PCs perform better when they’re paired with the best PC case fans. This is because operating in the heat can be counterproductive.
Computer parts like your CPU and graphics card become more efficient at doing what they’re designed to do when kept cool. Furthermore, the importance of case fans shouldn’t be overlooked as this helps extend the lifespan of a PC.
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Every time a computer is turned on, it’s prone to overheat, and, many times built-in fans just are effective enough to keep it going.
Thankfully, there isn’t a shortage of the best PC case fans in 2024. We’ve taken the liberty to jot them all down, so you can get on with your creative work.
Also, see our blogs on the best PC speakers, and the best mini PCs.
12+ Best PC Case Fans in 2024
- Noctua NF-S12B redux-1200 — The best PC case fan in 2024 overall (Editor’s Choice)
- Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM — The best budget PC case fan
- Thermaltake Toughfan 12 Turbo — The best value PC case fan
- Corsair LL120 RGB — The best low-noise PC case fan
- Cooler Master MF200R ARGB — The best ARGB PC case fan
- be quiet! Silent Wings 3 — The best silent PC case fan
- Cooler Master MasterFan MF120 Halo — The best easy-to-install PC case fan
- Phanteks PH-F140MP — The best adjustable speed PC case fan
- Noctua NF-P12 redux — The best powerful PC case fan
- uphere 3-Pack — The best no-frills PC case fan
- ARCTIC P12 PWM PST — The best PC case fan with quiet motor
- Antec — The best high-performance PC case fan
What is the Best Case Fan for Your PC in 2024?
To us, the best PC case fan is the Noctua NF-S12B redux-1200. If you’re interested in some of our other top choices, check out our comparison table below.
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Uses of PC Fans
- Cooling – Fans are used to cool down hot components like the CPU, GPU, power supply, etc. More powerful components produce more heat, so more fans are needed.
- Airflow – Fans circulate air through the case, bringing in cool air and exhausting hot air. Good airflow prevents heat from building up in certain spots.
- Dust removal – Fans help remove dust buildup by blowing air through the case. Dust can clog up parts and lead to overheating.
- Temperature control – Multiple fans placed strategically around the case help regulate air temperatures and prevent overheating of components.
- Component lifespan – Cooler components last longer. Effective cooling protects parts from damage due to overheating.
- Performance – Well-cooled components can run faster and handle heavier workloads. Insufficient cooling leads to throttling.
- Noise reduction – Multiple slower fans can move the same amount of air quieter than one fast, noisy fan.
- Aesthetics – Fans with LED lights contribute to the look of the build. Colors and lights can be coordinated.
- Air pressure – Strategic fan placement maintains positive pressure to keep dust out or negative pressure to exhaust heat.
12+ Best PC Cooling Fans in 2024
1. Noctua NF-S12B redux-1200 (Editor’s Choice)
The best PC case fan in 2024 overall
Noise Level: 18.1 dB | Dimensions: 4.72 x 0.98 x 4.72 inches | Air Flow Capacity: 59.21 CFM
The best-case fan on our list is the Noctua NF-S12B redux-1200. A great balance of straightforwardness and quality, this pick is quiet at 18.1 dBA, immediately eliminating breeze noise. It’s relatively affordable, noticeably powerful, and is one of the most long-lasting fans out there.
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While it only comes in one color, this one’s definitely on the top of our favorites. PC case fans are important because ventilation is one of the factors that determine a PC’s lifespan.
The case fan can boost the airflow through the case, keeping the temperature down inside. If you’re working on heavy-duty projects, having PC case fans will keep your PC functional for a long time.
But don’t take our word for it! Check out the Amazon reviews for yourself, and find out why this one’s a standout!
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Silent running | ➖ Only available in one color |
| ➕ Well-priced |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- High performance cooling fan, 120x120x25 mm, 12V, 3-pin Molex, 1200 RPM, 18.1 dB(A), >150,000 h MTTF
- Airflow-optimised blade design with high CFM and outstanding quietness of operation, ideal for low-noise case cooling, chassis ventilation and other applications with low airflow resistance
- 1200rpm 3-pin version with excellent balance of performance and quietness, speed can be controlled with optional NA-SRC10 Low-Noise Adaptors or by reducing voltage
- Streamlined redux edition: proven Noctua quality, wide range of optional accessories (anti-vibration mounts, S-ATA adaptors, y-splitters, extension cables, etc.)
2. Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM
The best budget PC case fan
Noise Level: 23.9 dB| Dimensions: 4.72 x 0.59 x 4.72 inches | Air Flow Capacity: 55.4 CFM
The Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM is one of the bigger standouts on the list, simply because of its brown color.
In an era where case fans are dominated by both ARGB and RGB LED lights, the sight of a beige-heavy fan may not be appealing to a lot of people. But that’s exactly what makes it unique compared to all the other options here.
Still, it does what it’s made to do. It’s powerful, mostly quiet, and comes at a great price point, too! If you’re using a gaming PC, having many PC case fans like this will make sure it lasts for a long time.
If the color doesn’t turn you off, you may want to give this a look.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Easy to install | ➖ Fan color can be off-putting |
| ➕ Generally silent operation |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Premium quiet slim fan, 120x120x15 mm, 12V, 4-pin PWM, max. 1850 RPM, max. 23.9 dB(A), >150,000 h MTTF
- Award-winning A-series design with Flow Acceleration Channels and Advanced Acoustic Optimisation frame for superior quiet cooling performance
- 120x15mm slim design ideal for low-profile CPU coolers, HTPCs, ITX builds, space-restricted applications etc.
- 4-pin PWM version for automatic speed control via 4-pin PWM fan headers, 1850rpm maximum speed (1400rpm with supplied Low-Noise Adaptor)
- Includes anti-vibration mounts, fan screws, extension cable and y-cable for running two PWM fans on the same header
3. Thermaltake Toughfan 12 Turbo
The best value PC case fan
Noise Level: 28.1 dB | Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 25 mm | Air Flow Capacity: 72.69 CFM
While everyone else fixes their eyes on RGB case fans, allow us to present to you the Thermaltake Toughfan 12 Turbo. A high-static pressure fan, this contender is ideal for pushing air out of confined spaces and narrow grills.
The better the airflow in your PC’s space, the better its performance will be too. We recommend using this fan for PCs that really need better airflow, like gaming and graphic design PCs.
If you’re thinking of assembling a bespoke processor, consider this pick! It’s powerful, easy to install, and relatively affordable.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Decent price point | ➖ Only comes in black |
| ➕ Efficient cooling performance |
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Latest Price on Amazon:
- FN1479 Japanese Authorized Agent
- Superior cooling performance
- New design fan blade with LCP material
- 2nd generation hydrolic bearings with excellent silence
- Equipped with steel motor hub for stability and durability
4. Corsair LL120 RGB
The best low-noise PC case fan
Noise Level: 24.8 dB | Dimensions: 4.72 x 4.72 x 0.98 inches | Air Flow Capacity: 43.25 CFM
The Corsair LL120 RGB is one of the most popular case fans, not just because they are striking to look at, with their RGB LED lights but because they also work just as efficiently.
Available in two colors, this fan may be a tad expensive but it can be a perfect choice for gamers, night owls, and aesthetic-conscious workers looking for a PC case fan that will deliver as expected.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Great aesthetic | ➖ Expensive |
| ➕ Available in two colors |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 16 independent RGB LEDs in every fan, split between two separate light loops. Airflow - 43.25 CFM. Noise level - 24.8 decibels
- Software control and customize RGB lighting effects with the included Corsair lighting Node Pro or expand your RGB lighting with more Corsair RGB fans or RGB LED lighting strips (sold separately)
- PWM fan control allows for dynamic speed adjustment between 600 rpm to 1, 500 rpm, minimizing noise or maximizing airflow
- 120 millimeter fan Blade engineered for Low-Noise operation without sacrificing performance
- Bearing Type: Hydraulic
5. Cooler Master MF200R ARGB
The best ARGB PC case fan
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Noise Level: 28 dB | Dimensions: 7.87 x 7.87 x 0.98 inches | Air Flow Capacity: 90 CFM
The Cooler Master MF200R ARGB is the perfect case fan for those who want to save on money but still want stunning RGB lights.
