AeroCool Rev
Our TOP opens - AeroCool Rev. This is a 120mm inexpensive fan with red, green or blue backlighting that will give your computer case an original appearance. The fan is connected via a 3-pin connector, which allows you to control the voltage and rotation speed from the BIOS. For more precise direction of the air flow, the speed of which can reach 1200 rpm, the impeller of this cooler uses 11 blades. Rotation is ensured by a hydrodynamic sliding bearing designed for 60 thousand hours of operation. And at the points of attachment to the case there are soft pads that absorb and suppress vibration that occurs during fan operation. It is important to know that the AeroCool Rev, due to the presence of backlighting, has a rather thick frame, so the blades are shorter than those of regular cheap fans, which in turn affects the air flow. The noise level of its operation does not exceed 15.1 dB. And this is one of the best indicators among the heroes of our TOP. If you have a poorly ventilated, old case, and the hardware is hot, then I do not recommend buying such a cooler. Well, if there is plenty of space for installation, you want backlighting and quiet operation, then this cooler will suit you.
- Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 25 mm.
- 3 lighting options.
- Connector: 3-pin.
- Speed: 1200 rpm.
- Start. voltage: 7 V.
- Nom. voltage: 12 V.
- Nom. current: 0.4 A.
- Consumption power: 4.8 W.
- Airflow: 41.3 CFM.
- Noise level: 15.1 dBA.
- Hydrodynamic p/sh.
- Operating life: 60,000 hours.
How to choose the best fan for a computer case: a guide for buyers
Price is not the main criterion when choosing a high-quality cooling system for a computer case. And among the inexpensive models, you can choose a quite decent device with normal performance and fairly high power, so do not rush to buy a more expensive fan in the hope of higher quality. To begin with, we advise you to find out what you should pay attention to when choosing a suitable cooler or fan, and only after that go to the store for a suitable model.
- Number of fans. The more fans in the cooler, the better cooling you can achieve even when the device is operating at low and medium power. Although, if you use your computer for work or study for no more than 2-4 hours at a time, a simple fan with one impeller will be enough for you.
More fans in the cooler provide better cooling - Outlet pipe diameter . The diameter of the impeller (fan diameter) affects the power and resistance of the air flow. In the simplest models, this figure is usually 80 mm, but most case fans have a standard size of 120 mm. In expensive systems, the impeller diameter can be up to 140 mm - such devices are the most effective and fully cope with their task, even if you work or play on the computer all day.
- Maximum speed . The cooling power depends on how many revolutions the fan blades can make in one minute. In good systems, this figure is at least 1500 rpm. If you want higher power, choose models with at least 1800-2000 rpm.
- CFM . This indicator means the length of the air stream that the fan is capable of generating (the larger it is, the better the cooling system works). If you want to reduce the temperature inside the case by 8-10°, preference should be given to models with a CFM rating of at least 50.
- Backlight . Although this option is additional, its presence makes the use of the device more attractive and functional, especially since in the price segment up to 1 thousand rubles there are many fans equipped with LEDs. Before purchasing, check whether the selected model is capable of synchronizing with your motherboard.
- Subassembly type . All models of computer case fans use two types of bearings: plain bearings and hydrodynamic bearings, in which the pressure force is partially compensated by liquid. Both types, in principle, are quite productive, but models with hydrodynamic (hydraulic) systems are more durable and reliable in operation, so they have a higher cost.
- Maximum noise . This is an important parameter if you spend quite a long time at the computer every day. To avoid humming and buzzing during operation, also pay attention to the presence of anti-vibration rubberized pads.
A computer fan should be as quiet as possible.
A useful option in case fans is the presence of a removable impeller. This is the name of the plastic cover that protects the blades from damage and contamination. The presence of a removable impeller allows you to quickly remove dust accumulated on the blades and prevent premature failure of the device.
Video - Choosing a fan for a computer case
A fan is an important element of the cooling system for a computer and its components. Now you know how to choose a really high-quality fan for your case, what you should pay attention to when buying, and which functions will be truly useful and which ones you shouldn’t overpay for.
