I need a case fan for a compy i built recently. Is there realistically any difference in which one I choose? (other than size, 120mm) I figure some will be quieter, but does it make a difference to pay $10 more for one or another?

12/27/2006 3:45:45 PM

CFM is the amount of air the fan pushes (performance), but that means faster rpm's which increase noise. So you have to decide what is more important to you.

Ball bearing fans are quieter than regular fans, but double ball bearings are even better. Popular quiet brands of fans are Panaflo, Nexus Real Silent, and Papst. Other good mentions are Yate-Loon (certain models), Vantec Stealth, and Zalman.

But there is a huge difference in noise between 80mm and 120mm. I recommend the 120mm. And get a fan controller of some sort (can be motherboard controlled or Zalman Fanmate or something).

12/27/2006 5:41:16 PM

thanks i'll look into that

12/27/2006 5:43:23 PM