Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Features
• Performance
• Pros & Cons
• Final Verdict

Introduction

The F140 RGB Core 140mm fan (model number RF-C14SF-B1) promises a compelling blend of vibrant RGB lighting and effective cooling. Having spent several weeks putting this fan through its paces in various system configurations, I’m ready to share my comprehensive review. From its initial setup to its performance under load, I’ll delve into the details to help you decide if it’s the right addition to your PC build.

Features

The F140 RGB Core boasts a number of key features designed to improve both aesthetics and cooling capabilities. The hub-mounted RGB LEDs provide a visually stunning effect, customizable through various software (though compatibility needs further investigation – more on that later). The stated 1500 RPM speed and 90.79 CFM airflow promise to keep even demanding components cool. The fluid dynamic bearing is intended for quieter operation and a longer lifespan. Finally, the sleek black design blends seamlessly into most PC builds.

Performance

My testing involved monitoring temperatures under both idle and load conditions using various benchmarks. I initially installed the RF-C14SF-B1 as an exhaust fan in a mid-tower case housing a Ryzen 7 5800X and an RTX 3070. Under load (using Cinebench R23 and a demanding gaming session), I saw a noticeable improvement in CPU and GPU temperatures compared to my previous fan setup. The difference was approximately 5-7°C, which is a significant drop. The fan itself remained relatively quiet, even at its maximum speed. I did, however, notice a slight whine at higher RPMs in a completely silent room. This was only noticeable under extreme load, however.

The RGB lighting was vivid and consistent across all LEDs. Software control would be greatly appreciated for more precise customization. Initial setup was straightforward; the fan was easily plugged into my motherboard’s fan header and the RGB header. No additional software installation was required to get it running.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Effective cooling, vibrant RGB lighting, relatively quiet operation, easy installation.
• Cons: Slight whine at maximum speed in quiet environments, lack of dedicated software control.

Final Verdict

The F140 RGB Core (RF-C14SF-B1) provides a solid balance of performance and aesthetics. The cooling performance is a definite highlight, noticeably improving temperatures under load. While a slight high-RPM whine exists, it’s not a major concern for most users. The lack of dedicated software for RGB control is a minor drawback, though, as manual motherboard control is limiting.

Overall, I would recommend the F140 RGB Core to anyone looking for a reliable 140mm fan with excellent cooling capabilities and eye-catching RGB illumination. It’s an excellent value for its price point.