Optimal heat removal and maintaining overall system performance heavily rely on selecting the right case fan. When it comes to compact or Small Form Factor (SFF) builds, the 120mm case fan emerges as an ideal cooling hardware choice. Its balanced size offers a host of advantages, including efficient airflow and compatibility with various case types.
Without further ado, let’s take a comprehensive look at all the picks for the best 120mm case fan that you can get in 2023:
Last update on 2023-12-13
A notable advantage of the 120mm case fan is its ability to effectively cool system components while operating at lower noise levels compared to smaller fans. Therefore, 120mm fans are a sought-after option among gamers, PC builders, and enthusiasts alike.
Also Check:
Best 120mm Case Fans
Here are my top 5 picks for the best 120mm case fans:
- ARCTIC P12 SLIM PWM PST
- Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black.swap
- be quiet! Silent Wings Pro 4
- be quiet! Pure Wings 2
- Lian Li UNI FAN SL-INFINITY 120 RGB
ARCTIC P12 SLIM PWM PST
Best Budget 120mm Fan
Weight: 85g | Speed: 300 – 2100 RPM | Airflow: 42.1 CFM | RGB: No | Static Pressure: 1.45 mm H2O | Bearing: Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) | Noise Level: 0.3 Sone
Pros
- A slim design
- Six years warranty
- Reasonable price tag
- Good enough acoustics
Cons
- None
Introducing the ARCTIC P12 SLIM PWM PST, a revolutionary innovation that stands out for its remarkable slimness. With its sleek and slender design, this extraordinary fan is tailor-made for small form factor builds, providing an optimal solution to enhance airflow in even the most space-constrained environments. Not only does it excel as a case fan, but it also proves its versatility by effortlessly improving the performance of radiators and heatsinks. The uncommon performance in an ordinary price tag incited me to list ARCTIC P12 SLIM PWM PST as the best budget 120mm fan.
Undoubtedly, the signature feature of the ARCTIC P12 SLIM is its slim design. The 120mm case has a thickness of 15mm which is 10mm less than the standard case fan thickness. Despite the lower thickness, I did not see any structural flaws in the build of this case fan. One thing that captivated my attention was that this 120mm case fan comes with screws of custom lengths to fit it in places where ordinary screws will not help.
Looking at the formal specs of this case fan, the ARCTIC P12 SLIM has a speed range of 300 to 2100 RPMs. You can sync the speeds of all the fans with the PST feature that allows sharing the same PWM across all the fans. The rated airflow of this 7 blades fan is 42.1 CFM at max speed. While in my testing, I reached an airflow of 42 CFM at 2129 RPM while running the fan at its full potential.
ARCTIC claims they used special lubricants to reduce friction and vibration. This is the reason the ARCTIC P12 SLIM does not come with anti-vibration pads. Moving on, this 120mm case fan uses fluid dynamic bearings. Moreover, they mentioned that there is no startup jerk and fewer commutation vibrations with their newly developed motor. The noise output level is also acceptable, even at full speed.
Furthermore, the ARCTIC P12 SLIM features a zero RPM mode, which keeps the fan at a standstill, eliminating the noise. This feature is useful for a silent operation while in idle usage. You can throttle its speed when you require maximum performance. Additionally, the slim 120mm case fan provides a focused airflow that results in high static pressure.
What We Liked:
Among various good performance features at a moderate price tag, the thing that captivated my attention most is the sturdy, slim design of the ARCTIC P12 SLIM.
What We Disliked:
There is nothing really to complain about this budget-friendly case fan, but ARCTIC could have shown arrows for rotation direction that would have been helpful to new users.
Also Read: Best Budget PC Case
Who Is It For?
The ARCTIC P12 SLIM PWM PST is a pocket-friendly slim case fan that can fit your small form factor (SFF) builds without compromising significant performance.
What Makes The ARCTIC P12 SLIM PWM PST Best Budget 120mm Fan?
Undoubtedly, the reasonable price, on top of excellent features like the slim design and marvelous performance, makes the ARCTIC P12 SLIM PWM PST the best budget 120mm fan.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 10/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 7/10 |
Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black.swap
Best Radiator 120mm Fan
Specifications: Speed: 450 – 2000 RPM | Airflow: 102.1 CMH | RGB: No | Static Pressure: 2.34 mm H2O | Bearing: SSO2 | Noise Level: 22.6 dB
Pros
- Record tip clearance
- Six years warranty
- Best static pressure Fan
- Good enough acoustics
Cons
- A bit expensive
Step into the realm of cutting-edge fan design with Noctua. Renowned as a trailblazer in the industry, they have once again shattered expectations with their latest masterpiece: the Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black.swap. Having received titles and awards from several international hardware websites, this premium build 120mm fan is the best static pressure fan that you can get.
