There are two types of fans available for your PC. First are the high airflow fans, which basically push as much air as possible. That is not what we’re interested in for this review, though; we are interested in static pressure fans.
Why?
If you’re looking for a fan suitable for use with a radiator, or a case with mesh or dust filters, this is what you are going to need. Static pressure fans use a different fin design that assists with combating heightened impedance and resistance.
So, let’s take a look at the best static pressure fans currently on the market and find the perfect one for your PC…
Contents
- 1 Top 5 Best Static Pressure Fans In 2023 Review
- 1.1 1 Corsair ML140 Premium – Best Magnetic Levitation Static Pressure Fan
- 1.2 2 Arctic P12 PWM PST – Best Double Bearing Static Pressure Fan
- 1.3 3 Corsair ML120 – Best 2,000 RPM Static Pressure Fan
- 1.4 4 Noctua NF-F12 iPPC 3000 – Best Industrial Strength Static Pressure Fan
- 1.5 5 Phanteks PH-F200SP – Best Large Static Pressure Fan
- 2 Best Static Pressure Fans Buying Guide
- 3 Wanna See Some Other Brilliant PC Gear?
- 4 So, Which Is The Best Of These Best Static Pressure Fans?
Top 5 Best Static Pressure Fans In 2023 Review
1 Corsair ML140 Premium – Best Magnetic Levitation Static Pressure Fan
Back in 2012, Corsair released the first SP (Static Pressure) and AF (Air Flow) fans to a receptive PC crowd. This technology has come a long way since then, especially with how the motor performs and sounds.
Corsair has completely redesigned the motor, replacing it with magnetic levitation technology. This creates an essentially silent fan, with the noise reduced to what is created by the airflow only in this 140mm fan.
And that’s not all…
Not only does magnetic levitation technology offer quieter operation, but it also extends the lifespan of the fan. A 1,600 RPM control range lets the user choose between absolutely silent operation and full power performance.
The only thing required to install one of these attractive black and white fans is an available 4 pin connector on your motherboard. If there is an even number of available pin connectors, then you can take advantage of the value twin pack.
Custom rotor design…
Corsair’s custom rotor design means that your fan outputs the perfect balance of high static pressure and high airflow. No matter what type of radiator, mesh, or dust filters need contending with, you can be assured of efficient performance.
While these fans are a little more expensive than other competitors, their quality and performance justify it. If you have spent up big on quality components for your PC build, don’t compromise on your fan quality either.
(4.7 / 5)Pros
- Magnetic levitation technology.
- Incredibly quiet operation.
- 1,600 RPM control range.
Cons
- More expensive than competitors.
- Only available in black and white.
2 Arctic P12 PWM PST – Best Double Bearing Static Pressure Fan
Choosing the name Arctic for a fan manufacturer was a good choice. It immediately gives you the impression of being blown away by an intense chill. Luckily Arctic has a great range of fans that do a great job of living up to those expectations.
Right now, we are taking a look at Arctic’s P12 PWM PST. It is available in either black with solid or transparent black fins, or white also with solid or transparent fins. You can purchase them singularly or also as part of a five pack.
Getting your bearings…
Arctic has elected to go with a dual bearing design that allows for continuous operation. If you like to take part in marathon sessions on your rig, these fans are up to the task. This is courtesy of the premium Japanese bearings that can withstand both temperature and dust.
Similar to the Corsair fan, these Arctic P12’s are powered by a magnetic ring as a motor. The result is a saving of energy and a lowering of the coil temperature. That is, of course, in addition to the quiet operation compared to a traditional fan motor.
Static pressure optimization…
When the team at Arctic was developing the P12, a particular emphasis was placed on the airstream. They were able to achieve an increased airflow, even with resistance, without having to compromise on cooling capabilities.
By using a PWM connection, a wide range of regulation is offered. Choose between 200 and 1800 RPM that can be controlled along with your other fans in full synchronization. It’s up to you if you would prefer quiet operation or full performance.
(4.7 / 5)Pros
- Four different design choices.
- Double Japanese bearings.
- Magnetic ring motor.
Cons
- Black fan comes with silver screws.
- No frills design.
3 Corsair ML120 – Best 2,000 RPM Static Pressure Fan
The best static pressure fans can sometimes be the baby in the family. Now we have already taken a look at the larger 140mm Corsair ML fan. And they are that good that we thought we should include the 120mm model too. Corsair uses the same technology as its larger counterpart in a more compact design.
There are some subtle differences, but overall these two products are almost identical. We will try to take you through anything we may have missed with the 140mm models and also cover the key differences.
What is the primary difference?
The first notable difference is the maximum RPM these 120mm fans are capable of. They can squeeze out an extra 400 RPM at full speed to a maximum of 2,000 RPM. Of course, this can still be controlled using the PWM connection.
The other major difference, of course, is the size. This smaller rendition measures 4.8 x 2.2 x 5.9 inches (122 x 56 x 150 millimeters). So, even if you have a tighter case or want to squeeze extra fans against that radiator, you can still enjoy the Corsair MLs.
Same great technology…
The good news is that you still retain the Magnetic Levitation technology that provides incredible efficiency and silent operation. Those custom rotors have also been scaled down to fit the more petite 120mm frame too.
Black and white is the same color pattern here again as well. Although you don’t have a choice in color, the design is still very smart and attractive. Besides, black and white go with basically everything.
