A case fan ensures the PC components are kept cool without getting overheated and hampering the overall performance.
Ideal 140mm case fan pushes the hot air outside and cool air insider without generating much noise.
If you are a gamer or use PC a lot of time, then investing in a case fan is really important. If you are wondering how to choose the best 140mm case fan, then consider the below factors
- Fan Speed
It represents the speed of the fan rotation and measured in terms of RPM (revolutions per minute). The general rule to consider while analyzing this factor is – higher RPM means more speed and less time is taken to decrease the case’s temperature.
- Air Flow
It represents the efficiency of cooling down the case and determined in terms of CFM. Higher the CFM, better will be the air flow.
- Number of Fans
In most computer cases, you have to install multiple cooling fans for the best cooling performance. Thus, instead of buying multiple fans, you can simply buy a pack of fans that can contain 3 to 5 fans in the box where a higher fan count generally results in a high value for money.
For further detail information, we recommend checking out the “Buying Guide” mentioned in this article. Using the same data, we spend several hours in shortlisting the best 140mm case fans.
Best 140 mm Case Fans 2023
| 140 mm Case Fans | No. of Fans | Fan Type | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooler Master 140 mm Case Fan | 1 fan | Airflow | 2 years | Check On Amazon |
| ARCTIC 140 mm Case Fan | 1 fan | Static pressure | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| CORSAIR AF140 mm Case Fan | 2 fans | Airflow | 2 years | Check On Amazon |
| Phanteks 140 mm Case Fan | 3 fans | Airflow | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| Noctua 140 mm Case Fan | 1 fan | Airflow | 6 years | Check On Amazon |
| NZXT 140 mm Case Fan | 1 fan | Airflow | 2 years | Check On Amazon |
| Be Quiet 140 mm Case Fan | 1 fan | Airflow | 3 years | Check On Amazon |
| Thermaltake 140 mm Case Fan | 1 fan | Static pressure | 3 years | Check On Amazon |
| Kingwin 140 mm Case Fan | 1 fan | Airflow | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
Best 140 mm Case Fans Reviews
1. Cooler Master 140 mm Case Fan
Cooler Master is known for all sorts of feature-rich computer products and accessories that also offer pretty good performance when it comes to cooling your PC.
The Cooler Master SickleFlow 140 mm case fan is present in the 1st position in this list since this allows you to easily change the colors of this ARGB fan to any color of your choice. Other than being an ARGB fan, it is also quite easy to control with its PWM controller. With this, you can change the fan speed between 650 and 1400 RPM.
While this is primarily an airflow fan, its air balance design also offers decent air pressure making it an all-rounder fan. Being a Cooler Master offering, the given 2-year warranty is to be expected.
Best Features:
- Comes with 1 fan in the box
- Airflow 140 mm case fan
- Offers ARGB lighting options
- Uses PWM connector for control
- Fan speed of up to 1400 RPM
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
Pros:
- Adjustable colors with ARGB lighting
- Decent airflow with high fan speeds
- Uses PWM connector for ease of use
Cons:
- Slightly on the expensive side
2. ARCTIC 140 mm Case Fan
As you can tell by the name, Arctic is a brand of computer components that makes cooling products like CPU coolers and computer case fans that offer great performance.
Arctic’s P14 PWM 140 mm case fan is present in the 2nd position in this listicle as you get an excellent value for money with this case fan. Even though it is one of the cheapest options out there, you get excellent cooling from its silent motor.
When combined with its PWM connector, you get variable fan speeds of 200-1700 RPM. Since it is a budget case fan, you only get a single fan in the box which is to be expected. But even then, it still manages to include a decent 1-year warranty for reliability.
Best Features:
- Comes with 1 fan in the box
- Static pressure 140 mm case fan
- Uses PWM connector for control
- Fan speed of up to 1700 RPM
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
Pros:
- Excellent cooling performance
- High value for money fan
- Quite silent during operation
Cons:
- Not an airflow fan
3. CORSAIR 140 mm Case Fan
Corsair is primarily a brand of computer cases that also happens to be offering fans for its cases that can be great for cooling.
This Corsair AF140 LED 140 mm case fan is present in the 3rd position in this article because it can be a great option if you are looking for a pack of fans. Both of the fans included in the box offer blue LED lighting for aesthetics.
Coming to the cooling performance, you get a decent 1400 RPM speed from these PWM fans. Although, their noise can be a bit high compared to others. Just like other popular brands of computer components, this one also includes a 2-year warranty.
