Noctua unveiled two new tower-type (U-type in Noctua-speak) CPU cooler prototypes, based on a new asymmetric design, which creates additional clearance over the memory slots area in a conventional motherboard. The 120 mm version is based on the NH-U12S, with heat pipes bent in a way that pushes the fin-stack a little off-center from the base; creating headroom for memory modules. The 140 mm version features a similar design, and is derived from the NH-U14S.

The 120 mm version offers 50% more surface area for heat dissipation than the NH-U12S; while the 140 mm version offer 30% more surface area than the NH-U14S. Both coolers, offer 100% clearance for memory modules. The 140 mm version has the fin-stack slanted away from not just the memory modules, but also the expansion slots, so the cooler doesn't eat into the topmost PCI-Express slot of your motherboard. Both coolers will feature next-generation 120 mm and 140 mm fans by the company.