(4.7 / 5)Pros
- Same great technology in a smaller design.
- Magnetic Levitation technology.
- Up to 2,000 RPM controllable range.
Cons
- Not as affordable as other options.
- Only available in black and white.
4 Noctua NF-F12 iPPC 3000 – Best Industrial Strength Static Pressure Fan
Noctua is well known for producing quiet, high-end cooling components for PC enthusiasts. It’s little wonder that another one of their products has made it to our “best” lists. This time we take a gander at the NF-F12 static pressure fan.
Not only does this fan carry on with the silent and high-end characteristics we have come to expect from Noctua, but this is also what they consider heavy-duty. This is an enhanced version of the regular model, so let’s find out how.
3-phases are better than 1…
Most motors use a single-phase with four slots. The iPPC uses 3-phases with six slots. This allows for smoother transitions between the slots. The results are smoother running, reduced vibrations, and increased energy efficiency.
To protect those state-of-the-art motors is IP52 certified water and dust protection. This is achieved by using a special varnish coating around the motor and PCB. Up to 3mm a minute of dripping water, along with superior dust resistance, can be repelled.
Industrial strength 3,000 RPM…
Noctua’s iPPC fan runs twice as fast as the regular 1,500 RPM version. A maximum of 3,000 RPM can be cranked up. We told you this was heavy-duty. With industrial-strength, this is the perfect fan for even the most high-spec builds.
With all that power, some solid construction is required. Both the impeller and the frame are made from fiberglass-reinforced polyamide. Brute strength isn’t the only advantage; these components can withstand heat too. You can basically consider this fan as break-proof.
(4.7 / 5)Pros
- 3-phase motor with six slots.
- IP52 certified dust and water resistance.
- 3,000 RPM industrial speeds.
Cons
- Higher cost than other products.
- Noctua color schemes are a required taste.
5 Phanteks PH-F200SP – Best Large Static Pressure Fan
Our final product here is also the largest. This 200mm fan from Phanteks has been specifically designed to overcome high static pressure. There has additionally been a focus on blade deflection and noise reduction.
This fan looks very simple compared to the other products here with its minimalistic frame design. The very slim black frame houses a large nine blade white-colored fan. Great as an upgrade or for achieving excellent airflow around your new build.
Huge airflow, tiny noise…
Airflow for the Phanteks can reach 110.1 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) while only producing 25 decibels of noise. With the average whisper being measured at around 30 decibels, you can comfortably call this fan whisper quiet.
As with most of the other products here, Phanteks has opted for the magnetic brushless motor. Besides, the quiet operation and efficiency magnetic motors are known for, another advantage is rotational stability.
Stuck in a vortex…
The blades on the Phanteks PH-F200SP have been designed to create a vortex. By creating this vortex, it allows for a greater amount of air passage and reduced turbulence. This creates better performance and airflow at quieter noise levels.
Phanteks uses a UFB (Updraft Floating Balance) bearing composed by MOSS and SSC systems. An effective hub-tip ratio achieves a state of equilibrium, reducing air and vibration noise while increasing the bearing’s lifespan.
(4.6 / 5)Pros
- High airflow of 110.1 CFM.
- Quiet 25db operation.
- Magnetic brushless motor.
Cons
- 3-pin connector instead of regular 4-pin.
- Only one size screw set is included.
Best Static Pressure Fans Buying Guide
No matter if you’re looking for an upgrade to your cooling system or you’re completing a fresh build. The correct cooling solution is critical, and the fans are often an overlooked aspect in PCs.
There’s absolutely no point in going out and spending loads of hard-earned cash on high-end components, then cheaping out on a fan. All of these products here are great value, but which one is the best fit for you?
The best fit is…
Obviously, you will need a fan that will fit inside your case or be attached to your radiator. Generally, 120mm fans will do the job, and you can usually fit multiples for that extra boost in cooling rather than a single larger fan.
There is plenty of choice in the 120mm range, including the Arctic, Corsair, and the Noctua. All of them are capable of providing a superb cooling solution; however, the extra dollars on the Noctua does offer industrial-strength performance.
Spinning speed…
Each of these fans has different maximum RPM capabilities. Depending on what other components you have inside your rig will determine how fast your fan needs to spin. While 1,600 RPM is fine for most applications, you may need something a bit stronger.
Let’s explain…
If you are running a high-core processor with multiple threads or even a GPU pushing out 4K, you need some serious cooling. In that case, we would recommend either the Corsair ML120 at 2,000 RPM or the Noctua NF-F12 at an astonishing 3,000 RPM.
Next up, we reveal our choice for the best static pressure fan and why we’ve reached that decision. So if you’re still stuck deciding, or are just interested to know, stick around.
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Broke but want 4K? We’ve got you! Read our Best Cheap 4K Monitors Under 300 Review for 2023!
OK, back to the best SP fans for gaming…
So, Which Is The Best Of These Best Static Pressure Fans?
While it might not be the most attractive product out of all the ones here on this list, it also isn’t the cheapest product either. In fact, it is the most expensive. By now, we may have given away our choice, so we might as well reveal it.
We believe the best overall static pressure fan is the…
Noctua NF-F12 iPPC 3000It does, however, offer the best performance with premium materials and superior craftsmanship. We think the extra cost is most certainly worth it.
Enjoy.
