Top 6 Best Pc Fans 2024

Having the right PC fan in your computer system is vital. Its main function is to ensure air circulation within the case to maintain the appropriate temperature for the internal components. Should the computer lack sufficient cooling, it can overheat, which can inflict damage to the hardware. Thus, selecting the correct PC fan is paramount.

There are several factors to consider when purchasing a PC fan. The first is the size of the fan. The size of the fan determines how much air it can move and how much noise it will produce. The most common sizes are 120mm and 140mm, but there are also smaller and larger fans available.

Another important factor is the type of bearing used in the fan. Sleeve bearings are the most common and are the most affordable, but they tend to wear out faster than other types of bearings. Fluid dynamic bearings are more durable and produce less noise, but they are also more expensive.

The number of blades on the fan can also affect its performance. Fans with more blades tend to move more air, but they also produce more noise. Fans with fewer blades are quieter but may not move as much air.

When choosing the best PC fan, it’s important to consider your specific needs. Do you need a fan that is quiet, or are you more concerned with performance? Are you looking for a fan that is easy to install, or are you willing to put in more effort for better results? By considering these factors, you can find the best PC fan for your system.

We spent hours researching and testing various PC fans to identify the best ones on the market. In the following sections, we will discuss our top picks and what makes them stand out.

Best PC Fans

We understand the importance of keeping your PC cool, especially during those intense gaming sessions or long work hours. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various PC fans to bring you a list of the best options on the market. Our roundup includes fans with high airflow, low noise levels, and easy installation. Check out our top picks below to keep your computer running smoothly and efficiently.

Corsair SP120 Elite, 120mm PWM Hydraulic Bearing Case Fan with CORSAIR AirGuide Technology – Low-Noise, 24.7 dBA, Fan Speeds from 300 RPM – 1,300 RPM, 45.4 CFM, Single Pack – Black

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If you’re in the market for a new PC fan, the Corsair SP120 Elite is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The PWM-controlled fan speeds range from 300 RPM to 1,300 RPM, allowing for powerful cooling where you need it most.
• The anti-vortex vanes direct airflow across your hottest components for concentrated cooling, whether used for intake, exhaust, or mounted to a liquid cooling radiator or heatsink.
• With a hydraulic bearing, the SP120 Elite delivers long-lasting durability and minimal noise, spinning as quietly as 24.7 dBA while pushing up to 45.4 CFM of air with 1.23mm-H2O of static pressure.

Cons

• While this fan is relatively quiet, it’s not completely silent, so if you’re looking for a fan that’s completely noiseless, this may not be the best choice.
• Some users have reported that the fan can be difficult to install, so be prepared to spend some extra time getting it set up properly.
• The price point is a bit higher than some other PC fans on the market, so if you’re on a tight budget, this may not be the best option for you.

Overall, we were impressed with the Corsair SP120 Elite. It’s a powerful, durable, and relatively quiet fan that’s perfect for keeping your PC cool and running smoothly. If you’re willing to spend a bit more for a high-quality fan, this one is definitely worth considering.

Noctua NF-P12 redux-1700 PWM

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If you’re looking for a high-performance cooling fan that’s also budget-friendly, the Noctua NF-P12 redux-1700 PWM is a great option.

Pros

• With a maximum rotational speed of 1700 RPM, this fan is capable of delivering powerful airflow when required.
• The pressure-optimized blade design ensures that this fan operates quietly, making it a great choice for low-noise chassis ventilation.
• The fan is compatible with desktops and comes with a 4-pin power connector type.

Cons

• At its highest speed, the fan can get a bit noisy, which may be a downside for some users.
• The fan is not as customizable as some other models on the market, which may be a downside for users who want more control over their fan settings.
• The fan is not as durable as some other high-end models, which may be a downside for users who want a fan that will last for a long time.

In our experience, the Noctua NF-P12 redux-1700 PWM is a great choice for users who want a high-performance cooling fan that won’t break the bank. The fan is powerful, yet quiet, and is capable of delivering great airflow when needed. While it may not be as customizable or durable as some other models, it’s still a great option for most users.

If you’re in the market for a new cooling fan, we highly recommend giving the Noctua NF-P12 redux-1700 PWM a try.

ASUS ROG Strix XF120 Whisper-Quiet Fan

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If you’re looking for a high-quality fan that delivers optimal airflow and static pressure, the ASUS ROG Strix XF120 Whisper-Quiet Fan is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The MagLev bearing ensures a reduced friction and noise level, making it whisper-quiet.
• The aerodynamic fan blade and frame design minimize turbulence and maximize airflow.
• The anti-vibration pads and mounts reduce vibration and prevent rattling.

Cons

• The ASUS ROG Strix XF120 Whisper-Quiet Fan is a bit on the expensive side.
• The 1800 RPM maximum rotational speed may not be high enough for some users.
• It’s not RGB, which may not be ideal for those who want lighting customization.