What’s more, because this pick is an ARGB case fan, you can customize these lights exactly to your liking. It’s not the quietest option on the list, but for its price, we say this is a pretty sweet deal.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Adjustable RGB lights are a unique feature | ➖ A tad pricey |
| ➕ Good price point |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Addressable RGB - Addressable RGB that achieves full color customization. Certified Compatible with Asus Aura, ASRock RGB, and MSI RGB
- Silent Cooling Technology - A mix of noise reduction technology and sound absorbing rubber pads for peace and quiet even when your PC is working overtime
- Hybrid Design- A combination of both jet engine and helicopter blade designs gives you the static air pressure you need without sacrificing airflow
- Smart Fan Sensor for Jam Protection - Never worry about your cables getting snagged again.
6. be quiet! Silent Wings 3
The best silent PC case fan
Noise Level: 16.4 dB | Dimensions: 5.51 x 0.98 x 5.51 inches | Air Flow Capacity: 77.57 CFM
If you’re big on noise, then this is most definitely the one for you! The be quiet! Silent Wings 3 is available in 2 sizes—120mm and 140mm—and 3 PWM variations. At 16.4 dB, these are also the quietest options on the list.
Packing anti-vibration mountings and durable fluid-dynamic bearing, consider the sound this contender makes as loud as a whisper from a person a few feet away from you.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Anti-vibration mountings | ➖ Overall design is a bit bland |
| ➕ Available in two sizes |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Great performance-to-noise ratio with 28.1Db(a) at 1, 600Rpm. Air flow - 77.57 CFM. Noise level - 28.1 decibels
- 6-Pole fan motor for less power consumption and vibration
- Fluid-dynamic bearing enables super-long life span of 300, 000 hours
- Fan frame with funnel-shaped air inlets for extremely high air pressure
- Seven fan blades provide optimized airflow.Pwm controlled fan speed by the motherboard
7. Cooler Master MasterFan MF120 Halo
The best easy-to-install PC case fan
Noise Level: 30 dB | Dimensions: 4.72 x 4.72 x 0.98 inches | Air Flow Capacity: 47.2 CFM
The Cooler Master MasterFan MF120 Halo is another popular choice for obvious reasons. Featuring dual-loop ARGB lighting, this pick makes use of 24 individually controlled addressable RGB LEDs divided into two rings, exuding a more vibrant aesthetic.
Stunning, well-reviewed, and durable, this pick is well worth your buck! At 30 dB, though, don’t expect this contender to be as quiet as the other options here.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Great 3-pack value | ➖ Performance as a radiator fan is poor |
| ➕ RGB lighting compatible with the motherboard |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- DUAL-LOOP ARGB LIGHTING - The MasterFan Halo series employs 24 individually controlled Addressable RGB LED’s divided into two rings to ensure an exceptionally vibrant display of colour
- SILENT COOLING TECHNOLOGY - MF120 Halo is fitted with multiple layers of noise reduction technology and sound absorbing materials, which ensure more consistent fan RPM and reduce inefficient vibration...
- HYBRID FAN BLADE DESIGN - Air Balance fan blades combine the design elements of both jet and helicopter blades to deliver dependable air pressure (1.6 mmH2O ± 10%) for cooling and exceptional airflow...
- FULL COMPATIBILITY - The MF120 Halo is fully compatible with ARGB motherboard software (e.g. ASUS Aura, ASRock RGB and MSI RGB) and includes wire Addressable RGB controller for older model...
- SMART FAN SENSOR FOR JAM PROTECTION - The MF Halo series comes with intelligent sensors to help protect against cables and components becoming snagged or damaged during operation
8. Phanteks PH-F140MP
The best adjustable speed PC case fan
Noise Level: 25.3 dB| Dimensions: 5.51 x 0.98 x 5.51 inches | Air Flow Capacity: 53.3 CFM
Designed for 140mm cases, the Phanteks PH-F140MP is a stellar contender being that its high static air pressure is perfect for congested cases, especially if they’re bespoke processors.