Best Features:
- Comes with 2 fans in the box
- Airflow 140 mm case fan
- Offers blue LED lighting
- Uses PWM connector for control
- Fan speed of up to 1400 RPM
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
Pros:
- Pack of multiple fans
- Decent cooling performance
- Comes with blue lights
Cons:
- Noise output can be a bit high
4. Phanteks 140 mm Case Fan
Phanteks is a leading brand in the PC hardware industry, known for delivering high-quality and innovative products for gaming enthusiasts.
I recently upgraded my gaming setup with the Phanteks SK PWM DRGB fan, and I’m thrilled with the results. This fan delivers exceptional performance, keeping my components cool during intense gaming sessions.
What impressed me the most is its, nine-blade design and precise speed control, it strikes the perfect balance between airflow and noise reduction. The fan’s rigid frame and rubber dampeners effectively minimize vibrations, providing me with a peaceful gaming experience.
Plus, The built-in digital RGB lighting adds a personal touch to my setup, making it stand out. Installing the fan was cool and it remains whisper-quiet at any speed. If you want top-notch performance and aesthetics, the Phanteks SK PWM DRGB fan is a must-have.
Best Features:
- Comes with 3 fans in the box
- Airflow 140 mm case fan
- Customizable built-in digital RGB lighting.
- Excellent airflow for effective cooling.
- Precise speed control with PWM.
- Reduced vibrations and noise.
Pros:
- Exceptional cooling performance.
- Quiet operation even at high speeds.
- Eye-catching RGB lighting options.
- User-friendly installation process.
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some alternatives
5. Noctua 140 mm Case Fan
When you are talking about case fans, Noctua can be considered as a premium brand that offers high-end case fans with industry-leading cooling performance.
Noctua’s NF-A14 PWM 140 mm case fan is the best option in this listicle if you want a high-performance option. Despite offering the best cooling performance, it is still the most silent fan present here. It is able to do so using a PWM connector for premium speed control.
You get an excellent fan speed of up to 1500 RPM with this airflow designed fan. While it does not have any RGB lighting, you do get replaceable colored colors for customizability. Being a premium brand of fans, the included 6-year warranty is to be expected.
Best Features:
- Comes with 1 fan in the box
- Airflow 140 mm case fan
- Offers replaceable colored corners
- Uses PWM connector for control
- Fan speed of up to 1500 RPM
- Comes with a 6-year warranty
Pros:
- Excellent cooling performance numbers
- Most silent case fan
- Warranty period for long term usage
Cons:
- Not a budget case fan
6. NZXT 140 mm Case Fan
NZXT is another brand of computer cases and CPU coolers that also offers fans for the same that offer decent performance.
This NZXT AER F 140 mm case fan can be another viable option if you are looking for a high-performance option. Other than using fluid bearings, this fan relies on a PWM connector.
Due to this connector, you are able to use this fan at up to 1800 RPM which results in excellent cooling performance. Unfortunately, this does result in a bit of increased fan noise as compared to others. With NZXT case fans, you get a 2-year warranty similar to various others.
Best Features:
- Comes with 1 fan in the box
- Airflow 140 mm case fan
- Uses PWM connector for control
- Fan speed of up to 1800 RPM
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
Pros:
- Fairly decent value for money
- Quite a high fan speed rating
- Uses PWM connector for adjustments
Cons:
- Slightly loud for some users
7. Be Quiet 140 mm Case Fan
Be Quiet is considered as one of the best alternatives to Noctua since you get very similar numbers when you are talking about noise to cooling performance ratio.
The Be Quiet BL040 Pure Wings 2 140 mm case fan is among some of the most silent fans out there. But being a PWM airflow fan, its cooling performance is still great. Although, its fan speed of up to 1000 RPM can be a bit low for use with radiators.
Similar to most other case fans, this also comes as a single fan in the box. A great thing about Be Quiet and its Pure Wings 2 case fan is that you get an included 3-year warranty.
Best Features:
- Comes with 1 fan in the box
- Airflow 140 mm case fan
- Uses PWM connector for control
- Fan speed of up to 1000 RPM
- Comes with a 3-year warranty
Pros:
- Very silent fan motor
- Great cooling performance
- Includes a warranty
Cons:
- Not ideal for radiators
8. Thermaltake 140 mm Case Fan
Other than its high-end RGB fans, you can also find budget-friendly light-up fans from Thermaltake which can be great for aesthetics.
