CPU CASE FAN?

[rans]

Is there a noticeable performance difference using a cheap case fan vs a higher price. Ex. Corsair ll120?

 

Aside from the rgb and noise. Is there a difference when it comes to blowing/cooling air? Thanks!

[Elisis]

There's practically no difference in cooling performance, as long as some airflow is happening.

[Axeonelite]

BUT just a reminder Ambient temps do matter. So if you're running a space heater in the winter putting out 90 degree air right next to your tower it  will suffer. 

 

Check out this experiment the guys did to learn more. 

 

 

[Jurrunio]

Depends on the exact cheap fan in the comparison, the LL120 is weak in airflow and noise mind you.

[DailyProcrastinator]

In terms of cooling performance, no not much difference, the only times it may matter when you choose a fan "type" is static pressure optimized fans vs air flow optimized fans. Static pressure optimized fans are good for radiators or front panels with poor ventilation. So an air flow optimized fan that is placed on a rad might not cool the liquid in the rad as well as a pressure optimized fan would. The LL fans are optimized for a balance of both, but in practice are more static pressure optimized as that seems to be the most common use case anyways, most fans are. The only difference you get with other fans, like the Corsair ML for example, is lower & higher RPM operation, slightly better airflow & static pressure optimization, and their main selling feature is that they are quieter. 

[TrigrH]

1 hour ago, rans said:

Is there a noticeable performance difference using a cheap case fan vs a higher price. Ex. Corsair ll120?

 

Aside from the rgb and noise. Is there a difference when it comes to blowing/cooling air? Thanks!

the main difference then will be the RPM of the fan and lifespan

[NineEyeRon]

Noise is the primary concern, loud fans have their place but not for everyone.

 

I just moved to a Noctua Redux 140 to pair with my Fractal GP-140 I got with the case.

 

The noctua is quieter at the same RPM! 
 

Once you go Noctua you don’t go back, even the redux models are amazing!

[WoodenMarker]

Higher price doesn't mean better. LL120's are actually not very good performers due to the short fan blades. 

There's a wide range of fans and their performance capabilities. That being said, 20% more airflow doesn't mean 20% better cooling or 20% better performance. What's enough for cooling and what's overkill varies between systems.