SPCR

I'm curious as to everyone's favorite 120mm fans. I don't remember seeing a similar poll, so I thought I'd start one up.

Please vote for your favorite fan. It doesn't have to be the quietest; just whatever model you prefer overall. After voting, take a minute to post why you chose that particular brand, including the specific model(s).

As a side note, I have a feeling people's opinions will change once SPCR completes their 120mm fan review

Thanks for your input!

Here's my own input. I chose Nexus/Yate-Loon for their low-speed sleeve-bearing models (e.g. D12SL-12). My other top contenders are the Scythe S-FLEX series and GlobalWin's NCB fans.

GHz wrote:Here's my own input. I chose Nexus/Yate-Loon for their low-speed sleeve-bearing models (e.g. D12SL-12). My other top contenders are the Scythe S-FLEX series and GlobalWin's NCB fans.

The D12SL-12 from Nexus and Yate Loon are the best sounding fans I've tried - bar none. In many ways I prefer the YL: 1) cost - I can get 3-4 YL for the price if a single Nexus, and 2) wider operating range - the YL has a higher top-end flow which makes it more flexible - assuming you're using some type of fan control.

If you need a more durable bearing, the Sythe S-Flex fans are my current choice - especially if you are going to mount the fan blowing up or down. The GlobalWins are another nice choice in place of the Scythes, though I have a preference for the Scythe - price notwithstanding (the Scythes were almost 3x the cost). I haven't had a chance to try the ADDA AD1212 ball-bearing fans, but if my experience with my Seasonic M12 is any indication, it would rank up there with the Scythe and the GlobalWin.

I have GW NCBs in all of my modded PSUs, so at least one in all of my computers (2.75 at the moment).

I could live with any of these, in order of cost: YL, NCB, Enermax Enlobal, Nexus, SilenX. I own, and have tried as exhaust fans, all except the Nexus, which is by all accounts an RPM-restricted YL. All of these have very low motor noise.

The GW NCB, with its ceramic bearings, should outlast the rest. I interpret this as meaning that it will stay quieter longer. Time will tell, I guess!

sjschwinn: I wouldn't mind sampling the ADDA fans, but unfortunately you can't buy them anywhere (aside from wholesalers at very high cost).

FC: The GlobalWin fans are really nice. As far as I can tell, they are quieter than the Nexus/YL fans (my GW samples had less motor noise) but push slightly less air. I'll leave it up to SPCR to give the final verdict.

Nexus, "of course"

rpsgc wrote:Nexus, "of course"

What he said. ^^^^