Arctic ARCTIC F12
Arctic ARCTIC F12 is an inexpensive and efficient 120mm cooler. It is capable of automatically adjusting the speed level, selecting the necessary solution for the current needs of the system, which allows you to maintain the internal climate within acceptable values. The rotation speed of the ARCTIC F12 fan can range from 380 to 1350 rpm, and it varies depending on the readings of the temperature sensor. The air flow at the maximum rotation speed of the ARCTIC F12 can reach 57 CFM, which is quite a lot. The noise level of this cooler is not very high, but this fan cannot be called quiet either. It all depends on the rotation speed, and the average value is 24.4 dB. And, as the owners note, low-frequency tapping is heard during operation. It is barely distinguishable, but in complete silence it is still audible. Nevertheless, this cooler is very popular. Firstly, for its low cost, and secondly for the durability that the hydrodynamic bearing provides it. Plus the manufacturer provides a 6-year warranty. So you can be sure that such a cooler will serve you faithfully for many years.
- Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 25 mm.
- Connectors: 3-pin.
- Speed: 1350 rpm.
- Nom. voltage: 12 V.
- Nom. current: 0.24 A.
- Consumption power: 4.8 W.
- Airflow: 57 CFM.
- Noise level: 24.4 dBA.
- Hydrodynamic p/sh.
- Warranty: 6 years.
Arctic P12 PWM PST
Next in our rating of the best coolers for a PC case is the 120 mm Arctic P12 PWM PST. It has only 5 blades, but they have a highly curved shape, so they make virtually no noise and provide effective cooling. Thanks to the 4-pin connector, the rotation speed of this cooler can be adjusted over a wide range using PWM. The minimum number of revolutions per minute made by this fan is 200, and the maximum is 1800, at which the CFM reaches a value of 56.3. As for the noise level emitted by this fan, it does not exceed 22.5 dB. Also, this fan is notable for its hydrodynamic bearing with an increased service life, which reaches 60 thousand hours. There are a lot of positive reviews about it online. Owners like it for its efficiency, quiet operation, reliability and low cost. So, if you are looking for an inexpensive, high-quality and reliable cooler, then you should pay attention to this model.
- Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 25 mm.
- Connectors: 4-pin.
- Speed: 200 - 1800 rpm.
- Nom. voltage: 12 V.
- Airflow: 56.3 CFM.
- Noise level: 22.5 dBA.
- Hydrodynamic p/sh.
2.4. Magnetic centered fan
In a magnetically centered design, the shaft
rests on the cap and
is held
in place
by magnets
, so the weight of the impeller puts less wear on the bearing. The magnetic field pulls the shaft down, reducing its vibrations, and allows the fan to be installed at any angle. There are no washers and rings, fewer rubbing parts, so it is more durable compared to previous models and does not require lubrication.
Rice. 9. Magnetic centering fan design
| Bearing type | Noise | Resource (hours) | Position | Price |
| Slip | Short | 35 000 | Horizontal | Low |
| Hydrodynamic | Short | 80 000 | Any | Average |
| Rolling | Average | 90 000 | Any | Average |
| Magnetic centering | Short | 150 000 | Any | High |
Noctua NF-F12 PWM
Noctua NF-F12 PWM is a 120mm cooler designed specifically for cooling radiators. It has 7 long, flat blades that create good static pressure. And instead of the usual legs holding the stator, the cooler is equipped with 11 fixed blades, the task of which is to straighten and focus the air flow, the value of which reaches 54.97 CFM. The power connector for this cooler is four-pin. And the rotation speed of the impeller is controlled using pulse-width modulation in the range from 300 to 1500 rpm. At the same time, up to 900 rpm you can’t hear the cooler operating at all. At 1200 rpm, an air flow becomes audible, but it does not in the least interfere with comfortable work at the computer. And in general, the noise level of this fan ranges from 18.6 to 22.4 dB, which is an excellent indicator. It is also worth noting that on both sides in the corners the fan is equipped with rubber pads for vibration isolation and has an extended cable. And its hydrodynamic bearing with magnetic stabilization, which is the pride of the manufacturer, is designed for a service life of 150 thousand hours and has a 6-year warranty. Owners of Noctua NF-F12 PWM are satisfied with the purchase of this cooler and note its quiet operation and efficient cooling. So, if you need a quiet, reliable and efficient fan, I recommend this model. But it’s worth considering that it will cost an order of magnitude higher than other coolers.
- Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 25 mm.
- Connectors: 4-pin PWM.
- Speed: 500 - 1500 rpm.
- Nom. voltage: 12 V.
- Airflow: 54.97 CFM.
- Noise level: up to 22.4 dBA.
- Hydrodynamic p/sh.
- Operating life: 150,000 hours.
- 6 year warranty.
2.2. Fan with rolling bearing
Rice.
6. Design of a fan with a rolling bearing Fans with rolling bearings (ball bearings) operate stably in any orientation
and wear less because rolling friction is less than sliding friction.
Rice. 7. Rolling bearing arrangement
Noctua NF-A14 PWM
Let's move on from 120mm coolers to 140mm ones. The Noctua NF-A14 PWM is primarily notable for its durability. It is provided by a proprietary self-stabilizing hydrodynamic bearing on a magnetic suspension, thanks to which the fan’s operating life is 150 thousand hours. So you can be sure that such a cooler will serve you for many years. In addition to reliability, it is worth noting the special shape of the blades of this fan, each of which has 3 notches. According to the manufacturer, thanks to them the air flow is better distributed and the pressure increases. The operating speed of this cooler can vary over a wide range, starting from 300 rpm. Moreover, up to 800 rpm it is almost silent. And at a maximum speed of 1500 rpm, the noise level does not exceed 24.6 dB. It is also worth noting that the device comes with silicone pads to reduce vibrations and a 30-centimeter cable that makes it easier to place the fan in the computer case. As for the reviews, the owners note an increased noise level at maximum speeds, but are generally satisfied with the performance of this cooler, noting its high efficiency in cooling the computer.
- Dimensions: 140 x 140 x 25 mm.
- Connectors: 4-pin PWM.
- Speed: 500 - 1500 rpm.
- Nom. voltage: 12 V.
- Airflow: 82.52 CFM.
- Noise level: up to 24.6 dBA.
- Hydrodynamic p/sh.
- Operating life: 150,000 hours.
- 6 year warranty.
2.1. Fan with plain bearing
Rice.
3. Fan design with a plain bearing The plain bearing consists of a cylindrical housing into which a sleeve made of antifriction material is inserted. The shaft rotates inside the bushing. The shaft is separated from the bushing by a gap filled with lubricant.
Rice. 4. Sliding bearing arrangement
A small distance between the shaft and the bushing and/or lack of lubrication increases friction, which makes the fan difficult to start, increases wear , energy consumption and noise
.
If the gap is increased, the shaft will begin to oscillate
.
Rice.
5. Illustration of shaft vibration inside a bearing When the fan is in a vertical position, the pressure of the shaft on the bushing varies at different points. Over time, the shaft deforms the sleeve hole - it becomes oval. Shaft vibrations increase and noise increases. Fans with plain bearings are best used in a horizontal position
so that the pressure of the shaft on the bushing is uniform.
Arctic P14 PWM
Our rating ends with the Arctic P14 PWM. This is a high-performance, inexpensive 140mm cooler. It has 5 curved blades that produce focused airflow and high static pressure. The cooler is capable of automatically adjusting the speed level, selecting the desired value for a comfortable climate in the computer. The fan rotation speed can range from 200 to 1700 rpm, and it varies depending on the readings of the temperature sensor. As for the noise level, up to 1200 rpm, this cooler is practically inaudible, but closer to the maximum value it begins to hum. It is also worth noting that it does not come with rubber pads to reduce vibration. Nevertheless, this cooler is very popular. Firstly, for its low cost, and secondly for the durability that the hydrodynamic bearing provides it. Plus the manufacturer provides a 10-year warranty. So you can be sure that such a cooler will serve you faithfully for many years.
- Dimensions: 140 x 140 x 27 mm.
- Connectors: 4-pin PWM.
- Speed: 200 - 1700 rpm.
- Nom. voltage: 12 V.
- Nom. current: 0.12 A.
- Airflow: 72.8 CFM.
- Hydrodynamic p/sh.
- Cable length: 40 cm.
- Warranty: 10 years.
