Need Advice on Creating an Effective Fan Curve for New Build

[brandonj26]

Hey all,
I just finished building my new PC and I’m trying to fine-tune the fan curve to keep CPU thermals stable and avoid any thermal throttling during heavier workloads. Noise isn’t my top concern — my main goal is ensuring consistent cooling and better thermal performance.

Here are my system specs:

 

• Motherboard: MSI X870e

• CPU: Ryzen 9 9950X3D

• RAM: 64GB DDR5

• Case: Fractal Design North (Non XL) (Mesh side panel) 

• Case Fans:

  • 2x Noctua NF-A14 PWM (intake, front-mounted)

  • 1x Noctua 120mm (exhaust, rear-mounted)

• CPU Cooler: Noctua NH-D15 chromax.Black (Dual 140mm fans)

Current fan curve (applied to all fans):

• 30°C = 20%

• 45°C = 50%

• 65°C = 75%

• 80°C = 100%

Right now, it idles around 42-44°C, and during light to moderate workloads it hovers between 44-55°C.
When testing in After Effects, the CPU peaked at 81°C.

It didn’t throttle, but I’m aiming to bring those temps down and keep them more stable under load.

I’m thinking the current fan curve could use some adjustments, maybe a higher baseline for the case fans, or a steeper ramp earlier on.

For those with experience using Noctua fans and big air coolers like the NH-D15, what would you suggest for:

• A more thermally efficient fan curve

• Possibly separating CPU and case fan curves for better airflow

• Any other tips to keep this system running cooler

Would really appreciate any advice, sample fan curves, or tuning tips.

Thanks in advance!

[CommanderAlex]

What case is it currently mounted in? 

 

I would run the CPU fan at 100% at 70^oC or 75^oC. I would move 65^oC down to 60^oC at 75%. Depending on case size, I'd try and get another fan for intake. 

[brandonj26]

3 minutes ago, CommanderAlex said:

What case is it currently mounted in? 

 

I would run the CPU fan at 100% at 70^oC or 75^oC. I would move 65^oC down to 60^oC at 75%. Depending on case size, I'd try and get another fan for intake. 

Case: Fractal Design North with mesh side panel (Non XL) 

I have 2 front 140mm Noctua NF-A14 PWM intake fans which is the max it will hold. 

[CommanderAlex]

1 minute ago, brandonj26 said:

Case: Fractal Design North with mesh side panel (Non XL) 

I have 2 front 140mm Noctua NF-A14 PWM intake fans which is the max it will hold. 

Ok yeah that case appears to be good. I would just turn the temp targets down to achieve max airflow going through the case during workloads. 

[Mihle]

In general, chips with X3D extra cache will run hotter than those without. Those temps looks fine to me. I don't think you should try to get them lower.