The fan from Phanteks also lets you manage the fan speed, ensuring performance the way you deem fit. Affordable, powerful, and easy to maintain, there are a lot of things to love here.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Adjustable fan speed | ➖ No color variety |
| ➕ Durable |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Air flow - 53.3 CFM. Noise level - 25.3 decibels
- Country of origin : China
- Model Number : PH-F140MP_BK_PWM
- Package Weight : 1 pounds
9. Noctua NF-P12 redux
The best powerful PC case fan
Noise Level: 25.1 dB | Dimensions: 4.72 x 0.98 x 4.72 inches | Air Flow Capacity: 54.97 CFM
A 120mm fan, the Noctua NF-P12 redux produces static pressure at high levels and keeps the loudness at roughly 25.1 dB. One of the more affordable options on the list, this pick delivers as promised.
Made particularly for pressure-demanding software—anything from Adobe—this contender is an enduring crowd favorite that’s earned the praise of many.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Powerful airflow capacity | ➖ Only one color |
| ➕ Great price point |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- High performance cooling fan, 120x120x25 mm, 12V, 4-pin PWM, max. 1700 RPM, max. 25.1 dB(A), >150,000 h MTTF
- Renowned NF-P12 high-end 120x25mm 12V fan, more than 100 awards and recommendations from international computer hardware websites and magazines, hundreds of thousands of satisfied users
- Pressure-optimised blade design with outstanding quietness of operation: high static pressure and strong CFM for air-based CPU coolers, water cooling radiators or low-noise chassis ventilation
- 1700rpm 4-pin PWM version with excellent balance of performance and quietness, supports automatic motherboard speed control (powerful airflow when required, virtually silent at idle)
- Streamlined redux edition: proven Noctua quality at an attractive price point, wide range of optional accessories (anti-vibration mounts, S-ATA adaptors, y-splitters, extension cables, etc.)
10. uphere 3-Pack
The best no-frills PC case fan
Noise Level: 19 dB| Dimensions: 5.87 x 5.04 x 3.11 inches | Air Flow Capacity: 38 CFM
If you’re looking for a case fan bundle for a decent-sized CPU, then the uphere 3-Pack could be what you need. Although they’re not the sturdiest pick from the bunch, they perform as needed and deliver basic air-cooling needs.
At a great price point, there’s a lot to like about these plastic case fans. If a quick fix is all you need, there’s no harm in giving this bundle a try!
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Excellent performance | ➖ Noisier than other options |
| ➕ Available in two colors |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Higher air flow to enhance cooling performance
- Economic solution for perfect performance
- RoHS compliance for protecting the environment
- 3 IN 1 Value Pack
- Ultra silent operation at 19 dBA
11. ARCTIC P12 PWM PST
The best PC case fan with quiet motor
Noise Level: 0.3 sones | Dimensions: 4.72 x 0.98 x 4.72 inches | Air Flow Capacity: 56.3 CFM
If you’re searching for a PC case fan with extraordinarily less noise in its motor, then ARCTIC P12 PWM PST is the right choice. This works with a centered airstream and accordingly, an excessive static pressure.
The 4-pin connector permits for broad-spectrum PWM law of the RPM, minimizing noise whilst presenting the most cooling overall performance while necessary.
The motor pushes through a PWM IC of the latest generation, which leads to progressed performance and electricity financial savings without sacrificing overall performance.
It is possible to double a fan’s lifespan by decreasing the motor temperature by 10 °C, however, the innovative ARCTIC motor has four instances of longer carrier lifestyles because of its low coil temperature.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Pressure-optimized | ➖ Maximum speed could be higher |
| ➕ Very quiet motor | |
| ➕ Long-lasting |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- OPTIMISED FOR STATIC PRESSURE: During the development of the new P12 PWM PST, special emphasis was placed on a focused airstream and thus a high static pressure
- 200 TO 1800 RPM REGULATED VIA PWM PST: Thanks to 4-pin connector, the RPM can be regulated in a broad spectrum via PWM, noise is kept at minimum while maximum cooling performance is given when needed
- MORE EFFICIENT TECHNOLOGY: The motor is powered by a Neodym-Iron-Boron-Magnet ring of the newest generation, which allows the new P12 PWM PST to run much more efficiently than its predecessors
- EXTENDED LIFE SPAN: A 10 °C lower motor temperature roughly doubles the life span of a fan, the new ARCTIC motor has a four times longer service life through its low coil temperature
- TECHNICAL DATA: Fan speed: 200–1800 RPM, Airflow: 56.3 CFM/95.65 m³/h (@ 1800 RPM), Noise Level: 0.3 Sone (@ 1800 RPM), Pin: 4-pin
12. Antec
The best high-performance PC case fan
Noise Level: 21.5db | Dimensions: 4.72 x 4.72 x 0.98 inches | Air Flow Capacity: 30.5 CFM
If you are looking for a case fan bundle at an affordable price with high performance, Antec is all that you need for your computer.
