Blacknoise NB-eLoop B12-PS & B12-P Bionic Loop Fans Review

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Nauman Siddique

At HI Digital I test and write about different hardware configurations to show other PC users what they can expect from their build. My end goal is to educate the masses to make the right decision when they are looking for new PC parts to buy

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The iF Product Design Award-winning Eloop design is a breakthrough in axial/diagonal fan technology. Unlike traditional fans, where airstream noise dominates, Blacknoise Bionic Fans tackle this issue with specially designed rotor blades that eliminate vortex formation. The result? Remarkably quieter fans with up to 30% less energy consumption, reflected in their low power draw of 0.95W and 0.08A. In this Noiseblocker NB Eloop review, I’ll dive into the innovative features and various versions of the 120x120x25mm and 140x140x29mm fan sizes, testing their shared technology and distinct specifications.

Key Takeaways

• The Noiseblocker NB Eloop is an award-winning axial/diagonal fan with a groundbreaking bionic rotor design, aiming for quieter operation and reduced energy consumption.
• The Noiseblocker NB Eloop is perfect for those who value overclocking, along with gamers who have a thing for energy efficiency.
• The Noiseblocker NB Eloop may not be ideal for users on a budget or those who desire any form of RGB.

Here’s what the specifications look like:

Unboxing

The fans come in a cardboard box of white and light gray colors. The packaging isn’t innovative, but it certainly isn’t bad!

Contents

The contents are:

• 8x NB Silicon mounts for vibration free installation
• 4x fine threaded screws and knurled nut for tool-free assembly
• 2x power cables

Closer Look

The bionic loop fan is the world’s first such design to feature a bionic frame and bionic rotors. Combination of these two with the SLI2 and position invariant magnetic bearings have enabled the NB to deliver a product which delivers the same or better performance level as can be had from the axial fans but at much less noise level. The fans are modular as well. Unlike standard axial fans, these fans don’t have fixed connectors.

The noiseblocker nb eloop review fans are available in two sizes. Within each size, there are other versions with each having different specifications yet same design. The fans were released in the white color rotor but now black color edition is also available. Available sizes are: –

These fans come under their IT series of fans which are marketed for the PC users and the enthusiasts. We are reviewing the B12-PS and B12-P versions of the eLoop in 120mm category.

As both fans have same design and layout, we will be showing one in the pictures except where the difference is found.

We have a black color frame of the fans. Noiseblocker is calling this frame as the bionic deep sound frame. The frame is made of the reinforced fiberglass PBT material and build quality is top notch. There are no anti-vibration pads on the corners of the frame but NB-Slics have been provided in the accessories for this purpose.

The fan boasts Makrolon 6 solid blades in an elegant white hue, dubbed as bionic rotors by Noiseblocker. Crafted from top-notch synthetic material by Bayer with an anti-dust surface, the blades exhibit impressive build quality and rigidity, showing no signs of flex. The motor hub, approximately 40mm in diameter, features an embossed NB brand logo.

What sets the Noiseblocker NB Eloop apart is its unique rotor design, distinct from axial fans. The bionic loop fans have interconnected rotors, forming a single piece with a frame on their tip side. This design, with a white frame on the inner side, ensures straight airflow throughout the fan. The blades’ bottom edges sport raised curve lines, akin to Noctua’s focused flow approach, promoting efficient and quiet airflow.

Addressing the common noise issue caused by air stream across the border of the fan, the bionic frame and rotor design of the Noiseblocker NB Eloop effectively dissolve vortexes, resulting in reduced noise levels. Moreover, this innovative design allows the fan to deliver the same performance as axial fans with upto 30% less energy consumption.

The spacing between two mounting holes on any side is 104.8mm whereas each side from edge to edge is 120mm. The frame is designed as such that the mounting holes have raised surface. There is a gap between the corners and the fan’s inner frame.

The gap is covered with the rubber inserts. NB is printed on their top. Two rubber inserts face each other on the inner side of the frame to give the better overall look and feel to the fans. They give the impression of a uni-body on the first look at the fan.

The outer frame of the fan has hexagonally shaped boxes forming a pattern around the corners and in the middle of the frame. The top side of the outer frame has Noiseblocker brand name and logo embossed on it. 

The Noiseblocker NB Eloop fans showcase a modular design, deviating from the traditional fixed or permanent power cables. Instead, they feature a 4-pin PWM connector attached to a short cable with four wires, offering flexibility without braiding.

In terms of connectivity, Noiseblocker includes two 4-pin PWM cables with the fan. One cable measures 500mm in length, while the other is shorter at 200mm. This considerate provision ensures a comprehensive solution for cable management, catering to various setup needs.

Flipping the fan reveals a white sticker covering the motor hub, proudly displaying the essentials: 12V, Noiseblocker brand name, logo, and NB-eLoop model. The bionic frame, sporting a unique waveform pattern in the arms, adds a touch of innovation. The 4 wires are neatly routed on one arm, showcasing a thoughtful design. The overall build quality is top-notch, exuding solidity.

Blacknoise employs the NB-Nano SLI2 position invariant magnetic bearing, akin to Corsair ML series fans. Though specific details on these bearings are scarce, the fans boast the NB-EKA P2 motor. Noiseblocker sweetens the deal with 8 Silicone NB-Slics, acting as rubber mounts for installation. These additions aim not only to dampen vibrations at the fan-surface contact point but also between the screw and the fan.