Thermaltake’s Ring 14 140 mm case fan is for those who are looking for a budget light up fan. With this fan, you get a white LED ring for illumination. Although being a budget offering, it does not use a PWM connector.
Fortunately, you still get decent cooling performance from this static pressure fan. This is primarily due to the reason that you get a fan speed of up to 1500 RPM which is fairly high while being quite silent. Unlike other budget offerings, Thermaltake also includes a 3-year warranty with it.
Best Features:
- Comes with 1 fan in the box
- Static pressure 140 mm case fan
- Offers white LED lighting
- Uses 3 pin and Molex connector for control
- Fan speed of up to 1500 RPM
- Comes with a 3-year warranty
Pros:
- Includes LED lighting
- Budget case fan with static pressure design
- Great cooling performance for the price
Cons:
- Uses a Molex connector
9. Kingwin 140 mm Case Fan
Kingwin is one of the smallest brands of computer cooling products like CPU coolers as well as case fans like the one stated here in this listicle.
This Kingwin CF-014LB 140 mm case fan is the cheapest option stated here making it a viable option for all budget buyers. Being a budget fan, its Molex connector is to be expected with this fan. Fortunately, this airflow fan still stays fairly silent during operation.
Since you also get an RPM rating of 950 RPM, you can expect decent cooling performance with it especially at the given price tag. Kingwin also includes a 1-year warranty with this budget offering making it fairly reliable and durable.
Best Features:
- Comes with 1 fan in the box
- Airflow 140 mm case fan
- Uses 3 pin and Molex connector for control
- Fan speed of up to 950 RPM
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
Pros:
- Affordable case cooling fan
- Decent cooling performance
- Includes standard warranty
Cons:
- Relies on Molex connector
Things to Consider While Purchasing the Best 140mm Case Fans:
140mm case fans are mostly considered to be the best option when it comes to cooling performance for either a computer cabinet or CPU. With so many options and less knowledge, it becomes confusing to choose the best option. If you are wondering how to purchase the best 140mm case fan, then below is a detail guide for your reference.
1. Fan Speed (RPM)
It represents the speed of the fan rotation and measured in terms of RPM (revolutions per minute). The general rule to consider while analyzing this factor is – higher RPM means more speed and less time is taken to decrease the case’s temperature.
140mm case fans are available in different speed ratings that include 1200 RPM, 1500 RPM, 1800 RPM and many others. Though higher RPM ensures better cooling performance, it can also lead to high noise levels which is another factor to consider. If you want a silent computer, then you may have to consider the noise levels while analyzing the preferred RPM.
2. Air Flow
Expelling warm air outside and inhaling the cool air inside – is the main purpose of any 140mm case fan. And the air flow factor represents the same. It is usually measured in terms of CFM (cubic feet per minute). Apart from airflow, it also provides insights on the product’s overall performance and efficiency.
CFM further depends on the sub factors that include position of the intake part, orientation, exhaust part of the case fan and shape.
Higher the CFM, better will be the air flow. In your computer case, you may need maximum airflow circulation so that the computer components will operate better under low temperatures.
Remember that, even if the CFM is low, RPM can be high. Some of the budget-friendly 140mm case fans have lower RPM and higher CFM.
3. Power Connection Types
Before choosing 140mm case fan, you should understand how it connects to the system. In most of the cases, they use 4-pin connection type which can be easily connected to a 4-pin connector on the motherboard. Even if the case fan has a 3-pin connection type, you can still use a 4-pin connector on the motherboard. If you use a 3-pin connection type, you can connect to 4-pin connector however you have to use only three pins.
You can also find other case fans in the market that have Molex connection type. Instead of connecting to a motherboard, the molex can be directly connected to the power source. Some of the case fans also come with 2-pin, 3-pin and molex type connections.
4. Bearing Type
140mm case fans are available in different types of bearing that include sleeve, ball and hydrodynamic. Among these options, hydrodynamic bearing is considered the best and durable option as it comes with a self-lubricating feature. sleeve bearings are considered least expensive. When it comes ball bearing last stronger compared to sleeve bearing but generate a lot of noise.
5. Noise Levels
Before purchasing a 140mm case fan, you should also check out the noise levels produced by it. The noise levels are mostly represented in terms of decibels (dB). The dB count mentioned in the product specifications represent how loud the fan will be when it is running at the maximum RPM level.
Most of the 140mm case fans available in the market range between 10 to 35 dB. Louder case fans can disturb the user and also affect the experience. We recommend considering a model that provided efficient performance without generating noise.
