Do all PC fans fit?

Currently, a lot of CPU coolers are compatible with most of the popular socket types although there are some only support one socket type. Beside the socket type, the layout of the motherboard can also determine which cooler's will or won't fit.

Are all PC fans the same size?

Size. Most popular size is usually 120mm in modern PC cases, however, you will find other sizes such as 80mm, 92mm, 140mm, 200mm and various other configurations.

Can any fan fit any PC?

First, make sure your case actually has empty fan slots to fill, and second, only buy fans that will fit them. 120mm is the most common fan size and just about any case will fit them, but you can also get 140mm fans easily as well.

Do all fans fit in all PC cases?

The specifications of your PC's case will show you which fan sizes it can mount. For example, in some cases you'll have to choose between installing three 120 mm fans or two 140 mm fans. Smaller cases may only allow for 80 mm fans to be installed, so choices can be a bit limited for these setups.

How do I know what fans fit my PC?

If you simply need to determine how large a case fan is, measure the case fan edge to edge along either side. The measurement in millimeters is the size of the fan. This is as straightforward as it comes.

PC Fans Types Explained... What is right for your setup?

Are all PC fan connectors the same?

Most cooling fans will connect to a PC with a standard connector of some sort. Modern systems will typically use 3-pin or 4-pin dedicated fan headers, though standard MOLEX 4-pin peripheral connectors are also used. From left to right: A 3-pin connector, a 4-pin connector and a MOLEX connector.

How do I know my fan size?

Measure the length of one blade from tip to base. Be sure to measure from just above the blade root, as shown, OR from where the blade meets the hub in an assembled fan. Multiply the blade length by two and add that measurement to the hub diameter from step 3 to determine your total fan diameter.

How do I know if my CPU fan will fit in case?

Beside the socket type, the layout of the motherboard can also determine which cooler's will or won't fit. Take this board for example: …if you have a motherboard like this, which is relatively un-cluttered around the CPU area, you can probably fit just about any compatible CPU cooler on there without a problem.

Are PC fans universal?

No, they must be compatible with the socket you want to use them with. Some are intel only, some are AMD only, then AM3 may not be usable on AM4 etc. Generally if you buy a good aftermarket cooler, you get all sorts of mounting hardware so that you can mount it on different sockets but it is not granted.

Are all 120mm fans the same width?

A 120mm fan is going to be approximately 120x120mm, typically with a 25mm thickness but there are slim versions which are only 15mm thick. I measured my 120mm fan, it is 4-5/8" on each side of the square, not diagonally, and 1" thick. That is 4.625", or about 118.5mm, per side.

Can a PC run without a fan?

A PC's power supply has an integrated fan, and if you don't have a case fan, the power supply fan is the only thing pushing hot air out of your system. If it's not working properly, your system will heat up quickly. If your power supply fan isn't working, replace it as soon as possible.

Can I plug a 3 pin fan into a 4 pin?

Please Note: You can connect a 3 Pin Fan to a 3 Pin or 4 Pin header on the motherboard. The fan will function normally no matter type of fan header is used.

What are the 2 types of PC fan?

There are actually two different kinds of PC case fans: static pressure fans, and high airflow fans.

How do I know which case fan to buy?

Are bigger PC fans louder?

Use Larger and Quieter Fans

Larger fans are capable of moving more air at lower RPMs, allowing them to run much quieter than smaller fans that spin faster.

Why is PC fan so loud?

If you notice the computer fan running constantly and making an abnormal or loud noise, this might indicate that the computer is not running as efficiently as possible, and/or clogged air vents. It is important to keep dust from accumulating in your computer and ensure adequate ventilation to help reduce heat.

Can I replace my CPU fan with any fan?

Yes it's possible to replace a CPU fan. Just make sure that the cooler is compatible with your PC's motherboard. If you looking for an aftermarket cooler, make sure you get it from quality brands like Coolermaster or else the cheaper ones may not live up to your expectations .

How many fans should a PC have?

In a standard desktop PC, you want at least one intake and one exhaust fan. Some cheaper cases only include a single intake fan on the front of the PC, or a single exhaust fan at the rear. Spend a couple bucks for another fan so you have both.

Can I use case fans on CPU fan?

Yes, you can use a Case fan as a CPU fan. However, a case fan, in many scenarios, is not a good option to use as a CPU fan. This is because a fan built for CPU cooling usually operates at a much higher RPM than a case fan.

What is standard fan size?

Most ceiling fans are between 42 and 48 inches in size, and they work well for spaces from 75 to 175 square feet. This includes large bathrooms, large bedrooms, medium-sized living rooms, and kitchens.

How do I choose a fan?

Fan Selection Procedure

Determine the amount of heat generated internally by the machinery. Calculate the air flow required once you have determined the heat generation, the number of degrees the temperature must be lowered and what the ambient temperature should be. Select a fan using the required air flow.

Are all PC fans 4 pin?

CPU fans are always placed on a copper or aluminum heatsink use either a 3 pin fan or a 4 pin fan connector. The conventional 3 pin connectors are designed for small fans with low power consumption. While 4 pin fan connectors are designed for modern CPUs with higher power consumption.

Does it matter which fan I plug into motherboard?

In short, the place you connect any standard consumer fan to is one of the many 3 or 4-pin fan header(s) on your motherboard. Your motherboard will most likely have at the very least two or three headers like this. Any one of those can and will power a fan just fine.