CORSAIR RS120-R ARGB 120mm PWM Reverse Flow Fan - +5V ARGB Connections vs Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS LCD Liquid CPU Cooler

Overview of the CORSAIR RS120-R ARGB Fan

The CORSAIR RS120-R ARGB Fan is a versatile option for enhancing both cooling and aesthetics in your PC build. Priced at £24.99, this 120mm fan features a unique reverse rotor design that ensures optimal RGB lighting visibility, even when mounted as intake. With its eight integrated LEDs, users can enjoy vibrant and customisable lighting, provided they have a compatible motherboard for ARGB control.

This fan is not just about looks; it delivers strong performance with a maximum speed of 2,100 RPM and airflow of up to 65.8 CFM. Additionally, its high static pressure of 2.81 mm H2O makes it effective for cooling radiators and overcoming obstructions. Available in both black and white, the RS120-R can easily match different PC aesthetics while providing precise PWM performance for quieter operation when necessary.

Overview of the Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS LCD Liquid CPU Cooler

The Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS LCD Liquid CPU Cooler is a more advanced cooling solution, priced at £99.98. This cooler promises efficient and low-noise CPU cooling, allowing your system to operate at its fullest potential. A standout feature of this cooler is its customisable LCD screen, which adds a stylish touch to any build.

The NAUTILUS 360 is designed for whisper-quiet operation, with a pump that circulates coolant at a high flow rate while maintaining noise levels of just 20 dBA. It features a convex cold plate with pre-applied thermal paste, ensuring maximum contact with the CPU for effective heat transfer. Coupled with high static pressure RS fans, this cooler provides both strong performance and low noise levels, making it an attractive option for gamers and PC enthusiasts alike.

Performance Comparison

When it comes to performance, the two products cater to different needs. The CORSAIR RS120-R Fan offers a maximum speed of 2,100 RPM with airflow reaching up to 65.8 CFM, making it a strong contender for airflow in various setups. Its high static pressure rating of 2.81 mm H2O means it can efficiently cool components even in tighter spaces.

In contrast, the Corsair NAUTILUS 360 excels in CPU cooling with its low-noise pump, which operates at just 20 dBA, ensuring that your system remains quiet while efficiently managing heat. The combination of its powerful fans and liquid cooling technology allows it to handle high-performance CPUs that generate significant heat, making it a better choice for intense gaming or heavy workloads.

Aesthetic Appeal

A significant advantage of the CORSAIR RS120-R ARGB Fan is its focus on aesthetics. With vibrant, customisable ARGB lighting and a design that ensures the lighting is visible from any orientation, it can enhance the visual appeal of any PC build. Available in both black and white, users have the flexibility to choose a fan that best matches their setup.

On the other hand, the Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS features a customisable LCD screen that not only provides cooling information but also allows for personalised graphics or system stats to be displayed. While its RGB capabilities may not match those of the RS120-R, the cooler's sleek design and the LCD feature add a modern touch that can elevate the look of any gaming rig.

Installation Process

The installation process can vary significantly between the two products. The CORSAIR RS120-R Fan is relatively straightforward to install, especially for users who have experience with traditional fans. The reverse rotor design does not complicate installation, but users must ensure they have the right motherboard compatibility for ARGB control.

Conversely, the Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS requires a more involved installation due to its liquid cooling design. While the pre-applied thermal paste simplifies setup, the need for mounting the radiator and managing tubing can be daunting for beginners. However, once installed, it offers significant cooling benefits that justify the effort.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a critical consideration for many PC builders, and both products perform well in this area, albeit in different contexts. The CORSAIR RS120-R Fan can run quietly at lower RPMs, making it adaptable for quieter builds, while still offering the capability to increase airflow when needed.

The Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS is designed with low-noise performance in mind, maintaining a whisper-quiet operation at just 20 dBA. This makes it particularly suitable for environments where noise is a concern, such as in home offices or gaming setups where silence enhances the experience.

Price and Value

Price plays a crucial role in the decision-making process. The CORSAIR RS120-R ARGB Fan is competitively priced at £24.99, making it an accessible choice for those looking to enhance cooling and aesthetics without breaking the bank. Its performance and visual features offer excellent value for budget-conscious builders.

In contrast, the Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS is priced at £99.98, reflecting its advanced technology and capabilities. While it represents a higher investment, the benefits of liquid cooling and the added features may justify the cost for users seeking top-tier performance for demanding tasks.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the CORSAIR RS120-R ARGB Fan and the Corsair NAUTILUS 360 RS LCD Liquid CPU Cooler ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable, visually appealing fan that provides solid airflow, the RS120-R is an excellent choice. However, if you require superior CPU cooling for high-performance applications and are willing to invest more, the NAUTILUS 360 RS is worth considering for its advanced liquid cooling technology and stylish LCD display.