Thermalright TL-C12CW-S X5 CPU Fan 120mm ARGB Case Cooler Fan, 4pin PWM Silent Computer with S-FDB Bearing Included, up to 1550RPM Cooling Fan（5 Quantities）
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AI Verdict
A 120mm ARGB fan with a 4-pin PWM connector and S-FDB bearing, hitting 1550 RPM, for budget-focused PC builders needing multiple fans.
These fans are a strong contender if you're building on a tight budget and need a pack of 120mm ARGB fans with PWM control. The daisy-chaining for both power and ARGB is a huge plus for simplifying wiring in multi-fan setups. However, if you're sensitive to noise or demand peak performance, their 25.6 dBA at 1550 RPM and reported long-term noise issues might be a compromise.
If silence is paramount, look for fans with lower dBA ratings at their maximum RPM, or those specifically marketed for low-noise operation, often with fluid dynamic bearings and optimized blade designs.
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Pros
- Includes a 55cm cable for PWM and ARGB daisy-chaining, simplifying cable management for multiple units.
- Features high-brightness LED atomizing fan blades with 17 ARGB modes, synchronized via motherboard 3-pin ARGB headers.
- Automatically adjusts speed up to 1550 RPM based on motherboard temperature via 4-pin PWM control.
- Delivers 66.17 CFM airflow and 1.53 mm H2O static pressure, suitable for both case and CPU cooler applications.
- Constructed from industrial-grade PBT+PC material, providing a reasonable feel for its price point.
Cons
- Some users report humming or rattling noises developing after several months of use.
- The 25.6 dBA noise level, while specified, is not considered quiet compared to higher-end fans at similar performance levels.
- ARGB lighting, while bright, can appear less uniform and 'peter out' towards the fan blade edges compared to more premium options.
- The fan's sticker on the front may not be perfectly centered, affecting aesthetics for some users.
- Performance as a dedicated case fan is debated, with one reviewer suggesting it's better suited for CPU coolers than general case airflow.
Dimension Scores
The fan delivers 66.17 CFM airflow and 1.53 mm H2O static pressure at 1550 RPM, which is average for a 120mm fan in its price range.
Rated at 25.6 dBA, users report it's not particularly quiet at higher RPMs, and some experience humming or rattling over time, placing it below average for silence.
Made of industrial-grade PBT+PC material, the fans feel 'pretty good quality but nothing special' for their budget price.
The 55cm cable length and daisy-chaining capability for both PWM and ARGB are a significant advantage, simplifying wiring for multiple fans.
Best For
- Budget PC builds requiring multiple ARGB fans for case cooling or CPU cooler pairing.
- Users who prioritize ARGB aesthetics and daisy-chaining convenience over absolute silence.
- Systems with motherboards that have limited fan or ARGB headers, benefiting from the daisy-chain feature.
Not Recommended For
- Silence-focused builds where any audible fan noise is unacceptable.
- High-performance systems demanding top-tier static pressure for dense radiators.
- Users expecting premium build quality and perfectly uniform ARGB lighting.
Watch Out For
- Some users report fans developing humming or rattling noises after a few months of operation.
- The ARGB lighting is only on the fan blades, and its brightness can diminish towards the edges.
- No explicit warranty information is readily available from the manufacturer.
- Connecting to older motherboards without a 3-pin 5V ARGB header can be problematic, as the fans require this specific connection for lighting control.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 764035266519 |
| ASIN | B0D9NQ26J9 |
| Brand | Thermalright |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Material | Plastic |
| Item Weight | 1.68 pounds |
| Noise Level | 25.6 Decibels |
| Manufacturer | THERMALRIGHT |
| Cooling Method | Air |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Air Flow Capacity | 66.17 Cubic Feet Per Minute |
| Item model number | TL-C12CW-S X5 D6 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Product Dimensions | 4.72"L x 4.72"W x 0.98"H |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 1550 RPM |
What Buyers Say
The most surprising finding is how often users praise the daisy-chaining feature for both power and ARGB, making multi-fan setups much cleaner to wire. While the fans are very budget-friendly, some users report a noticeable humming or rattling noise developing after a few months of use, which can be a dealbreaker for those seeking quiet operation. The ARGB lighting is generally well-received for its brightness and motherboard synchronization, though some note the illumination isn't perfectly uniform across the blades. Performance-wise, they move a decent amount of air for the price, but they aren't top-tier in terms of static pressure or noise-normalized efficiency.