The key feature of the Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black.swap is its surprisingly small clearance between the rotating blades and fan case. With the use of their signature liquid-crystal polymer material, Noctua has achieved a record tip clearance of 0.5mm, which is truly a design wonder. This small clearance prevents air leaks and assists in opposing back pressure from resistance surfaces.
Moving on, let’s take a look at the standard specs of this cooling fan. You can set the rotational speed of the Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black.swap from 450 RPM to 2000 RPM. While at max speed, it can provide an airflow of 102.1 CMH with its 9 blades. The rated noise level of this fan is only 22.6 dB which is good enough to make this an excellent silent fan. Moreover, Nocuta is using SSO2 bearings in this premium 120mm fan which contains CNC milled bearing shell made entirely of Brass.
Furthermore, with its 9 blades and concentrated airflow, the Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black.swap features an excellent static pressure of 2.34 mm H2O, which makes it the best 120mm static pressure fan as well. With this high static pressure, this 120mm fan is suitable to be used in a radiator. Additionally, the fan blades have a raised surface towards the edges which ensures airflow acceleration and reduces vortex noise.
Lastly, the overall look of the Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black.swap is, as you can guess by the name, black. There are arrows on the fan frame, which indicate the rotation direction of blades and the flow direction of air. Although there are no RGBs, you still get some customization. The ant-vibration pads are available in different colors. You can select the anti-vibration pad color, which looks good to you with the overall black appearance of the fan blades and body.
What We Liked:
Although there are various commendable features this 120mm premium case fan has to offer, what fascinated me most is its surprising tip clearance of 0.5mm.
What We Disliked:
No doubt the performance specs of the Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black.swap is quite impressive. But some users may not be pleased with the high price tag the fan comes with.
Who Is It For?
The Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black.swap is ideal for use in radiator cooling because of its high static pressure and good airflow. Its high static pressure allows it to easily overcome obstructions offered by the radiator.
What Makes The Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black.swap Best 120mm Radiator Fan?
To overcome the resistance offered by the radiator, a cooling fan needs to have high static pressure along with good airflow. Fortunately, the Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black.swap is an excellent combination of both the airflow and static pressure, which makes it the best 120mm radiator fan.
| Performance: 10/10 | Value: 7/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Design: 8/10 |
be quiet! Silent Wings Pro 4
Best Silent 120mm Fan
Weight: 227g | Speed: 3000 RPM | Airflow: 83.9 CFM | RGB: No | Static Pressure: 5.31 mm H2O | Bearing: Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) | Noise Level: 36.9 dB
Pros
- Inaudible during operation
- Comes with warranty
- Innovative speed dial
- Premium build quality
Cons
- High price point
- Speed dial inconvenience
Introducing the mesmerizing Silent Wings fans, the top performers of be quiet!’s high-end fan series so far! These fans are the most advanced and successful fans due to their completely new design. You can see the company competing with the PC fans giants like Noctua and Phanteks by coupling their designs with advanced technology. The key feature of the be quiet! Silent Wings Pro 4 fan is, as apparent by name, their incredibly low noise output, which makes them the best silent 120mm fan.
Following the Noctua NF-A12x25 fan series, be quiet! also went for extremely low tip clearances to maintain high air pressure and concentrated airflow. As a result, the static pressure of the be quiet! Silent Wings Pro 4 is 5.31 mm H20. While the rated airflow at maximum speed is around 83.9 CFM. Surprisingly, I recorded an airflow of 106 CFM in my testing at the maximum PMW duty cycle. However, airflow reading depends on the distance between the fan and the anemometer used.
Speaking of rotational speeds, the maximum RPM the be quiet! Silent Wings Pro 4 can reach 3000 RPM. I was able to reach the same in my testing. Additionally, to ensure smooth rotation and low noise level, the fan series uses fluid dynamic bearings and anti-vibration pads. Another signature feature of this high-end 120mm case fan series is the speed switch, which lets you choose between 3-speed configurations. However, the idea of a speed dial did not fascinate me, as reaching the speed dial on the fan can be inconvenient after its installation.
Moving on, as the name suggests, the key feature of the high-end be quiet! Silent Wings Pro 4 case fan is its silent operation. The rated maximum noise output is 36.9 dB at 100% PMW duty cycle, which is impressive. In my testing, I could not hear any significant noise output.
