LogoBuyChoice
  • Features
  • Pricing
  • Products
  • Blog
  1. Home
  2. Products
  3. Power & Cooling
  4. Thermalright
Thermalright TL-C12C-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)
Thermalright

Thermalright TL-C12C-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)

4.7(2.0K+ reviews, all variants)
Amazon's Choicebudget$0-$49300+ bought in past month
#35 in Computer Case Fans
fan size
120mm
material
Plastic
connector
4-Pin
compatible
Desktop
cooling method
Air

Want the best price and purchase timing?

Our AI advisor analyzes real-time pricing across all channels to find you the best deal.

AI Verdict

A 5-pack of 120mm ARGB fans with 1550RPM, 66.17CFM, and 1.53mm H2O, ideal for budget builds needing multiple illuminated fans.

Situational Fit

These fans offer a high quantity of ARGB, PWM-controlled fans with decent airflow and static pressure for a low price, making them suitable for filling a case with lighting and basic cooling. However, reported noise issues and less premium ARGB diffusion mean they aren't for everyone.

If silence and top-tier ARGB quality are priorities, look for fans with lower dBA ratings and more advanced lighting diffusion technology.

Regret Score™

Medium Risk

Lower is better — measures purchase-regret risk from real buyer complaints, review credibility, and product maturity

28/100
vs. 1,285 Power & Cooling we've analyzedSafer than 41%
Hidden Defects
12/35

Issues discovered after purchase

Achilles' Heel
0/25

Critically weak dimension

Expectation Gap
7/20

Amazon rating vs actual quality

Fit Risk
9/20

Chance this product isn't for you

BuyChoice Score
3.3

Pros

  • Daisy-chaining for both 4-pin PWM power and 3-pin 5V ARGB simplifies wiring for multiple fans.
  • Offers up to 17 ARGB lighting modes, controllable via motherboard software.
  • Provides 66.17 CFM airflow and 1.53mm H2O static pressure at 1550 RPM, suitable for case and CPU cooling.
  • Features an S-FDB (Fluid Dynamic Bearing) for potentially longer lifespan and quieter operation.
  • Includes soft silicone corner pads for vibration and noise damping.

Cons

  • Some users report a humming or rattling noise developing after several months of use.
  • ARGB lighting can appear less vibrant or uneven towards the edges compared to higher-end fans.
  • The sticker on the fan hub might not be perfectly centered.
  • No clear warranty information is readily available.

Dimension Scores

Efficiency & Output7/10

The fans provide 66.17 CFM airflow and 1.53mm H2O static pressure at 1550 RPM, which is above average for their budget price point.

Noise Level5/10

Rated at 25.6dBA max, which is average, but user reports of potential motor whine or rattling at lower RPMs pull the score down.

Build Quality5/10

Includes an S-FDB bearing, a premium feature, but some users report rattling issues after a few months, and the hub sticker can be off-center.

Cable Management8/10

The daisy-chaining functionality for both 4-pin PWM and 3-pin ARGB is excellent for simplifying cable routing in a multi-fan setup.

Best For

  • Budget PC builds requiring multiple ARGB case fans.
  • Systems with limited motherboard fan or ARGB headers due to daisy-chaining capability.
  • Users prioritizing visual aesthetics with functional cooling on a tight budget.
  • Filling a case with fans for general airflow and basic CPU cooler pairing.

Not Recommended For

  • Silence-focused PC builds where any motor noise is unacceptable.
  • Users expecting premium, evenly diffused ARGB lighting effects.
  • Long-term 24/7 operation where potential noise development is a critical concern.

Watch Out For

  • Some users report that fans can develop a noticeable humming or rattling noise after a few months of operation.
  • The ARGB lighting, while functional, may not be as vibrant or evenly diffused towards the fan edges as more expensive alternatives.
  • The sticker on the fan hub might be off-center, which can be an aesthetic issue for some users.
  • There is no readily available warranty information, which could be a concern for long-term reliability.

