Corsair iCUE AF120 RGB SLIM 120mm PWM FDB Fan (CO-9050163-WW) Review

The Corsair iCUE AF120 RGB SLIM is a 120mm fan designed for pushing air through radiators and restrictive spaces. This review will dive into the features, performance, and overall value of these fans, giving you a comprehensive look at how they perform in real-world scenarios.

Table of Contents

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

Introduction

Corsair is known for its high-quality PC components, and the iCUE AF120 RGB SLIM fans are no exception. These fans are packed with features, including customizable RGB lighting, PWM control, and a fluid dynamic bearing (FDB) for near-silent operation. But how do they stack up against the competition? Let’s find out.

Features

The Corsair iCUE AF120 RGB SLIM offers a compelling package of features that cater to PC enthusiasts looking for both performance and aesthetics:

• Slim Design: With a 15mm thickness, these fans are ideal for fitting into tight spaces, like radiators or cases with limited clearance.
• RGB Lighting: The fans feature addressable RGB lighting that can be controlled through Corsair’s iCUE software, enabling you to sync them with other compatible components for a cohesive lighting scheme.
• PWM Control: The fans support PWM control, allowing them to dynamically adjust their speed based on system temperature for optimal cooling and noise reduction.
• Fluid Dynamic Bearing (FDB): FDBs provide smooth, quiet operation, making these fans well-suited for noise-sensitive builds.
• Static Pressure Flow Type: Optimized for pushing air through radiators and restrictive spaces, ensuring efficient cooling even in demanding scenarios.
• Zero RPM Mode: At low temperatures, the fans will automatically spin down to near-silent levels, reducing noise and energy consumption.

Performance

The Corsair iCUE AF120 RGB SLIM fans deliver on their promises, providing impressive airflow and near-silent operation.

Airflow and Static Pressure: In my testing, the fans generated ample airflow, pushing plenty of air through my radiator even at low speeds. The static pressure performance was also excellent, effectively pushing air through restrictive areas.

Noise Levels: The FDB bearing contributes significantly to the fans’ quiet operation. Even at full speed, the noise levels were very reasonable, remaining well below the advertised 27.5 dBA. In zero RPM mode, the fans were practically inaudible.

PWM Control and Zero RPM: The PWM control worked flawlessly, smoothly adjusting fan speed based on temperature. The Zero RPM mode was also a welcome feature, ensuring near-silent operation at idle and under light loads.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:
  • High airflow and static pressure for effective cooling
  • Quiet operation thanks to the FDB bearing and Zero RPM mode
  • Customizable RGB lighting for a visually appealing build
  • Slim design suitable for restrictive spaces
  • PWM control for efficient temperature management
• Cons:
  • Pricier than some other fans with similar features

Final Verdict

The Corsair iCUE AF120 RGB SLIM fans are a great choice for PC enthusiasts who prioritize airflow, quiet operation, and a touch of customization. While the price point is slightly higher than some competitors, the quality, performance, and features justify the investment. These fans are a solid choice for building a high-performing and visually appealing PC, especially if you’re planning to use them in restrictive spaces like radiators or cases with limited clearance. I highly recommend these fans!

Specifications