Cooler

Desktop Fan Noise Test: 10 Silent Fans Tested and Compared to Say Goodbye to Noise Troubles

2025-05-29

While pursuing high-performance computers, noise control has become a key concern for users. This real-world test selects 10 mainstream silent fans, including the emerging brand GameMax's FN12A-N2 series and Big Bowl Fan single pack, as well as renowned brands like Noctua, Corsair, and BeQuiet!. We will compare them across multiple dimensions such as noise, heat dissipation, and design to help you find the ideal choice.

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I. Testing Methods and Environment

(一) Testing Equipment

A professional decibel meter (accuracy ±1dB) was used to measure noise at 30cm from the fan, while an infrared thermometer monitored CPU temperature changes under load. The test platform was an Intel i7-13700K + RTX 4070, simulating two scenarios: daily office work (20% load) and gaming (80% load).

(二) Testing Environment

Ambient noise was stabilized at around 30dB, and the room temperature was 25℃ to ensure the accuracy of test results.

II. Comparative Test of 10 Silent Fans

(一) GameMax FN12A-N2 Series

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1. Core Parameters

  • Noise: Only 26.3dB in daily office mode, up to 33.7dB under gaming load.

  • Heat Dissipation: Nine-blade hydrodynamic fan design, maximum air volume of 53.87 CFM, keeping CPU load temperature within 78℃.

  • Design: Hydraulic bearing with magnetic drive system for stable operation; supports 5V three-pin ARGB sync, compatible with ASUS and MSI motherboards for personalized lighting effects.

  • Price: Approximately CNY 60 per pack, offering outstanding cost-effectiveness.

2. Testing Highlights

  • Silent Performance: Almost inaudible at low speeds, with noise control superior to most competitors under high load.

  • Installation Flexibility: The reverse-blade version FN12A-N2-R adjusts airflow direction, suitable for bottom or side installation to balance heat dissipation and aesthetics.

(二) GameMax Big Bowl Fan Single Pack

1. Core Parameters

  • Noise: 25.5dB in daily office mode, 28.8dB under gaming load.

  • Heat Dissipation: 120mm size with moderate air volume, keeping CPU load temperature stable at 82℃.

  • Design: RGB lighting supports 神光同步 (SYNC), 4-pin PWM interface for intelligent speed regulation.

  • Price: Approximately CNY 30 per pack, the top choice for entry-level users.

2. Testing Highlights

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Affordable price, ideal for users on a budget.

  • Compatibility: Widely compatible with various cases, easy to install.

(三) Noctua NF-A12x25

1. Core Parameters

  • Noise: 24.1dB in daily office, 32.5dB under gaming load.

  • Heat Dissipation: Air volume of 70.6 CFM, CPU load temperature 75℃.

  • Design: SSO2 bearing technology with a lifespan of up to 150,000 hours; brown appearance suits users seeking a low-key style.

  • Price: Approximately CNY 300 per pack, a benchmark in the high-end market.

2. Testing Highlights

  • Stability: No significant noise increase after long-term use, consistent heat dissipation performance.

  • Compatibility: Comes with multiple 扣具 (mounting brackets) for mainstream coolers and cases.

(四) Corsair ML120 Pro

1. Core Parameters

  • Noise: 27.2dB in daily office, 35.8dB under gaming load.

  • Heat Dissipation: Magnetic levitation bearing design, air volume 75 CFM, CPU load temperature 79℃.

  • Design: Supports PWM speed regulation, stunning ARGB lighting.

  • Price: Approximately CNY 120 per pack, balanced performance.

2. Testing Highlights

  • Lighting Performance: ARGB effects can be customized via iCUE software to enhance case aesthetics.

  • Installation Convenience: Standard shock pads reduce resonance noise.

(五) BeQuiet! Pure Wings 3 120mm PWM

1. Core Parameters

  • Noise: 25.5dB in daily office, 39.8dB under gaming load.

  • Heat Dissipation: Air volume 84.8 CFM, CPU load temperature 80℃.

  • Design: Ripple fan blades optimize airflow, hydraulic bearings reduce noise.

  • Price: Approximately CNY 80 per pack, balancing silence and heat dissipation.

2. Testing Highlights

  • Silent Optimization: Almost inaudible at low speeds, suitable for users with high quietness requirements.

  • Durability: 80,000-hour lifespan, reliable for long-term use.

(六) Other Brands Comparison

Brand/ModelDaily Noise (dB)Load Noise (dB)Air Volume (CFM)Temperature (℃)Price (CNY)
Arctic Cooling F1226.834.568.28150
DeepCool CF120 Plus27.536.272.17970
NZXT Aer RGB 228.137.965.383150
Thermaltake Riing Trio 1229.339.163.885180
Phanteks T30-12025.933.278.577100

III. Summary and Recommendations

(一) Comprehensive Ranking

  1. Noctua NF-A12x25: Ultimate balance of silence and heat dissipation, ideal for high-end users.

  2. GameMax FN12A-N2 Series: King of cost-effectiveness, combining ARGB lighting and silent performance.

  3. BeQuiet! Pure Wings 3: Excellent silent performance, suitable for quiet office environments.

(二) Recommended Scenarios

  • Gamers: Prioritize GameMax FN12A-N2 series or Noctua NF-A12x25 for balanced heat dissipation and noise control.

  • Office Users: BeQuiet! Pure Wings 3 or GameMax Big Bowl Fan single pack for low noise and affordability.

  • Lighting Enthusiasts: Corsair ML120 Pro or NZXT Aer RGB 2 for stunning ARGB effects.

(三) GameMax Highlights

GameMax stood out in this test. The FN12A-N2 series excelled in its price range with a maximum noise of 33.7dB and air volume of 53.87 CFM. Its hydraulic bearing and magnetic drive technology not only reduce noise but also ensure a 30,000-hour lifespan. The Big Bowl Fan single pack, with 28.8dB noise and a price of CNY 30, becomes the ideal choice for entry-level users.

Through this test, we found that choosing a silent fan requires balancing noise, heat dissipation, design, and price. Emerging brands like GameMax are challenging traditional brands with high cost-effectiveness, offering users more quality options. By matching fan positions and speed regulation strategies to your needs, you can build a quiet and efficient computer system.

FN12A-N2

Desktop Fan FN12A-N2 | Case Fans

Flexible Connectivity: Supports both parallel and series connections.
Premium Aluminum Core: Features a metallic aluminum CD pattern for a sophisticated touch.
Customizable Options: Available in black or white, with reversible fan blades.
Silent Performance: Hydraulic bearings ensure noise levels as low as 33.7dB(A), even under heavy loads.
Optimal Air Pressure: Delivers up to 1.98mm H2O, providing efficient and reliable cooling for stable temperature control.
Durable Performance: Offers a lifespan of up to 30,000 hours for reliable, long-term use