Full Specifications

UPC764035266502
ASINB0D9NRRZQL
BrandThermalright
Voltage12 Volts
MaterialPlastic
Item Weight1.68 pounds
Noise Level25.6 Decibels
ManufacturerTHERMALRIGHT
Cooling MethodAir
Number of Items1
Air Flow Capacity66.17 Cubic Feet Per Minute
Item model numberTL-C12C-S X5 D6
Compatible DevicesDesktop
Product Dimensions4.72"L x 4.72"W x 0.98"H
Power Connector Type4-Pin
Maximum Rotational Speed1550 RPM

What Buyers Say

Many users are surprised by the value proposition of these fans, getting a 5-pack of ARGB PWM fans for a very low price. The daisy-chaining functionality is frequently praised for simplifying installation and cable management. However, a recurring concern is the potential for some fans to develop a humming or rattling noise after a few months of use, and the ARGB lighting, while functional, isn't always as vibrant or evenly diffused as higher-end options.

“Dude, for like five bucks a fan, these light up my whole case and actually push air. Yeah, one of 'em started making a little hum after a while, but I just swapped it out. Still worth it for the price.”

Common Praise

  • Daisy-chaining for both 4-pin PWM and 3-pin ARGB simplifies wiring and reduces cable clutter.
  • The fans move a significant amount of air for their price, contributing to effective cooling.
  • ARGB lighting is functional and offers 17 modes, adding visual appeal to builds.
  • The inclusion of an S-FDB bearing is considered a premium feature for the budget price.
  • The fans are perceived as a 'no-brainer' for budget builds needing ARGB and PWM control.

Common Complaints

  • Some fans develop a noticeable humming or rattling noise after several months of use.
  • ARGB lighting can appear less vibrant or uneven towards the edges compared to more expensive fans.
  • The hub sticker on the fan can be off-center, affecting aesthetics.
  • Noise issues are sometimes more apparent at lower RPMs.

Ownership Tips

  • Noise issues are sometimes more prevalent at lower RPMs, requiring careful fan curve adjustment.
  • The included cables are 55cm long, which is generally sufficient for routing in most cases.
  • The standard 5V 3-pin ARGB connection ensures compatibility with most motherboards without needing proprietary hubs.
  • Despite the low price, the fans feel reasonably well-made with minimal flex in the frame.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these fans quiet?

They are rated at 25.6dBA maximum, but some users report a humming or rattling noise, especially at lower RPMs.

Can I connect multiple fans easily?

Yes, they feature daisy-chaining for both 4-pin PWM power and 3-pin 5V ARGB, allowing multiple fans to connect to a single header.

Do they work with CPU coolers?

Yes, with 1.53mm H2O air pressure and 66.17CFM airflow, they are suitable for both case cooling and pairing with CPU coolers or radiators.

What kind of RGB do they have?

They have 5V 3-pin ARGB lighting with up to 17 modes, which can be controlled by the motherboard.

What is the fan speed?

The fans have a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, controlled automatically via a 4-pin PWM connection.

Buying Guide

When buying case fans, you're looking for a balance of airflow, static pressure, and noise. Airflow (CFM) tells you how much air the fan moves, important for general case ventilation. Static pressure (mm H2O) indicates how well the fan pushes air through resistance, like a radiator or a dense dust filter. PWM control lets your motherboard adjust fan speed based on temperature, keeping things quieter when your system isn't working hard.

Air Flow (66.17 CFM)

This number tells you how much air the fan can move. Higher CFM means more air circulation in your case, which helps cool down all your components. Think of it like how much wind a mini-fan can generate.

Air Pressure (1.53mm H2O)

This measures how well the fan pushes air through obstacles, like the fins of a CPU cooler or a radiator. If you're putting fans on a radiator, you want a higher static pressure to force air through those tight spaces.

