Noctua NV-FS1 Review: A PC Fan Maker’s Quiet Desk Fan Set
Noctua's NV-FS1 pairs the NF-A12x25 120mm fan with an airflow amplifier, a pivoting steel mount and a controller that runs from full power to near silence.
The Noctua NV-FS1 Desk Fan Set is a desk and multi-purpose fan set built around Noctua’s NF-A12x25 120mm fan, with an airflow amplifier, a pivoting steel mount and a variable speed controller. For more models, see our Personal & Desk Fans page.
Our Verdict
The NV-FS1 is the fan for people who care most about low noise and build quality. Noctua’s controller lets you turn it down to near silence for calls and recording, and the steel mount can sit on a desk or attach with magnets, screws or zip-ties.
It costs far more than a typical desk fan and it does not oscillate. The technical, PC-parts look will not suit every room, and buyers who just want a cheap breeze will get more airflow for the money elsewhere.
Noctua NV-FS1 Desk Fan Set
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Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Noctua |
| Model | NV-FS1 |
| Fan | NF-A12x25 120mm |
| Amplifier | NV-AA1 |
| Controller | NA-FC1, variable speed |
| Mount | Steel, pivoting, magnets or screws |
| Power | 230/115V supply with US, EU, UK plugs |
| Cable | 2.85m total |
| Weight | About 1.65 pounds |
Design
The heart of the set is the NF-A12x25, a 120mm fan Noctua is known for among PC builders, paired with the NV-AA1 airflow amplifier that focuses the air into a stronger stream. A pre-installed NA-FG1 grill adds safety.
The NV-FM1 mount is made from steel and pivots for angle adjustments. It can be fixed with its integrated magnets, with screws or with zip-ties, and the screws, wall plugs and zip-ties are included, so the fan can also cool a shelf, a device cabinet or a room.
Controls
A compact NA-FC1 controller sets the speed from maximum airflow down to near-silent operation, which gives you finer control than the two or three steps of most desk fans.
The NV-PS1 power supply runs on 230/115V and comes with plug adaptors for EU, US and UK sockets, and an NV-EC4 1m extension cable gives a combined total cable length of 2.85m.
Placement Tips
Put a personal fan close to you, within a few feet, and aim it at your face, neck or upper body. Moving air cools you by speeding up evaporation from your skin, so the breeze has to reach you to work. On a desk, angle it slightly upward; on a nightstand, aim it across the pillow rather than straight at your face.
A fan does not lower the room temperature, so switch it off when you leave. In a warm room, pairing a desk fan with your air conditioner lets you set the thermostat a little higher and still feel comfortable.
Running Costs and Care
Personal fans use very little power. A USB or rechargeable fan draws only a few watts, and even a plug-in table fan uses a small fraction of what an air conditioner needs, so running costs are minimal.
Wipe dust from the grille and blades every few weeks, since a dusty fan moves less air and makes more noise. For battery fans, avoid leaving them fully drained for long periods, and charge them before storing them for the winter.
How It Compares
Against the THRRLY Dual-Head Monitor Clip Fan, the Noctua is far quieter and better built, while the THRRLY clamps to a monitor, runs on USB and costs a fraction of the price.
Against the Vornado 460, the Noctua is quieter and more flexible to mount, while the Vornado circulates a whole room and has simpler controls.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very quiet at low speed | Expensive for a desk fan |
| Variable speed controller | No oscillation |
| Steel pivoting mount with magnets | Technical look |
| Premium Noctua fan | Less airflow than a 12 inch fan |
| Plug adaptors for US, EU and UK | No remote or timer |
Who Should Buy It
| Who Should Buy It? | Who Should Look Elsewhere? |
|---|---|
| Home offices | Budget buyers |
| Streamers and podcasters | People who want oscillation |
| PC enthusiasts | Anyone who needs to cool a whole room |
| People who want to mount a fan on a shelf | Buyers who want a remote |
For more options, see our picks for the best desk fans for office and the best quiet desk fans.
Final Verdict
The Noctua NV-FS1 Desk Fan Set is a premium, very quiet desk fan for offices and studios where noise matters more than price. You can check the current price and details for the Noctua NV-FS1 Desk Fan Set.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fan does the Noctua NV-FS1 use?
The NF-A12x25 120mm fan with the NV-AA1 airflow amplifier.
Can I adjust the speed?
Yes, the NA-FC1 controller runs from maximum airflow to near-silent operation.
How do I mount it?
The steel NV-FM1 mount uses magnets, screws or zip-ties, all included.
Does it work in the US?
Yes, the power supply includes plug adaptors for US, EU and UK sockets.
Does it oscillate?
No, it pivots manually but does not oscillate.