This high-end fan series’s aesthetics and build quality are as impressive as its performance. Featuring a total of 9 patterned blades for optimized airflow, the be quiet! Silent Wings Pro 4 is covered in an aggressive black appearance. Although you do not see RGBs in this case, fan, it still offers decent looks and feels.
What We Liked:
Undoubtedly, the highly silent operation at the impressive high-end performance fascinated me most in the be quiet! Silent Wings Pro 4.
Also Read: Best Quiet PC Case
What We Disliked:
Although the idea of the speed dial is innovative, reaching the speed dial can be inconvenient once the fan is installed on a radiator or any other component.
Who Is It For?
The be quiet! Silent Wings Pro 4 fan is a complete package of high-end performance along with surprisingly low noise output. It is a worth-it investment for anyone who is looking for silent operation from a fan without compromising performance.
What Makes The be quiet! Silent Wings Pro 4 Best Silent 120mm Fan?
Among a plethora of high-end performance specs, the feature that sets apart the be quiet! Silent Wings Pro 4 fan is a low noise output even at 3000RPM. Therefore, the uncommon silent operation of this high-end fan distinguishes this fan from its competitors and crowns it as the best silent 120mm fan.
| Performance: 8/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 7/10 |
be quiet! Pure Wings 2
Best 120mm Fan Under 10 Dollars
Weight: 130g | Speed: 1500 RPM | Airflow: 51.4 CFM | RGB: No | Static Pressure: 1.25 mm H2O | Bearing: Rifle Bearing | Noise Level: 19.2 dB
Pros
- Budget-friendly option
- Good overall looks
- Decent build quality
- Good enough acoustics
Cons
- None
Not everyone is willing to spend a lot on cooling fans, especially when they have finished spending piles on their high-end build. For such users, be quiet! offers an adequate cooling fan for your high-end build for just under 10 USD. The be quiet! Pure Wings 2 can fulfill your cooling requirements while being light on the pocket. Undoubtedly, this 120mm case fan qualifies as the best 120mm fan under 10 dollars due to its remarkable price point.
Since be quiet! Pure Wings 2 is a budget option; it is optimized to have a longer lifespan and consistent performance. The 120mm budget fan uses rifle-bearing technology that provides a rated life of around 80,000 hours. Other specifications like airflow and blade speed are decent enough to provide adequate cooling.
Speaking of airflow, the maximum air the be quiet! Pure Wings 2 can move around at 51.4 CFM while operating at the full speed of 1500 RPM. However, these performance specs do not match the specs of a high-end cooling fan but are still decent at the given price point. Additionally, just like every other be quite! product, the Pure Wings 2 also has a significantly low noise level of 19.2 dB while operating at 100% PMW duty cycle.
Furthermore, the be quiet! Pure Wings 2 features 9 surface-optimized fan blades, just like the be quiet! Silent Wings Pro series. The patterned fan blades enhance effective cooling while exerting a static pressure of 1.25 mm H20. Additionally, the aggressive black fan blades also enhance the looks of this 120mm fan along with the orange logo of be quiet!
What We Liked:
At the given price point, be quiet! Pure Wings 2 is a complete package of decent performance and looks. However, the thing that fascinates me most is the extended life of this pocket-friendly 120mm fan by the use of rifle-bearing technology.
What We Disliked:
This light-budget 120mm fan has everything you can ask for in the given price tag. So, there are no noticeable downsides to this fan.
Who Is It For?
Coming at a very reasonable price, the be quiet! Pure Wings 2 is a top pick for users who want a decent performance without spending piles on a cooling fan.
What Makes be quiet! Pure Wings 2 Best 120mm Fan Under 10 Dollars?
The unmatched performance, build quality, and an extended lifetime under 10 USD are the salient features that set apart this 120mm fan from its competitors. These key features led me to crown the be quiet! Pure Wings 2 is the award of the best 120mm fan under 10 dollars.
| Performance: 7/10 | Value: 10/10 |
| Features: 7/10 | Design: 8/10 |
Lian Li UNI FAN SL-INFINITY 120 RGB
Best 120mm RGB Fan
Speed: 200 – 2100 RPM | Airflow: 61.3 CFM | RGB: Yes | Static Pressure: 2.66 mm H2O | Bearing: Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB) | Noise Level: 29 dB
Pros
- Excellent RGB looks
- Neat multi-fan connectivity
- Decent build quality
- Highly customizable RGB
Cons
- High price point
- Little noisy sometimes
Lian li is not a new name in the realm of PC hardware. However, it is the only renovator in the market that has coupled stunning RGB looks with decent performance in a cooling fan. Such a fascinating fan is Lian Li UNI FAN SL-INFINITY, made especially for RGB lovers. Its stunning RGB lighting effect, along with the signature infinity mirror glow of Lian Li fans, is the reason this fan rules as the best 120mm RGB fan.