6. Size
140mm case fans are available in different sizes that include 80mm, 120mm, 140mm and 200mm. Among them 120mm is considered the most standard size option. However, larger computer case fans are considered more efficient in terms of air flow and less noise levels. So, 140mm case fans have become quite popular as they are a combination of budget price, size and performance.
7. Number of Fans
As a computer utilizes multiple fans, it can better to purchase them as a pack to reduce the upfront costs. Most of the best 140mm case fans come in a pack of 5. Choosing this type of option can be of great value. Most of them are easy to install in any computer case.
8. Fan Lighting
Similar to most of the computer peripherals, case fans come with different lighting options. If you like to enhance your PC’s aesthetics, then you have to check the lighting choices available along with the case fan. Some of them come with RGB lighting while others come with single color LED. We recommend to check out a case fan that comes with in-built lighting so that it can look much better.
9. Fan Speed Control
The ability to tweak the fan for optimized experience is always handy. So, we recommend checking out a case fan that ensures tweaking options. You can also control the fan speed for optimizing it performance. And you can also dictate the noise level for ultimate experience.
10. Power Consumption
It represents the efficient operation of a 140mm case fans. When you compare the speed and power consumption of different fans, it is helps you find out which one offers more speed in less power consumption. Low-speed fans usually consume less power compare to higher speed fans.
However, it is not always not true that low speed fans provide less power consumption. So, it is always better to check the fan specifications and power consumption before making the choice. You should also check out the size and see if the system can handle this power.
11. Quality
All the 140mm case fans generate at least some noise. And you cannot purchase a low noise fan and expect better performance. So, if better efficiency and performance is major factor along with less noise level, then we recommend choosing advanced quality produce with enhanced features.
For example, a high-end product comes with noise reduction features. Including that, you should also check out the fan blade quality before making a purchase. Higher the blade quality, lesser will be the noise. But you may have to compromise in some part as you cannot get high RPM and low-quality fan blades.
12. Ventilation
Every system needs ventilation when installed in a room. So, you have to check whether the case comes with extra vents on the top. They let the air flow in and out of the system without compromising the efficiency.
There are several cases which offer extra vents as they need additional hardware for covering all the components. We recommend to check for a case which allows proper air flow.
13. Connector Type
The next factor to consider while purchasing a case fan is connector type. Most of the modern-day CPUs and GPUs are compatible with majority of case fans. But some case may be incompatible with the system.
For that, you have to check out whether any other connector type is suitable with your system. If the case fan is compatible with CPU, then it can be a better option. But in some of the cases, you may not use any case fans with certain connectors.
14. Fan Aesthetics
RGB lighting can be an important aspect for gamers. This is why manufacturers have been adding the case with lighting features and aesthetics. They offer eye-catching design and lighting mechanisms for attracting the customers. But you should purchase a fan that is a combination of decent performance and aesthetics.
15. Performance
For any case fan, performance is the primary factor you are investing in it. The performance of a 140mm case fan is determined using in and out airflow which is represented in terms of CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating. Higher the CFM rating and better will be the airflow. And ultimately, you will get improved performance and decreased temperatures.
16. Price
There are several 140mm case fans in the market that range from budget-friendly to expensive. You have to choose a model that comes within your budget without compromising the necessary features.
17. Warranty
When you are spending several bucks on a case fan, it is important to check out the warranty duration. And in addition to that, it helps to get better services from the manufacturer without paying any money. It is suitable to select a case fan with a longer warranty duration. One easy way to ensure this is to simply check their included warranty as computer fans offer 2 year long, 3 year long, and even 6 year warranty periods where higher is always better.
How to Clean 140mm Case Fans?
For increasing the overall performance of the case fan, you have to clean it and the components regularly. Keeping the components of the case fans will regulate the airflow in and out of the case.
Below are some of the steps to consider for cleaning a 140mm case fan…
- The first thing you to do is turn off the component and make sure the power is disconnected so that you can remove the case fan safely.
- Now carefully unscrew the case fan using a screwdriver. Make sure to remove the power cord from the motherboard. Try to keep your hands dry to prevent any damage or short circuiting.
- After removing the case fan, place it over a table.
- Remove the dust and other impurities using a blower or dry cloth.
- Now carefully remove the sticker present at the middle of case fan until you see the rotating spindle.
- Once the sticker is removed, you can apply grease oil or lubricant oil to the spindle.
- Make sure the lubricant reaches the spindle. After that, you can seal it properly.