Noise (25.6dBA)

This is how loud the fan gets at its maximum speed. Lower dBA means a quieter PC. Keep in mind that this is usually a max rating, and fans can be much quieter at lower RPMs.

4-pin PWM / 3-pin 5V ARGB

PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) allows your motherboard to precisely control the fan's speed, making your PC quieter when idle. ARGB (Addressable RGB) means you can control each LED individually for complex lighting effects, unlike older RGB that only shows one color at a time.

Alternatives

If you need quieter operation or more consistent long-term performance, look for fans with lower dBA ratings, especially at lower RPMs, and from brands known for their quality control. If you prioritize premium ARGB effects, seek fans with more advanced diffusion or higher LED counts.

You Might Also Like

Micro ATX PC Case | Mini Tower Computer case | Pre-Installed 120mm*1 RGB Fan | ITX Desktop Chassis for MATX/ITX | 240 RAD | 280mm GPU | 160mm CPU Cooler Height - White S6
Situational
MAQUY

Micro ATX PC Case | Mini Tower Computer case | Pre-Installed 120mm*1 RGB Fan | ITX Desktop Chassis for MATX/ITX | 240 RAD | 280mm GPU | 160mm CPU Cooler Height - White S6

$0-$49
120mmMicro ATXAir

This MAQUY S6 is a budget Micro ATX case with a pre-installed 120mm RGB fan, supporting 280mm GPUs and 240mm top radiators for entry-level builds.

Micro ATX Case, Mini PC ITX Desktop Computer Case MATX Case Support ATX PSU/250mm GPU/135mm CPU Cooler/1x 3.5’’HDD or 2X 2.5’’SSD/USB 3.0 Port
Situational
Iesooy

Micro ATX Case, Mini PC ITX Desktop Computer Case MATX Case Support ATX PSU/250mm GPU/135mm CPU Cooler/1x 3.5’’HDD or 2X 2.5’’SSD/USB 3.0 Port

$0-$49
250mmMetalMicro ATX

This is a compact 38.5x19.5x32.5cm Micro ATX case supporting 250mm GPUs and 135mm CPU coolers, designed for budget workstation builds.

Small PC Case, ITX Mini Computer Case with 360 Degree Ventilation, 10.5L Compact Design for ITX Motherboard, SFX Power Supply, 4 x 2.5 Inch SSDs
Situational
Wisoqu

Small PC Case, ITX Mini Computer Case with 360 Degree Ventilation, 10.5L Compact Design for ITX Motherboard, SFX Power Supply, 4 x 2.5 Inch SSDs

$50-$99
170mm

This 10.5L acrylic ITX case supports SFX/SFX-L PSUs, ITX motherboards, and GPUs up to 210mm, designed for compact builds.

Micro ATX PC Case | Mini Tower Computer case Support Vertical GPU Mount | Pre-Installed 120mm*1 RGB Fan | ITX Desktop Chassis for MATX/ITX | 240 RAD | 320mm GPU | 165mm CPU Cooler Height-Black
Situational
MAQUY

Micro ATX PC Case | Mini Tower Computer case Support Vertical GPU Mount | Pre-Installed 120mm*1 RGB Fan | ITX Desktop Chassis for MATX/ITX | 240 RAD | 320mm GPU | 165mm CPU Cooler Height-Black

$0-$49
120mmAlloy Steel, Tempered GlassMicro ATX, Mini ITX

A budget Micro ATX case with a mesh front, tempered glass, and support for 320mm GPUs and 240mm AIOs, but only one pre-installed 120mm RGB fan.

LogoBuyChoice

Avoid bad products before you buy. Real data. Zero bias.

GitHubX (Twitter)BlueskyYouTube
Built withLogo of MkSaaSMkSaaS
Product
  • Features
  • Pricing
  • FAQ
Resources
  • Blog
  • Changelog
  • Roadmap
Company
  • About
  • Contact
  • Waitlist
Legal
  • Cookie Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
© 2026 BuyChoice. All Rights Reserved.