Unsurprisingly, this fan is known for its stunning looks and aesthetics. So, let’s take a look at what makes it the best RGB fan. The first feature that captivated my attention is undoubtedly this fan’s infinity mirror glow, which offers a multi-layer visual effect from almost every possible angle. This feature gives it a realistic 3D feel with a sense of depth and layers. Additionally, there are aluminum trims on both sides, which further intensify the look. There is also an aluminum rim at the back, which covers the logo. Therefore, the stunning looks of the Lian Li UNI FAN SL-INFINITY make it ideal for installation in transparent PC cases.
Moving on, there are 40 LEDs in each fan, which offer various combinations of colors. The good thing is that the frame color and fan blade color can be controlled independently, unlocking dozens of possible color combinations. Furthermore, the usual problem with RGB fans is their extensive cable network. Lian Li has fixed this problem by offering a neat and minimal cable network, which itself is a good-looking feature.
Let’s briefly take a look at the standard specs of the Lian Li UNI FAN SL-INFINITY. Its maximum airflow is 61.3 CFM at a maximum blade speed of 2100 RPM. Furthermore, the sound it makes has an intensity of 29 dB. For enhanced stability, smoothness, and longevity, the Lian Li UNI FAN SL-INFINITY uses fluid dynamic bearing. Additionally, the static pressure it exerts at full speed is 2.66 mm H20, which is good enough for effective cooling.
Another key feature of Lian Li UNI FAN SL-INFINITY is the daisy chain connectivity, which allows the installation of these fans in a pack without creating a mess of wires for individual fans. Lastly, the 120mm RBG fan is available in black and white color. You can go with whichever color suits your build.
What We Liked:
Without a second thought, the stunning RGB look is the most impressive feature that this 120mm fan offers.
What We Disliked:
Apart from the high price tag, these fans can also be quite noisy sometimes.
Who Is It For?
Made especially for RGB lovers, the Lian Li UNI FAN SL-INFINITY is the best investment for anyone who wants stunning and realistic 3D RGB looks in a 120mm case fan.
What Makes The Lian Li UNI FAN SL-INFINITY Best 120mm RGB Fan?
The Lian Li UNI FAN SL-INFINITY is a clear winner for the best 120mm RGB fan award due to its fascinating RGB looks coupled with the infinity mirror glow and other customization options.
| Performance: 10/10 | Value: 7/10 |
| Features: 10/10 | Design: 10/10 |
Important Case Fan Terms
Here are some frequently used case fan terms that you will frequently encounter:
- Airflow: The amount of air that a fan can move within a given time, usually measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM).
- Static Pressure: The pressure a fan can generate to push air through obstructions like heatsinks or radiators, measured in millimeters of water (mm H2O).
- Noise Level: The amount of sound produced by the fan during operation, typically measured in decibels (dB).
- RPM (Revolutions Per Minute): The speed at which the fan blades rotate, affecting the airflow and noise level.
- Bearing Type: The type of bearing used in the fan motor hub, such as sleeve, ball, or fluid dynamic bearing, which affects noise levels and fan longevity.
- PWM (Pulse Width Modulation): A method of fan speed control that adjusts the fan’s speed based on the pulse width of the input signal, allowing for dynamic speed adjustments.
How To Select The Best 120mm Case Fan
When choosing a PC case fan, there are several important factors to consider:
Airflow and Static Pressure
Ensure the fan has sufficient airflow (CFM) to cool your components effectively, and consider its static pressure for optimal performance in restricted spaces. Higher airflow and static pressure promote efficient heat dissipation and cooling performance.
Noise Levels
Look for a fan with lower dB ratings to maintain a quieter computing experience while balancing cooling performance. Quieter fans provide a more peaceful environment without sacrificing effective cooling.
Size and Compatibility
Check the fan’s dimensions (mm) to ensure compatibility with your case and determine the optimal size for airflow within your system. Proper sizing ensures seamless integration and maximum airflow efficiency.
PWM or DC Control
Decide whether you prefer a fan with PWM for dynamic speed control or DC for constant speed operation. PWM control allows for automatic fan speed adjustments based on temperature, while DC fans operate at a consistent speed.
