Gather insights and engage in conversations about premium water cooling and hardware solutions.
Gather insights and engage in conversations about premium water cooling and hardware solutions.
That's why I mentioned 'or HP-12s' based on the radiator size he chose....
The fan specifications are usually carefully selected, so I don't really rely on them unless I've used them firsthand.
I tested the Vardars when they came out and they were pretty loud (140mm), that's just my opinion.
If they've made any changes, go for it, but I personally don't like them.
That's the reason I mentioned 'or HP-12s' based on the radiator size he chose.... It seems your previous comment didn't mention anything about radiator dimensions. Without any clarification, it suggests the HP-14 could fit his previously selected 120mm triple radiator.
Chugalug_:
Fan specifications are usually carefully chosen, though maybe not always. On some models, perhaps. The fans from EK match their descriptions well. You can find my evaluations in my official review for EK's Performance kits (link I mentioned earlier).
Chugalug_:
I don't really have confidence in them unless I've used them myself. I understand that point. But since I've used them a lot, I can say they handle airflow, pressure, and noise quite effectively—especially after using a Noctua D15 cooler extensively.
Chugalug_:
I tested the Vardars when they came out, and they were pretty loud (140mm). That's just my experience. A bigger fan tends to be noisier at the same speed. It can move more air at the same RPM, so it doesn't have to spin as fast to provide adequate airflow for the setup.
Chugalug_:
If they've been updated or changed, that's fine. But personally, I don't like them. Any fan that runs at 2000 RPM or higher will be loud. A F3-140 running at half speed (about 1000 RPM) is almost silent from three feet away. Put it in a case and it gets even quieter.
The Vardar versions (F1, F2, F3, etc.) offer higher maximum speeds and better PWM control. Noctua is known for quiet fans, but none of their standard 120mm or 140mm models exceed 1500 RPM. They excel at maximizing blade efficiency at lower speeds. To approach a model similar to the F4 Vardar, you'd need something like an NF-F12 PPPC-2000, which is just as noisy when running full speed.
I favor Noctua and Fractal Design fans because of their focus on low noise. The Define R4 is my top recommendation. But if your radiator is significantly thicker than most available, you should weigh static pressure against noise. For silence, consider thinner radiators (more units) or a push/pull fan setup. A push/pull fan on an XE 360 that's 110mm thick would require a case with about 4.5 inches of space to fit it properly.
The ER models offer the improved PWM range, allowing lower duty cycles down to 20%. As discussed, they won't operate quietly at maximum speed—such as 2200 RPM for the 120mm or 2000 for the 140mm, with even higher speeds possible using the F5 variant. The increased speed enables more air movement when needed, while the broad PWM range lets you fine-tune the fan speed to achieve the optimal balance between cooling and noise.
I’m also gathering components for a loop right now. I’m not sure enough about watercooling to offer advice there.
I just wanted to suggest the Noiseblockers B12 series of fans. They’re by far the best I’ve used. They handle static pressure well and really silence everything—even Noctua does. I have six B12-2s that are quiet, quieter than two Corsair AF-140s (that’s a strange comparison, but it was what I had at the time).
The B12-4s would be perfect for this build—they push a lot of air and likely stay quiet. If he’s after the ultimate PC setup, quality fans are essential.
As for the case, I think it should work fine. Was it an ATX or micro ATX model? I’m guessing it’s ATX. A few months ago I was planning a watercooling build because of its good space capacity and clever pump mounting, though I haven’t tried it yet.
Good luck with your project!
Ensure you obtain the ER models since they offer a superior PWM range (capable of down to 20% duty). As mentioned, they won't operate quietly at maximum speed—such as 2200 RPM for the 120mm or 2000 for the 140mm, with even higher speeds possible using the F5 variant. The increased speed allows more airflow when needed, and the broad PWM range lets you fine-tune the fan speed to achieve the ideal balance between cooling and noise.
Tomahok2:
I just wanted to suggest the Noiseblockers B12 series of fans. They are by far the best fans I've ever used. They perform well in terms of static pressure, and they really cut down noise—even against Noctua. Did you do any research before sharing this? You should compare all the specifications, not just the dBA. For example, comparing a Noctua P12 with a B12-2: both run at 1300 RPM, but the B12-2 is quieter at 16.7 dBA versus 19.8 for the Nocuta. However, the P12 offers much higher airflow and nearly double the static pressure. Since anything under 20 dBA is essentially silent, it doesn’t really matter.
Next, comparing a Noctua F12 with a B12-PS: both spin at 1500 RPM. The B12 is quieter by 1 dBA (21.2 to 22.4), but again, the Noctua has a significant advantage in pressure (2.61 mmH₂O to 1.475). As I haven’t tested the NB fans, I’m unsure if their noise levels match real-world performance.
RedJaron :
Tomahok2 :
I just wanted to suggest the Noiseblockers B12 series of fans. They truly stand out as the superior choice I've ever tried. They perform exceptionally well in terms of static pressure and really silence everything—even Noctua.