“Dude, for like five bucks a fan, these light up my whole case and I only had to use one header for all of 'em. Yeah, they hum a bit after a while, but seriously, what do you expect for this price? Still looks sick.”
Common Praise
- Daisy-chaining for both 4-pin PWM and 3-pin ARGB simplifies wiring significantly.
- The ARGB lighting is bright and offers 17 modes, syncing with motherboard software.
- Very low price per fan, especially when purchased in multi-packs.
- Automatic speed control via 4-pin PWM works as expected, adjusting to temperature.
- Can be used effectively for both case cooling and on CPU coolers.
Common Complaints
- Some fans develop humming or rattling noises after several months of use.
- Not as quiet as more expensive, premium fan brands like Noctua or Arctic.
- ARGB lighting can be uneven, with brightness fading towards the edges of the fan blades.
- The sticker on the fan hub is sometimes off-center, which is an aesthetic flaw.
- Lack of clear warranty information from the manufacturer.
Ownership Tips
- The daisy-chain connectors are a lifesaver for managing cables, especially in smaller cases or with budget motherboards that have few headers.
- The ARGB brightness is definitely noticeable, but don't expect perfectly diffused light like some high-end fans; it's more direct.
- After a few months, one of my fans started making a slight buzzing sound, which is annoying but not constant.
- The fan blades are easy to clean, which is a plus for maintaining airflow and aesthetics over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I control the ARGB lighting?
Yes, the ARGB lighting supports up to 17 modes and can be managed and synchronized through a compatible 3-pin ARGB port on your motherboard. It does not require a proprietary controller.
Are these fans quiet?
The fans are rated at 25.6 dBA at their maximum 1550 RPM. While some users find them quiet at idle, others note they are not as silent as premium alternatives, and some have reported humming or rattling over time.
Can I connect multiple fans together?
Yes, these fans feature daisy-chaining for both the 4-pin PWM power and the 3-pin ARGB lighting, allowing you to connect multiple fans to a single motherboard header.
Are these suitable for CPU coolers or radiators?
They can be used for both case cooling and CPU coolers, offering 1.53 mm H2O static pressure. One reviewer suggests they perform better on CPU coolers than as general case fans.
What kind of bearing do these fans use?
These fans utilize an S-FDB (Fluid Dynamic Bearing) which is designed to minimize noise and improve longevity.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at PC fans, you're basically balancing how much air they move (airflow), how much pressure they can generate (static pressure), and how loud they get. Airflow is key for getting air in and out of your case, while static pressure is more important if the fan is pushing air through a restrictive radiator or a dense CPU cooler. PWM control lets your motherboard automatically adjust fan speed based on temperature, which is super handy for keeping things quiet when your PC isn't working hard.
RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)
This tells you how fast the fan blades spin. Higher RPM generally means more airflow and static pressure, but also more noise. Think of it like the speed limit on a road – faster means you get there quicker, but it might be a bumpier ride.
CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)
This measures the volume of air the fan can move. It's like how many gallons of water a pump can move per minute. Higher CFM is better for general case ventilation, especially if you have an open case design.
Static Pressure (mm H2O)
This indicates the fan's ability to push air through resistance, like a radiator or a CPU heatsink's fins. Imagine trying to blow through a straw versus an open pipe – static pressure is how hard the fan can 'blow' through that straw. Higher numbers are better for radiators.
dBA (decibels A-weighted)
This is the noise level the fan produces. Lower dBA means a quieter fan. It's like the volume knob on your stereo; you want it low if you're trying to concentrate or game without distraction.
Alternatives
If these fans don't quite cut it, look for 120mm PWM ARGB fans with higher static pressure ratings (above 2.0 mm H2O) for better radiator performance, or lower dBA ratings (below 20 dBA) for a quieter build, even if it means a slightly higher price point.
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