ARCTIC P12 PWM PST A-RGB - PC Fan vs NZXT F120 RGB Core - RF-C12SF-W1-120mm Hub-Mounted RGB Fan - 8 Individually-Addr

Price Comparison

When considering price, the NZXT F120 RGB Core stands out as the more budget-friendly option at £11.99, compared to the ARCTIC P12 PWM PST A-RGB, which is priced at £16.49. This represents a saving of £4.50, making the NZXT model an attractive choice for those looking to upgrade their cooling solution without breaking the bank. While both fans offer unique features and aesthetics, the lower price of the NZXT fan could appeal to gamers and PC builders who are on a tighter budget or simply looking for value.

Aesthetic Appeal

In terms of visual impact, both the ARCTIC P12 PWM PST A-RGB and the NZXT F120 RGB Core excel with their RGB lighting features. The ARCTIC fan features 12 A-RGB LEDs that are strategically placed along its hub and rotor, providing a rich illumination effect. On the other hand, the NZXT fan incorporates 8 individually-addressable RGB LEDs, which are diffused through its semi-translucent blades for a stunning light display. While both fans offer impressive lighting, the ARCTIC fan has a slight edge with more LEDs, potentially offering a more vibrant overall effect in a well-lit PC case.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling efficiency, the ARCTIC P12 PWM PST A-RGB is optimised for static pressure, boasting a maximum speed of 2000 RPM and a static pressure rating of 1.85 mmH₂O. This makes it particularly effective for use on heat sinks and radiators, ensuring efficient cooling even under high resistance. Conversely, the NZXT F120 RGB Core also features a design that optimises airflow and static pressure but lacks specific static pressure figures. However, it does include fluid dynamic bearings, which contribute to a quieter operation. For users prioritising maximum cooling performance, the ARCTIC fan may be the more suitable option.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are crucial for many PC builders, particularly for those who prefer a quieter environment during gaming or work. The ARCTIC P12 PWM PST A-RGB achieves a noise level of just 0.3 Sone, ensuring that it operates quietly even at high speeds. In comparison, while the NZXT F120 RGB Core does not provide an explicit noise level, it highlights its anti-vibration rubber corners and sturdy frame that promote silent and stable operation. Users seeking a whisper-quiet fan solution may find the ARCTIC fan to be a more appealing option based on its specific noise measurement.

Build Quality and Longevity

Build quality is another important factor when evaluating these fans. The ARCTIC P12 PWM PST A-RGB is equipped with a 4-pin connector, allowing for PWM control to maintain performance while keeping noise to a minimum. However, the NZXT F120 RGB Core features fluid dynamic bearings, which are known to enhance stability and extend the lifespan of the fan to approximately 60,000 hours. This aspect of the NZXT fan could be a deciding factor for users looking for durability and reliability in their cooling solutions, especially if longevity is a primary concern.

Ease of Installation

Both fans are designed with user convenience in mind, but they offer different approaches to installation. The ARCTIC P12 PWM PST A-RGB comes with integrated Y-splitter cables for both the fan and A-RGB, simplifying the process of retrofitting and controlling additional fans. This feature can be particularly beneficial for users looking to expand their cooling setup without hassle. In contrast, the NZXT F120 RGB Core's design also optimises for easy installation but does not specifically mention similar cable management features. For ease of installation, the ARCTIC fan might be the better choice due to its thoughtful design.

Compatibility

Compatibility with various PC builds is essential when selecting a cooling fan. The ARCTIC P12 PWM PST A-RGB is designed to be versatile, making it suitable for use on heat sinks, radiators, and as a standard case fan. Its optimised static pressure makes it particularly effective in high-resistance scenarios. Meanwhile, the NZXT F120 RGB Core is also designed for high airflow and static pressure, suitable for both intake and exhaust configurations. Both fans appear to offer good compatibility, but users with specific cooling needs may find the ARCTIC fan's optimised design more aligned with their requirements.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, both the ARCTIC P12 PWM PST A-RGB and the NZXT F120 RGB Core present compelling features for PC enthusiasts. If budget is your primary concern, the NZXT fan offers significant savings while still delivering impressive RGB aesthetics and decent performance. However, if you prioritise superior cooling efficiency, lower noise levels, and enhanced static pressure, the ARCTIC P12 PWM PST A-RGB may be the better investment. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific needs, whether that be aesthetics, price, or performance.