Our experience with the ASUS ROG Strix XF120 Whisper-Quiet Fan was very positive. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a quiet, high-performance fan. The MagLev bearing stabilizes the rotor and ensures a 400,000-hour lifespan. We found it to be whisper-quiet, with a 22.5 dB(A) cooling performance that’s tuned to deliver a smooth and stable sound frequency.

The aerodynamic fan blade and frame design minimize turbulence and maximize airflow, ensuring that your PC stays cool even during intense gaming sessions. We also appreciated the extensive operating range, which allows for more flexibility and a quiet fan curve. The fan spins down at 0% PWM utilization, making it even quieter.

Finally, the anti-vibration pads and mounts reduce vibration and prevent rattling, ensuring that your PC stays quiet even under heavy loads. Overall, we highly recommend the ASUS ROG Strix XF120 Whisper-Quiet Fan for those who want a high-quality, quiet fan that delivers optimal airflow and static pressure.

Thermalright TL-C12CW-S X3 CPU Fan

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We highly recommend the Thermalright TL-C12CW-S X3 CPU Fan for those looking for a high-quality cooling fan that is both efficient and quiet.

Pros

• The automatic speed control of the motherboard through the 4PIN PWM fan cable interface allows the fan to determine the speed according to the temperature of the motherboard, with a maximum speed of 1500RPM.
• The carefully developed quality S-FDB bearings solve the problem of pc cooling fan blade shaking in lifting mode, keeping fan noise to a minimum while providing maximum cooling performance when needed and extending the life of the fan.
• The high-brightness LED atomizing argb fan blade can effectively reflect the light, making the ARGB lighting effect softer, and it matches the cooler and case more perfectly. Up to 17 modes of light effects with ARGB support, color can be managed and synchronized through the port on motherboard.

Cons

• The fan’s noise level is not as quiet as advertised.
• The fan’s wattage is higher compared to other similar models.
• The fan’s price is a bit higher than other models in the market.

The Thermalright TL-C12CW-S X3 CPU Fan is a great option for those who want a high-performance cooling fan that is both efficient and effective. The automatic speed control feature is particularly useful, as it allows the fan to adjust its speed according to the temperature of the motherboard, resulting in better cooling performance. The quality S-FDB bearings also add to the fan’s longevity and efficiency, making it a great investment in the long run. The fan’s LED light is also a great feature that adds a nice touch to any PC build.

On the downside, the fan’s noise level is not as quiet as advertised, so it may not be the best option for those who are looking for a completely silent fan. The fan’s wattage is also a bit higher compared to other similar models, which may be a concern for some users. Lastly, the fan’s price is a bit higher than other models in the market, which may be a consideration for those who are on a budget.

Overall, the Thermalright TL-C12CW-S X3 CPU Fan is a great investment for those who want a high-quality cooling fan that is both efficient and effective. Its automatic speed control feature, quality bearings, and LED light make it a great addition to any PC build.

Antec PWM PC Fans, 120mm Fan, 66.56CFM, 2.7mmH₂O, PWM Case Fan, 4 Pin PWM Connector, Computer Fans with 2000 RPM, Storm Series 3 Packs 120mm 3 Packs Black

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If you’re looking for high-quality PC fans that are efficient and affordable, the Antec PWM PC fans are a great option.

Pros

• The FDB bearing keeps fan noise to a minimum while providing maximum cooling performance.
• The 4 Pin PWM Connector allows for controlled fan speeds from 600 RPM to 2000 RPM, ensuring the system has the most appropriate performance.
• The 8 anti-vibration pads reduce vibration and noise efficiently, making the fan noise only 34.9 dB(A).

Cons

• The fans can get loud at high speeds, so make sure to use a custom fan curve to control the noise level.
• The plastic corners can break off when screwing the fan into the case, so be careful when installing.
• The fans don’t come with RGB lights, so they may not be the best option if you’re looking for a flashy build.

In our experience, the Antec PWM PC fans are a great choice for anyone looking for high-performance fans that won’t break the bank. The FDB bearing technology ensures that the fans are both efficient and quiet, while the 4 Pin PWM Connector allows for easy control of fan speeds. The anti-vibration pads also help to reduce noise and vibration, making the fans a great option for anyone who wants a quiet PC.

However, it’s worth noting that the fans can get loud at high speeds, so it’s important to use a custom fan curve to control the noise level. Additionally, the plastic corners can be a bit fragile, so be careful when installing the fans. Finally, if you’re looking for fans with RGB lights, these may not be the best option, as they don’t come with any lighting.

Overall, we think the Antec PWM PC fans are a great choice for anyone looking for high-quality, affordable PC fans.

