ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST - PC Fan vs CORSAIR RS120-R ARGB 120mm PWM Reverse Flow Fan - +5V ARGB Connections

Overview of the ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST and CORSAIR RS120-R ARGB

The ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST is a budget-friendly option at £5.87, while the CORSAIR RS120-R ARGB is a premium choice priced at £24.99. Both fans cater to cooling needs but offer different features that appeal to varying user preferences.

The ARCTIC P12 Slim is designed for high static pressure, making it suitable for use on heat sinks and radiators. In contrast, the CORSAIR RS120-R emphasises aesthetic appeal with its vibrant ARGB lighting and reverse rotor design, ensuring that the RGB lighting is fully visible.

Cooling Performance

In terms of cooling performance, the ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST excels with a maximum fan speed of 2,100 RPM, providing efficient airflow of 34.51 CFM. This makes it highly effective for cooling applications that require strong airflow while maintaining a low noise level of only 0.3 Sone.

On the other hand, the CORSAIR RS120-R also reaches speeds up to 2,100 RPM and offers an impressive maximum airflow of 65.8 CFM. This higher airflow makes it particularly effective for larger cases or setups requiring substantial airflow. The static pressure rating of the RS120-R is 2.81 mmH₂O, which is greater than that of the P12 Slim, indicating it can push through obstructions more effectively.

Noise Levels

When considering noise levels, the ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST is notably quieter, operating at just 0.3 Sone. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritise a silent operation in their PC builds.

Conversely, while the CORSAIR RS120-R does not specify its noise output, the ability to adjust fan speeds means it can be set to run quietly at lower RPMs. However, its focus on performance and airflow may lead to a noisier operation when running at maximum speeds, especially when pushing 65.8 CFM.

Aesthetic Appeal

If aesthetics are a priority, the CORSAIR RS120-R ARGB stands out significantly due to its vibrant and customisable ARGB lighting. With eight LEDs per fan, it allows for a plethora of lighting effects, which can be controlled via a compatible motherboard. This feature is perfect for users looking to enhance their build's visual appeal.

The ARCTIC P12 Slim, while effective in performance, does not offer any RGB lighting options, making it less appealing for those who wish to create a visually striking setup. Users focused on aesthetics will likely prefer the CORSAIR model for its enhanced lighting capabilities.

Installation and Compatibility

The ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST boasts a low installation height of only 15 mm, making it highly suitable for small form factor cases or situations where a thicker fan might not fit. This flexibility can be a significant advantage for compact builds or specific cooling situations.

In contrast, the CORSAIR RS120-R, being a standard 120 mm fan, does not have the same low-profile advantage. However, it is designed to fit into a wide range of configurations, and its reverse rotor design may require consideration regarding airflow direction and aesthetic placement.

PWM Control Features

Both the ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST and CORSAIR RS120-R feature PWM control, allowing users to adjust fan speeds dynamically based on cooling needs. The ARCTIC fan's PWM PST technology ensures that noise levels remain minimal while maximising cooling performance.

The CORSAIR RS120-R also benefits from precise PWM performance, enabling users to set fan speeds according to their specific requirements. This feature provides the versatility needed for different tasks, whether quiet operation or high-performance cooling is desired.

Price Comparison

The ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST is priced at £5.87, making it an extremely affordable choice for budget-conscious consumers. In contrast, the CORSAIR RS120-R ARGB is significantly more expensive at £24.99. This price difference reflects the additional features and aesthetic appeal that the CORSAIR fan offers, such as ARGB lighting and enhanced airflow.

When considering value, the ARCTIC P12 Slim offers solid performance for its price, but those looking for additional features and a more visually appealing setup may find the higher cost of the CORSAIR fan justifiable.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the ARCTIC P12 Slim PWM PST and the CORSAIR RS120-R ARGB depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you are looking for a cost-effective, low-profile fan that operates quietly while delivering solid performance, the ARCTIC P12 Slim is an excellent option at £5.87.

Conversely, if aesthetics and a higher airflow performance are critical to your build, the CORSAIR RS120-R ARGB, priced at £24.99, would be the better choice. It offers vibrant lighting and superior airflow capabilities, making it suitable for more demanding cooling scenarios.