Testing
The following system was used to test the fans:
– Processor: Intel i9 9900K @ 5GHz
– Motherboard: ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming X
– RAM: NeoForza Faye 64GB DDR4 @ 3600MHz
– GPU: MSI GeForce RTX 2070 Super Gaming X Trio
– SSD: Crucial P5 500GB
– HDD: GOODRAM IRDM 1TB SSD
– CPU Cooler: Cooler Master Master Liquid 240
– PSU: Seasonic Snow Silent 750W Platinum
– Case: be quiet! Silent Base 802 White
– Thermal compound: Noctua NT-H2
The testing of all fans is done with the i9 9900K CPU at maximum load with Intel Burn Test V2. All system fans and the tested fans are turned to their maximum speeds while the PC case has both side panels closed.
The 120mm fans has been tested using a 240mm CPU liquid cooler, the Cooler Master Master Liquid 240 at max. RPM.
The 140mm fans has been tested using a 280mm CPU liquid cooler, the NZXT Kraken X61 at max. RPM.
120mm Fan Performance
The noise level was measured at three different distances from the fans (10cm, 20cm, 30cm.) the noise was measured with a margin of error of ± 5 db.
Final thoughts
The be quiet! Shadow Wings 2 White is a good-looking fan that achieves something that is rarely seen these days, absolute silence even at maximum RPM. However, this comes at a price, this fan is not exactly a top performer, not even as a case fan, as there are models out there which are cheaper and deliver a better airflow.
From a price perspective, the be quiet! Shadow Wings 2 White is priced at 18 USD, and for comparison’s sake, the Noctua NF-P12 Redux is priced at 14 USD. This places the Shadow Wings 2 White in the big league while not offering a comparable airflow or static pressure. However, that does not make the Shadow Wings 2 White a bad fan, as this fan has what other models do not, silence.
The build quality is good and on the same level as other be quiet! fans. The plastic used is not brittle and the glossy texture is done well, with no uneven spots on the fan frame or impellers.
When we talk about performance, there’s plenty to say. First, this fan will not deliver as much airflow as the competition, however, what it does deliver is a low noise output even at its maximum RPM. Therefore, the Shadow Wings 2 White is ideal as a case fan for a silent build. However, if you want a fan that will deliver a good amount of airflow and be silent, then you need to look at other fans.
In conclusion, the Shadow Wings 2 White is a great low noise case fan that not only looks good but is well made. The all-white glossy texture is done well and will match with any system you can think of. While having a low noise output, the shortcoming of this fan is the average airflow, in addition, the price should be lower as for 18 USD, you can get fans that deliver more airflow.