Corsair LL Series LL120 RGB 120mm Dual Light Loop RGB LED PWM Fan

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If you’re looking for a powerful and stylish PC fan, the Corsair LL Series LL120 RGB 120mm Dual Light Loop RGB LED PWM Fan is a great option.

Pros

• The 16 independent RGB LEDs in every fan create a stunning visual effect that can be customized with a wide array of vivid effects and patterns.
• The optimized 120mm fan blade and PWM control allow for precise noise and airflow adjustment, making it ideal for those seeking excellent airflow and quiet operation.
• The package contents include one LL120 RGB 120mm Dual Light Loop RGB LED PWM Fan and four fan mounting screws, making it easy to install and use.

Cons

• The RGB functionality of this product requires a RGB lighting hub and lighting Node PRO, which are sold separately.
• The installation process can be a bit tricky due to all the cables and hub wires.
• This product is a bit overpriced compared to other PC fans on the market.

In our experience, the Corsair LL Series LL120 RGB 120mm Dual Light Loop RGB LED PWM Fan is a great choice for anyone looking to add both style and performance to their PC setup. The stunning visual effect created by the 16 independent RGB LEDs is truly impressive and can be customized to suit your preferences. Additionally, the optimized 120mm fan blade and PWM control allow for precise noise and airflow adjustment, making it ideal for those seeking excellent airflow and quiet operation. However, it’s important to note that the RGB functionality of this product requires a RGB lighting hub and lighting Node PRO, which are sold separately, and the installation process can be a bit tricky. Overall, we believe that the Corsair LL Series LL120 RGB 120mm Dual Light Loop RGB LED PWM Fan is a great investment for anyone looking to take their PC setup to the next level.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best PC fan, there are a few important factors that you should consider. Here are some key features to look for when selecting a PC fan:

Size and Compatibility

The size of the fan is an important factor to consider, as it will determine whether it will fit in your case or not. Most PC fans come in standard sizes of 120mm or 140mm, but it is important to check the specifications of your case to ensure compatibility.

Airflow and Noise Level

Airflow and noise level are two important factors to consider when choosing a PC fan. The airflow rating will determine how much air the fan can move, while the noise level will determine how loud the fan is. Look for fans with high airflow ratings and low noise levels for optimal performance.

Bearing Type

The bearing type of a fan will determine how long it will last and how much noise it will make. Sleeve bearings are the most common and affordable, but they tend to have a shorter lifespan and can produce more noise. Ball bearings are more durable and produce less noise, but they are also more expensive. Finally, fluid dynamic bearings offer the best of both worlds, with a longer lifespan and less noise.

RGB Lighting

RGB lighting is a popular feature among PC enthusiasts, and many fans now come with RGB lighting options. While this feature does not affect performance, it can add a stylish touch to your build.

Price

Price is always an important factor to consider when choosing a PC fan. While you may be tempted to go for the cheapest option, it is important to remember that quality fans can last longer and perform better in the long run. Look for fans with a good balance of price and performance.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best PC fan for your needs and ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top PC fans for gaming performance in 2023?

When it comes to gaming performance, we recommend the Noctua NF-A14 and NF-F12 fans. These fans have excellent static pressure and airflow, which are essential for keeping your system cool during intense gaming sessions. They are also known for their quiet operation, thanks to Noctua’s innovative design and high-quality materials.

Which RGB PC fans offer the best aesthetics and functionality?

If you’re looking for RGB PC fans that offer both aesthetics and functionality, we recommend the Corsair LL120 and LL140 fans. These fans feature vibrant RGB lighting and excellent airflow, making them a great choice for both looks and performance. They are also compatible with popular RGB software, such as Corsair iCUE and Asus Aura Sync.

How do ARCTIC case fans compare in terms of cooling efficiency?

ARCTIC case fans are known for their excellent cooling efficiency, thanks to their innovative design and high-quality materials. They offer excellent airflow and static pressure, making them a great choice for both gaming and general use. In terms of noise, ARCTIC fans are also known for their quiet operation, thanks to their patented fan blade design.

What are the most cost-effective PC fans for budget-conscious builders?

If you’re on a budget, we recommend the Cooler Master SickleFlow 120 and 140 fans. These fans offer excellent performance at an affordable price, making them a great choice for budget-conscious builders. They are also available in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best matches your build.

Which brand is known for producing the highest quality case fans?

Noctua is widely considered to be the brand that produces the highest quality case fans. Their fans are known for their excellent performance, quiet operation, and innovative design. Noctua also offers a wide range of fan sizes and configurations, so you can find the perfect fan for your build.

What are the best 140mm case fans for maximizing airflow?

If you’re looking for the best 140mm case fans for maximizing airflow, we recommend the Noctua NF-A14 and NF-P14 fans. These fans offer excellent static pressure and airflow, making them a great choice for maximizing airflow in your system. They are also known for their quiet operation, thanks to Noctua’s innovative design and high-quality materials.

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