Have you done any research before sharing this? It's important to compare all specifications, not just the dBA. For example, comparing a Noctua P12 with a B12-2: both run at 1300 RPM, but the B12-2 is noticeably quieter at 16.7 dBA versus 19.8 for the Nocuta. Still, the Noctua model offers significantly higher airflow and nearly double the static pressure. Since anything under 20 dBA is essentially silent, it's not a big deal.
Next up, the Noctua F12 versus B12-PS. Both spin at 1500 RPM. The B12 is quieter by about 1 dBA (ranging from 21.2 to 22.4 dB), but again, the Noctua maintains a clear edge in pressure (2.61 mmH₂O vs 1.475). As I haven't tested the NB models, I can't confirm if their noise claims match real-world performance.
Tomahok2 :
I own six B12-2 units and they're remarkably quiet—quieter than many Corsair AF-140s. That's a 1300 RPM fan; these don’t generate much noise. There are definitely quieter options under 1500 RPM, but I'm curious about your setup. You seem to be assembling a loop, possibly for an air cooling system. Fans designed for airflow aren't always ideal for radiator use.
The B12-4s would be ideal for this build—they push a lot of air and likely stay quiet. If you're after the ultimate PC build, go for quality fans. There isn’t a B12-4S model available. Are you referring to multiple B12-4 units? The PS version wouldn't be great on a thinner radiator, but I’d still prefer the Noctua F12 and P12 over it. The PS would be fine with a 60mm radiator, but the B12-4 is much noisier. At 34.3 dBA, it’s the loudest fan mentioned so far. If you're okay with that volume for a radiator fan, the Vardar F4-120 offers better static pressure and is slightly quieter.
I was recommending the B12-4, though the 'S' was meant to be plural—it's a bit confusing. Since there’s also a B12-PS, I can’t personally endorse the 4-pin versions, as some users report unusual whining (though I might be mistaken).
Anyway...
I’ve put in a lot of effort researching fans, checking Martin’s reviews and numerous charts. The performance is solid, though not always the best in static pressure. What I appreciate most is their sound signature—dB isn’t the only metric. The B12 series generally sounds better than others at the same RPM, even if they’re louder. This holds true across the entire range, from B12-1 to B12-4.
I wouldn’t rely solely on manufacturer ratings, which is why Martin’s fan testing is so valuable. He provides both precise data and real-world listening experiences, helping you pick the most pleasant options. I’ve personally heard a few Noctua fans in person, and while they’re quiet, the Noiseblockers seem to offer a more pleasant experience (possibly due to their sound).
Performance-wise, the Noiseblockers aren’t the best for static pressure, but they perform adequately. In the chart I shared earlier, the Noctua NF-P12 at 1300 RPM achieved 21.9 cfm at 12V through a radiator, while the Noiseblocker B12-2 was slightly quieter at 18.9 cfm (28.8 dB). This reinforces my point about trusting manufacturer numbers—both brands have misled in the past.
These fans also look appealing compared to Noctua, come with two cable lengths, and are generally more affordable (best deals on PerformancePCs). They feel solid in hand and I’m consistently impressed by their quality.
I hope this clears any confusion. My goal is to support your decision confidently, even though I’ve spent many hours researching before recommending these models. Currently, they’re mainly used for air cooling, but I’m ready to use them in a watercooling project soon. While not the most popular choice, several users have successfully applied them there.
Edit: Regarding the Vardar fans, they seem decent. I opted against them for two reasons: first, the Noiseblockers look better, and second, I found their sound annoying. If you can hear them in person, that’s a good indicator. At least check out Martin’s videos for more insight.
Sound Signature: I know this might sound unusual, but when comparing fan noise, dB isn’t everything. I’m not trying to be condescending, just ensuring you and the OP understand my perspective.
Performance:
These fans don’t excel in static pressure, but they’re decent overall. In the chart I referenced, the Noctua NF-P12 at 1300 RPM achieved 21.9 cfm at 12V through a radiator, while the Noiseblocker B12-2 was slightly quieter at 18.9 cfm (28.8 dB). This highlights why it’s wise to trust real-world testing over manufacturer claims. Both brands have had their share of misrepresentation.
I believe the Noiseblocker lineup is more attractive compared to Noctua, and they offer better value with their design and price. I’m impressed by how well they hold up in my hands and consistently deliver when used properly.
I concur with RedJaron; static pressure and CFM are the primary considerations for water cooling, especially when using rads.
Sound is secondary to performance.
Chugalug_:
I share RedJaron's view; static pressure and CFM are key when evaluating water cooling systems, especially with rads in mind.
Noise is secondary to performance.
That makes sense, but I believe it’s important to note that the Noiseblockers handle static pressure adequately. Everyone has unique objectives for watercooling, and achieving optimal temperatures often requires more aggressive solutions than the Noiseblockers. Higher RPM Vardars excel here, while Deltas might be better suited if you're not sensitive to noise!