Bearing Type
Consider the fan’s bearing type for longevity and noise levels. Ball-bearing fans offer durability while sleeve-bearing fans provide quieter operation. Choosing the right bearing type ensures reliable performance and reduces maintenance needs.
Design and Aesthetics
Choose a fan with an appealing design, optimized blade shape, and color scheme that complements your PC build. Look for options with lighting or RGB effects for customizable visual flair. Aesthetically pleasing fans add a stylish touch to your system.
Build Quality
Go for case fans with high-quality construction to ensure durability. Sturdy build quality can contribute to a long-lasting system.
120mm Fan vs 140mm Fan
| 120mm Fan | 140mm Fan |
| Runs at higher RPM due to small size to provide good airflow | Runs at lower RPM due to large area to provide the same airflow |
| Suitable for compact builds due to small size | More suitable for large form factor builds |
| Generates more noise because of higher RPM | Generates less noise because of lower RPM |
| Adequate heat dissipation | Comparatively higher heat dissipation ability due to the larger surface area |
When it comes to cooling systems, the choice between a 120 mm fan and a 140 mm fan depends on the specific requirements of the system and the available space. Both fan sizes have their associated pros and cons. A 120 mm fan is smaller and commonly found in many PC cases. It offers good airflow and can fit into tight spaces. Due to its smaller size, it generally runs at higher RPM, resulting in increased airflow and higher noise levels. However, it can be a suitable choice for smaller systems where space is limited and noise is not a significant concern.
On the other hand, a 140 mm fan provides a larger surface area for airflow, allowing it to move more air at a lower RPM. This results in improved cooling performance while generating less noise compared to a 120 mm fan running at similar airflow levels. The larger size also leads to better heat dissipation, making it a favorable choice for systems that require efficient cooling. However, the downside is that 140 mm fans are physically larger, so they may not fit into all cases or tight spaces.
80mm Fan vs 120mm Fan
| 80mm Fan | 120mm Fan |
| An excellent pick for SFF builds due to its small size | It may not fit in places where an 80mm fan can fit |
| Needs to run at a higher RPM to give good airflow | It can run at comparatively low RPM to provide good airflow |
| It can be very noisy because of running at very high RPMs | Acceptable noise levels, even at high speeds |
| Limited cooling capability due to small size | Heat dissipation capability is suitable for many applications |
Similarly, when an 80 mm case fan is put in comparison with a 120 mm case fan, there are certain advantages and disadvantages to consider. An 80 mm fan is smaller in size and commonly used in compact cases or low-profile systems. Its compact design allows it to fit into tight spaces where larger fans might not be suitable. However, due to its smaller size, an 80 mm fan typically produces less airflow and can be noisier as it needs to spin at a higher RPM to compensate. It may not provide the same level of cooling performance as a larger fan, but it can still be useful for SFF setups or in setups with limited space.
On the other hand, a 120 mm case fan offers several advantages over an 80 mm fan. With its larger size, it can move more air at lower RPM, resulting in better cooling performance and reduced noise levels. The increased airflow and larger surface area of the blades allow for more efficient heat dissipation. However, it’s worth noting that a 120 mm fan requires more space within the case, so it may not be compatible with all systems, especially compact or low-profile cases.
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FAQs
Yes, a 120mm fan at the back can help drive the exhaust out of the PC case and hence improving thermal performance.
If your PC case supports both 140mm and 120mm fans, choosing between the two depends on your specific needs. Generally, a 140mm fan can provide better airflow and potentially run at lower speeds, resulting in quieter operation.
The suitable type of 120mm fan depends on your need and setup. Usually, it would be best if you went with the 120mm fan that offers greater airflow, high static pressure, and low noise.
There are various ways to classify PC fans into different types. Based on their application, PC fans can be case fans, CPU fans, GPU fans, radiator fans, PSU fans, and drive bay fans.
A 120mm case fan typically connects to the motherboard’s fan headers or a fan controller using a 3-pin or 4-pin connector.
A good static pressure rating for a 120mm fan typically ranges between 1.0 to 2.0 mmH2O. Although, other factors like CFM and RPM also matter in deciding a fan’s performance.
The voltage of most computer fans, including the 120mm computer fan, is typically 12 volts DC.
- September 12, 2023: Few text changes to improve readability. No products were changed.
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[Hardware Reviewer]
Awais Khan is a Tech Geek, conscientious, reliable, and hardworking individual who pays attention to detail with excellent time management skills. Alongside that, he is an expert in PC Hardware; dealing with Benchmarks, Analysis, and testing before sharing information with readers. Whenever free, Awais occasionally shares Gaming Videos on his YouTube Channel.
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