Testing
The following system was used to test the fans:
– Processor: Intel i9 9900K @ 5GHz
– Motherboard: ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming X
– RAM: GOODRAM IRDM PRO 16GB DDR4 @ 3600MHz
– GPU: MSI GeForce RTX 2070 Super Gaming X Trio
– SSD: Crucial P2 500GB
– HDD: WD 1 TB Blue
– CPU Cooler: SilverStone Permafrost PF240W-ARGB
– 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 overclocked to 5GHz 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 SilverStone Permafrost PF240W-ARGB 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 Silverstone AirBlazer 120RW is a good fan that offers not only a good performance but it looks great. This is especially due to the white color which enhances the overall aesthetic of the RGB illumination.
While the performance of this fan is good, the noise output is high, at around 41 db. This is thanks to the high maximum speed. In truth, at 2200 RPM, only a few fans can be reasonably quiet, and those are expensive.
The build quality is very good, the impellers and the fan hub have a good surface and the RGB LED light is even across the surface. The frame of this fan is also solid and has no leftover marks from the manufacturing process.
The biggest drawback of this fan is the high noise output and the price. At close to 20USD, there are fans that are quieter and perform close on both radiators and as a case fan.
In conclusion, the Silverstone AirBlazer 120RW is a good all-purpose fan that looks great. The white color of the frame and impellers enhance the RGB LEDs installed inside the hub. The performance is good and the bearing used is reliable. However, the drawbacks of this fan are the high noise output and the high price.