In the realm of performance, the bionic loop fan stands out for its versatility. Whether on CPU air coolers, radiators, or as a general airflow component, it seamlessly integrates. The synchronized dance of the bionic frame, bionic loop rotor, and magnetic bearing ensures a performance that competes with axial fans, all while maintaining a hushed operation. Noiseblocker’s thoughtful design eliminates virtual noises by strategically adding space between the fan and the surface.

Testing

Much thanks to the Blacknoise for sending us 3 fans in each category which has enabled us to test them on Alphacool Eisbaer 360, a 360mm CLC. It is a standard on my test bench that I check the fan for thermal performance even if they are rated for higher airflow than static pressure ones. The NB-eLoop B12-PS and B12-P are tested against the NB-BlackSlientFan XL-P and the Alphacool Eiswind 12 fans.

My testing consists of three areas. I have checked the airflow on each of the profiles. Next, the PWM range of the fan, along with airflow reading against each point of the speed, was checked. Next, the thermal performance of the fans at 50% and 100% of their rated speeds were checked along with the acoustics. I have used the Reeven Polariz fan controller for the testing.

Airflow Testing

In our first testing we, try to validate the stated/rated airflow value by the manufacturer. The rated airflow value of B12-PS is 58.1 CFM at full speed. In my testing, the airflow value comes to the 64.25 CFM validating the rated airflow value. The rated airflow value for B12-P is 77.9 CFM. The tested value is 89.90 CFM.

PWM Range

Next up, is the PWM range of the fan and the corresponding airflow values.

Thermal Testing

Thermal performance of the fan was tested on this test bench:

• Intel i7 6850k
• Asus Rampage V Edition 10
• Ballistix Elite 4x4GB @ 3000MHz
• Alphacool Eisbaer 360
• Samsung 840 EVO 250GB
• Corsair AX 1200i

I conducted the testing on my trusty Windows 10 x64 Professional edition (build version 1709), using Noctua NT-H1 thermal paste to ensure accurate results. The fans were put through their paces at 50% and 100% speed, with the CLC pump running at full throttle. Asus RealBench v1.44 took care of stressing the CPU, while RealTemp kept a close eye on temperature changes.

First, I ran the stress test at the stock clocks of 3.6GHz with turbo boost up to 4.0GHz at 1.16V VCore. XMP was consistently loaded. The reported temperatures are in delta values, calculated by subtracting the average of each core’s maximum temperature from the ambient temperature, providing a comprehensive view under varying conditions.

Next, I pushed the chip to its limits with an overclock to 4.3GHz at 1.350V VCore, still keeping XMP loaded. The stress test was repeated using the same approach, and the delta temperatures were recorded. The results showcased the fans’ performance under different scenarios, giving insights into their cooling capabilities.

Results

Here’s what the results say:

Acoustics

Noise levels, as per the Fonseo Digital Sound meter, are extremely good on B12-P with just 20.8 dB(A) at 100% speed and 28 dB(A) for the B12-P. Clearly, Noiseblocker has done a marvelous job of providing almost the same level of performance yet with silent operations.

Should You Buy It?

With all that testing in mind, what can we conclude?

Buy It If:

✅ You want an energy-efficient fan: Gamers valuing efficiency in terms of energy and electricity would appreciate this fan’s technology.

✅ Versatility is a need: Those in need of versatile fans suitable for various applications, including CPU coolers, radiators, and general airflow needs would be overjoyed to get themselves one of these.

Don’t Buy It If:

❌ RGB is a necessity: For users that prioritize good RGB lighting for their setups, this fan’s advantages might not be enough.

❌ You’re on a tight budget: While the fan certainly has the qualities to justify the expense, users on a budget can make do just fine with cheaper alternatives.

Conclusion

The NB-eLoop B12-PS and B12-P, winners of the 2013 iF Product Design Award, are top-of-the-line, whisper-quiet fans designed for enthusiasts who prioritize exceptional performance with minimal noise. Available in two sizes, 120x120x25mm and 140x140x29mm, and various versions within each size, these fans are incredibly versatile. They are perfect for CPU coolers, radiators, and improving overall airflow.

Their cutting-edge bionic frame and loop rotor design effectively minimize airstream noise, and the advanced NB-Nano SLI2 bearings ensure virtually silent operation. The fans also feature a modular design, including a 4-pin PWM connector and two sleeved power cables (200mm and 500mm), which aids in neat cable management.

Backed by a 6-year warranty, these fans are not only durable but also perform excellently. The addition of 8 silicon Slics provides anti-vibration properties, enhancing the quietness of your setup. Thanks to Noiseblocker’s ingenious design and the aerodynamically optimized loop rotor, these fans deliver superior cooling capabilities at remarkably low noise levels, making them an excellent choice for any computer build.

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Nauman Siddique

[How-To Guides Expert]

Laiba, our tech guru at HI Digital, simplifies and crafts How-To Guides with a Google IT Support Certificate. Beyond tech, she captures the city’s aesthetics through her lens. Join her journey where tech meets creativity!

Get In Touch: Laiba@hidgt.com