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LX vs QX Fans: What's the difference?

The CORSAIR iCUE LINK LX RGB fans are the newest series to be added to the CORSAIR fan line up. These fans are part of the new iCUE LINK family of products CORSAIR launched last year that use a unique and revolutionary interface to connect.

Today, we are going to be comparing the LX RGB and QX RGB fans directly to help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next set of fans.

Similarities

First, lets review iCUE LINK, what it is and what it can do for you. The iCUE link concept is simple, one cable connects a series of components 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 connect together using the same interface promoting a clean and simple build.

Lets go over the important details that these fans share in common:

iCUE LINK Ecosystem:
iCUE LINK is the next leap forward in PC building, spanning across fans, coolers, PSU cables, and more, letting you neatly chain all of these components together for clean cabling, less mess, and a faster build.

Zero RPM Mode:
Completely eliminates fan noise by stopping the fans at low computer loads.

Magnetic Dome Bearing:
CORSAIR’s Magnetic Dome bearing retains all the performance of magnetic levitation fan technology and further reduces friction at low fan speeds.

Time Warp Lighting Mode:
This eye-popping effect makes your fans appear to be frozen in place or even spin backwards, exclusive to iCUE LINK thanks to an individual MCU in each fan.

5-Year Warranty:
Both fans come with CORSAIR 5-Year Warranty that offers 24/7 tech support.

iCUE Software:
Allows creation of fan curves and customization of RGB lighting effects, ensuring synchronizations across all iCUE compatible devices.

LX120

QX120

Technical Specification

	QX120 RGB	LX120 RGB	QX140 RGB	LX140 RGB
PWM Range	0%, 20% - 100%	0%, 20% - 100%	0% 20% - 100%	0%, 20% - 100%
Airflow	16.44 - 63.1 CFM	9.75 – 69.9 CFM	12.1 – 82.5 CFM	10.74 – 84.7 CFM
Speed	0, 480 - 2400 RPM ±10%	0, 400 - 2400 RPM ±10%	0, 400 - 2000 RPM ±10%	0, 350 - 2000 RPM ±10%
Sound Level	10 – 37 dBA	10 – 36 dBA	10 – 37 dBA	10 – 36 dBA
Static Pressure	0.17 – 3.8 mm H2O	0.13 – 5.22 mm H2O	0.19 – 3.5 mm H2O	0.11 – 4.86 mm H2O
Number of RGB LEDs	34 individually addressable	18 individually addressable	34 individually addressable	18 individually addressable
Rated Current - Fan	1.02 A	0.40 A	1.02 A	0.45 A
Type of Bearing	Magnetic Dome	Magnetic Dome	Magnetic Dome	Magnetic Dome
Variant	Black, White	Black, White	Black, White	Black, White
Warranty	5 Years	5 Years	5 Years	5 Years

Both fans push a great volume of air and have a high static pressure, which is ideal for situations with resistance such as radiators. However, the LX fans offer a greater volume of airflow overall due to the LX fans having CORSAIR AirGuide Technology. Even though the LX fans provide a greater volume of airflow both fans still provide the same sound level, meaning that extra performance doesn’t affect the overall sound.

LIGHTING AND AESTHETICS

Looking at both fans, the QX fans offer more LEDs at 34 RGB LEDs compared to the LX fans 18 RGB LEDs. Additionally, the QX fans 34 RGB LEDs are spread across two distinct lighting zones on both sides of the fan, making them more visually appealing. On the side, QX fans have two strips of LEDs compared to the LX fans having one strip as pictured below.

LX120 Side View

QX120 Side View

When debating between the CORSAIR iCUE LINK QX and LX fans consider the two main roles of airflow/static pressure and lighting customization. When it comes to having greater airflow and static pressure within your PC, the LX series is the best option. For the role of lighting customization and visual appeal with significant airflow, the QX series is the perfect fit.

Both series offer quiet operation, robust build quality, and seamless integration within the iCUE LINK Ecosystem, ensuring a cohesive and efficient build. Your decision ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize enhanced cooling performance or polished lighting aesthetics. Once you've made your choice, visit our webstore to purchase your new fans