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CORSAIR iCUE LINK RX vs QX fans: What's the difference?
The CORSAIR iCUE LINK RX fans are the latest in the CORSAIR fan line up. These fans are part of the new iCUE LINK family of products that CORSAIR launched last year that use a unique and revolutionary interphase to connect. Currently, there are two CORSAIR fan models in the iCUE link family, the RX and the QX.
So, because there are two models now to compare, we have decided to highlight their differences so you can make an informed decision when purchasing your next set of fans.
First of all, lets review iCUE LINK, what it is and what it can do for you.
The iCUE LINK concept is simple, in fact if we were to choose one word to describe iCUE link, we would say it would have to be simplicity. Sure, the products are genius and well built but it’s the ease of use and installation that makes them truly amazing. Basically, one cable connects a series of components that connect to one hub. No separate cables to mess with for power and RGB or multiple fan controllers, etc. Instead, a group of components in your PC connected together using the same interphase promoting a clean and simple build.
Let’s take a look at the visual difference between both fans.
So as you can see, each fan is slightly different and we will go briefly into those difference up ahead. It's also a good idea to give you a few important things they share in common, so here they are:
- iCUE LINK Ecosystem: Both fans use the same technology to connect.
- Magnetic Dome bearing: These bearings are made for low noise performance and silent operation.
- Zero RPM Mode: A technology used for efficiency that allows the fan to completely stop running when at lower loads.
- Durable Glass Fiber-Reinforced Frame: Both the frames of the QX and RX are reinforced and can widthstand higher temps.
- 5-Year Warranty: Both fans come with a CORSAIR 5-Year Warranty that offers 24/7 Tech Support.
- iCUE Software: Allows creation of fan curves and customization of RGB lighting effects, ensuring synchronization across all iCUE-compatible devices.
Technical Specifications
| MODEL NAME | QX120 RGB | RX120 RGB | RX120 | QX140 RGB | RX140 RGB | RX140 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PWM Range | 0%, 20% - 100% | 0%, 20% - 100% | 0%, 20% - 100% | 0%, 20% - 100% | 0%, 20% - 100% | 0%, 20% - 100% |
| Airflow | 16.44 – 63.1 CFM | 10.5 – 74.2 CFM | 10.5 – 74.2 CFM | 12.1 – 82.5 CFM | 18.1 – 95.7 CFM | 18.1 – 95.7 CFM |
| Speed | 0, 480 - 2400 RPM ±10% | 0, 400 - 2100 RPM ±10% | 0, 400 - 2100 RPM ±10% | 0, 400 - 2000 RPM ±10% | 0, 300 - 1700 RPM ±10% | 0, 300 - 1700 RPM ±10% |
| Sound Level | 10 - 37 dBA | 10 - 36 dBA | 10 - 36 dBA | 10 - 37 dBA | 10 - 36 dBA | 10 - 36 dBA |
| Static Pressure | 0.17 - 3.8 mm H2O | 0.12 - 4.38 mm-H2O | 0.12 - 4.38 mm-H2O | 0.19 - 3.5 mm-H2O | 0.15 - 3.79 mm-H2O | 0.15 - 3.79 mm-H2O |
| Number of RGB LEDs | 34 Individually Addressable | 8 Individually Addressable | - | 34 Individually Addressable | 8 Individually Addressable | - |
| Unique Lighting Features | Time Warp Effect | Side View | - | Time Warp Effect | Side View | - |
| Type of Bearing | Magnetic Dome | Magnetic Dome | Magnetic Dome | Magnetic Dome | Magnetic Dome | Magnetic Dome |
| Variant | Black, White | Black, White | Black | Black, White | Black, White | Black |
| Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years | 5 Years | 5 Years | 5 Years | 5 Years |
Airflow
The QX fans push a good volume of air and have high static pressure, ideal for situations with resistance such as radiators. RX fans offer lower maximum RPM but compensate with greater airflow and have improved blade design which allows the RX fans to move more air and static pressure than the QX fans. This is due to the RX fans having CORSAIR AirGuide Technology that helps with concentrated airflow.
Lighting and Aesthetics
This is where the QX fans truly out perform. QX fans offer more LEDs and exclusive lighting modes like the strobing Time Warp, making them a visually striking choice. QX fans are equiped with 34 RGB LEDs while RX RGB fans have 8 RGB LEDs. RX fans include a detachable side plate for additional customization and a frame window to view the lighting from different angles. QX fans have side LEDs as pictured below.
QX
RX
Conclusion
When choosing between the CORSAIR iCUE LINK QX and RX fans, consider the role airflow and static pressure play in your setup. If you need greater airflow and static pressure for resistance-heavy environments, the RX series is a perfect fit. For those prioritizing lighting customization and effective cooling through concentrated airflow, the QX series will deliver the requisite performance and aesthetics.
Both series provide quiet operation, strong build quality, and the convenience of the iCUE LINK Ecosystem for a cohesive and streamlined build. Your decision may ultimately hinge on specific cooling requirements and personal aesthetic preferences and when you're ready to make your purchase, head over to our webstore to make your selection.
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