The impeller’s design prioritized reducing noise (21.5 dBA) while yet producing great airflow (30.5 CFM) and pressure (0.65 mmH2O).
These fan blades’ distinctive shape provides incredibly effective ventilation (1000 RPM). It also features high airflow (30.5CFM), superior cooling capacity, and a seven-blade design.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ High-Quality Fan Blade | ➖ Does not have four pin connectors |
| ➕ Highly Efficient Ventilation | |
| ➕ Silent Case Fan |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Silent Case Fan : The impeller was designed with a focus on minimizing the noise level (20.2 dBA) yet delivering the superior airflow (30.28 CFM) and pressure (0.61 mmH2O)
- Highly Efficient Ventilation : The distinctive design on the back end of the fan blades providing highly efficient ventilation (1000 RPM)
- High Quality Fan Blade : Designed with 7 blades to provide high airflow (30.28 CFM), good cooling capacity.
- Trusted Premium Brand : 18-month manufacturer's warranty and Professional Customer Service Assistance.
- Package : (1) F12 120mm Case Fan x5；(2) 1 to 3 Fan Splitter x2；(3) Fan Screws x20
How to Choose the Best Case Fan for Your PC
Airflow
The whole point of purchasing a case fan for your PC has to do with airflow. That said, you’re going to want to make sure that what you buy moves fresh air into the case, ensuring that heat exits the other end.
A measurement of how faulty a fan can do this is measured in cubic feet per minute. As with everything in tech, these things aren’t made equally but the average tower case has an internal volume of roughly 1.5 cubic feet.
Sound
Silent fans are often the preferred option for a lot of people. If you want a quiet case fan, what you’re going to consider is the dBA—meaning its decibels—a fan produces.
Generally, the picks here that are designed to be silent usually run at lower Rotations Per Minute (RPM), and may not perform as effectively as those that don’t prioritize silence.
Still, that doesn’t automatically make a silent case fan a bad choice. If you’re going to listen to music anyway, you might not even notice the sound of a breeze.
Lights
Case fans that feature lights come in two options: addressable RGB (ARGB)—meaning you can customize each individual LED—and regular RGB. This isn’t particularly a make or break for plenty of buyers, but if you’re big on lights and visuals, you may want to check this part of a case fan out.
Price
The price of a PC case fan can vary based on its features such as size, speed, blade shape, and color all differ among fans. Some fans even have LED lights incorporated right into them, while others are more performance-oriented.
While smaller fans spin faster than larger fans, larger fans can spin at lower speeds and circulate air without creating much noise. However, it can be a worthwhile investment provided your system is already set up and you are happy with its specifications but need to fine-tune it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a gaming computer need three fans?
Yes, a gaming PC can function well with three fans. Depending on your situation, you can use either two intakes and one exhaust or the opposite.
Do Case fans impact performance?
A fan's capacity to move a larger volume of air increases with its airflow, which has a favorable effect on cooling performance. When expelling heated air from the case, a greater airflow fan is best.
How loud should case fans be?
When you're using your computer or playing a game, it's typical for case fans to change from being silent to being audible. They should typically just emit a faint hum.
Best PC Case Fans Summary
All in all, the best case fans in 2024 are those that allow your PC to keep working as efficiently as possible. Whether visually stimulating with RBG LED lights or not, the case fan that’s best for you is whatever ticks everything off of your checklist.
We’ve listed down various PC case fans to fit your needs. If you’re looking for a PC case fan with the best performance, we think you’ll love Antec. We also have the quietest PC case fan on our list, be quiet! Silent Wings 3. And finally, if you have budget concerns, the Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM is what you need.
We hope you find what you’re looking for here. What’s your favorite pick from the list? Let us know in the comment section!
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