Are you looking to upgrade your PC and make sure it runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible? One often overlooked component of PC maintenance and upkeep is the case fan. While they may not seem important, having too small or too large a fan can slow down your cooling system and even damage components if there’s an issue.
Whether you have an ATX or Mini-ITX case, finding the perfect fan for both cooling performance and sound level can be quite tricky due to their wide range in sizes, from 40mm up to 200mm!
So what are the different computer case fan sizes available In this blog post, we’ll be looking at 40mm fans all the way up to 200 mm fans so you can find out which size is best for your build!
What are a computer case fan and its importance?
A computer case fan is a cooling solution that helps to keep your PC’s components cool. They are made up of blades which spin around and draw in air, then push the air out of the case. This helps to reduce the temperature inside the case and prevent overheating.
The type of fan you should choose depends on your needs; if you’re looking for a silent system, look for low-noise fans with rubberized blades and less powerful motors, or go for high airflow designs if you’re after maximum cooling potential. High static pressure fans are best used in radiators or heatsinks as they can generate lots of air pressure to help dissipate heat faster.
Case fans come in different sizes, from 40mm all the way up to 200mm, and each size has its own advantages and disadvantages. Generally speaking, the larger fans will be able to move more air, but they will also be louder than smaller fans. It’s important to find the right balance between size and noise when choosing a fan for your build.
At the end of the day, it really depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a system that runs quietly, you’ll want to go for smaller fans, whereas if you’re looking for maximum cooling potential, then larger fans are the way to go. It’s all about finding the right balance between size, noise, and cooling performance.
What Are the Different Computer Case Fan Sizes?
1. 40mm Fans
Smaller 40mm fans are great for those with tight spaces, as they can fit into almost any digital computer. They generally run at higher RPMs to make up for their small size and can move a fair amount of air despite their size. These fans are perfect for making your PC completely silent, but won’t be able to provide enough airflow for optimal cooling performance.
This fan size is so less popular these days due to its low airflow.
2. 80mm Fans
80mm fans are slightly bigger than 40mm fans and offer more cooling potential without adding too much noise. Generally speaking, these are some of the most popular fan sizes used in PCs today due to their low noise levels and good cooling capabilities. 80 fan sizes used in PCs today due to their low noise levels and good cooling capabilities.
They can be used to provide cooling for CPUs, GPUs, and case fans. Mini Case, SFF, HTPCs are the common ones who prefer this fan size due to their smaller form factor.
3. 120mm Fans
The next step up from 80mm is 120mm fans, which offer a good balance between noise and cooling potential. These fans are popular in many cases due to their ability to move more air at lower RPMs than 80mm fans, meaning they can provide better cooling without adding too much extra noise.
120mm fans are generally used as case fans but can also be used for other components such as GPUs and processors. They’re great for those who want good cooling performance without having to deal with the loud noise of larger 140/200mm models.
4. 140mm Fans
140mm fans are the biggest in terms of size, but they don’t necessarily provide the best cooling performance. These fans offer better airflow than 120mm models, but they can be quite loud due to their larger size. That being said, they’re still a good option if you want maximum cooling potential without having to turn your PC into a jet engine!
Mid and Full tower PC cases usually prefer these fan size to maximize the airflow and cooling potential.
5. 200mm Fans
Last but not least, we have 200mm fans which are perfect for those who want maximum cooling with minimal noise. As these fans are so large, they can move huge amounts of air at very low RPMs compared to other fan sizes. This makes them ideal for large cases that require lots of airflow and silence!
200mm Fans are mainly made for Specialized cases. And they are not that popular. You should get 200mm fans only if you are getting the designed case for that.
How to determine the size of the fan you need?
When it comes to determining the size of fan you need, there are a few factors to consider.
Firstly, consider your case’s internal dimensions as this will determine what fan sizes can fit inside. Secondly, think about how much cooling performance you require and whether or not noise is an issue. Lastly, always make sure that the fan you choose has the correct mounting holes for your case.
Once you’ve taken all these factors into account, then you should have no problem finding the right fan size for your needs!
Overall, there’s a wide variety of computer case fans available today ranging from 40mm to 200mm. Each size has its own advantages and disadvantages so choosing the right one depends on your individual needs. If you’re looking for something that runs quietly while providing good cooling performance, then 80mm and 120mm fans are perfect. If you need maximum cooling potential without the noise, then 200mm
How to install a new computer case fan?
Once you’ve decided on the size of fan you need, it’s time to install it. Installing a new case fan can be quite easy but there are a few steps you should follow for best results:
1. Start by unscrewing the existing fan from your personal computer case. Be sure to unplug any cables connected to the fan before removing it.
2. Install the new fan according to its instructions and make sure all mounting screws are tight and secure.
3. Connect the new fan’s power supply cable to an available connector on your motherboard or power supply unit (PSU).
4. Finally, plug in any other necessary cables and test out your new fan!
Installing a new computer fan is an easy process and should only take a few minutes. Just remember to be careful while handling the delicate components, and don’t forget to power off your system before performing any work. With some basic knowledge and preparation, you’ll have your new fan up and running in no time!
Final Words
Different PC cases come with different fan sizes such as 60mm, 80mm, 92mm, 120mm, 140mm, and 200mm – each of which is capable of different levels of cooling performance. It is important to select the right fan size for your case in order to ensure that you will be able to provide enough airflow for optimal cooling performance.
Choosing the right computer fan size can be a tricky process, but it’s important to make sure you have the best setup for your needs. Consider factors such as noise levels, cooling performance, and internal dimensions of your case before deciding on the fan size that is right for you.
- Related: Noctua NF-A14 (Premium Quiet Fan, 4-Pin 140mm) Review.
- How Much Electricity Does A Computer Use? » (Electricity Consumption of Computer Explained).
I hope this guide has helped you understand the different sizes of fans available for use in PCs today. If you have any further questions about choosing or installing a case fan, please feel free to comment!
With these tips in mind, you should have no problem finding the perfect fit for your system! Good luck!