- And finally, screw the case fan back into the case and its done.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: When it comes to analyzing RPM of a case fan, you have to consider this thumb rule – higher the RPM, louder will be the model. A 1000RPM is actually considered pretty good as most of the case fans come between 1400 and 1600RPM. Lesser noise means non-intensive or leisure PCs
Ans: Usually, higher the case fan number, better the airflow. But we recommending choosing a case that supports at least 3 fans for optimum performance. Having more case fans will ensure proper airflow and better overall performance. If you use a computer for heavy workouts or gaming, then you may need more case fan and the other way around.
Ans: For connecting case fans, you may need a PSU with Molex connectors. You can use Molex three-pin fan adapters or plug in the fan directly like a molex connector. But the fan will run at complete speed as there would be no voltage tweaking option.
Ans: Generally, only a single case fan will be mounted at the rear end of the case. But if you are investing in a high-quality case, then it offers two or three case fins. However, it may be a bit more expensive. When you look at the bright side, it will significantly improve the performance and keep the temperature to a minimum.
Ans: Case fans are plugged into four-pin system fan heads which are located on the motherboard. They are also plugged into three-pin system fan heads based on the personal preference. But if you need more than one case fan, then you can use one of the two plugging options.
Ans: Usually, case fans last for at least 3 years. But it also depends on fan usage. If you use it daily, then the lifespan of case fan decreases drastically. However, if you are an occasional user, the case fan can be operated for a long period of time. Most of the brands mention average lifespan on their fan specifications in the product description.
Ans: For that you may have to plug the power cord of the case fan into three-pin or four-pin system fan header. After that, you can control the case fan speed in the BIOS menu. If the case fans are connected through Molex connected to the PSU, then you will not be able to control the speed.
Ans: The fan size can be determined by the fan size fitting positing in the case and measuring along the fan four sides. However, make sure the distance between the fan screw holes and the actual body. the most popular case fans have 120mm size.
Ans: The blow will be forward when the fan turns in same direction as the angled blade. However, when the angled down blade and fan turn in opposite direction, the reverse is the true answer.
Ans: You can achieve this by simple disabling the LED on the case fan and cutting the LED wire. Some of them come with jumper that can be removed while other come with power leads that can be cut. Some of the case fans come with jumpers that don’t cut the power lead to LED.
Ans: The difference between the 120mm and 140mm fans is not just cooling. The main reason for 140mm being better is the noise levels. The 140mm fan is usually larger so it can provide decent airflow at lower RPM. Smaller fans are capable of operating at higher RPM because of the small size and increased sound output.
Ans: Bigger case fans are usually much better compared to smaller ones, especially when it comes to sound output. Larger fans are capable of operating at lower RPM even with same airflow as high RPM and small sized fan. As they are operating at lower RPM, larger fans come with lower noise levels and are usually a popular choice.
Ans: In a PC case, you can place case fans anywhere you want. But it needs the case to support the location. Actually, case fans are placed at the back of chassis for dissipating the warm air. Apart from that, you can fit the case fans on the front sides or top of the chassis.
Ans: If the case fan is plugged into a three-pin or four pin system fan headers, then you can overlock the fan. Now, you have to head the BIOS menu and enter the case fan settings. Once the case fan information is found, the bIOS will display the RPM information. Higher RPM levels ensure faster revolution of the case fan.
Conclusion
You can find various size options out there while buying fans for your computer case or CPU coolers including both air coolers and water cooling radiators. While smaller fan options like 92 mm or 120 mm may not be the most effective, a 200 mm fan cannot be installed in all computer cases. Because of this, the best 140 mm case fans discussed earlier make for a great pick for high cooling performance.
As per all these factors, here are some of our favorite recommendations for the best 140 mm case fans:
- With the Cooler Master 140mm Case fan, you can easily customize them to any color or design since these are ARGB fans. Thanks to its PWM connector, you can change the fan speed between 650 RPM to 1400 RPM as per your choice. This airflow fan also includes a decent 2-year warranty being an offering from a reputable brand like Cooler Master.
- The Noctua 140 mm case fan is the best performing option stated above which is to be expected at its premium price tag. Even though this fan has a speed of up to 1500 RPM via its PWM connector, it is still the most silent case stated here. While you do not get lighting with this fan, it does offer swappable colored corner panels for customization.
- Despite being one of the cheapest 140 mm case fans out there, the Arctic 140mm case Fan offers quite a similar performance to the previous Noctua one in terms of its noise output. Since it also goes up to 1700 RPM speeds, you can expect excellent cooling from this PWM pressure optimized fan.
