Let’s start off with noise performance from each cooler at 100% fan speed.
This is important as it sets the precedence for which coolers we expect to deliver the higher levels of performance based on the faster and louder fans. Assuming that their performance is efficient in comparison to their noise output levels, that is.
The chassis fans are disabled, all case panels are on, and the sound meter is placed 12 inches from the side of the Fractal chassis’ glass side panel – roughly where a desk user will be sat.
Coming in at 43dBA with its pair of 120mm fans at full speed, the Fera 5 Dual is reasonable in terms of noise performance, but not outstanding.
The cooler is undeniably audible with the fans pushing at 1800 RPM, but I would not call the noise level intrusive by any stretch.
Of course, there is that excellent PWM speed control range of the Fluctus 120 PWM fans that allow for strong noise tuning.
Dropping the fans to 85% speed – which actually registered as 1700 RPM through our motherboard header – got us to 40dBA noise output.
This puts the Fera 5 Dual about mid-table in terms of how close it can get to full fan speed whilst hitting 40dBA.