CORSAIR fan lineup explained

Keeping your system cool is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your PC. However, nowadays, it’s not just about air. With the introduction of RGB lighting, PC enthusiasts have turned their focus towards aesthetics. But, apart from the bling and pretty colors that CORSAIR fans offer, our fans are also built for high performance and durability.

CORSAIR fans are highly regarded for their quality, performance, and compatibility with the Corsair ecosystem, which includes advanced lighting and fan control through the iCUE software. Whether you're seeking optimal cooling performance, quiet operation, or breathtaking RGB effects, CORSAIR has a wide selection of fans to cater to your specific needs.

We offer an array of PC fan solutions to cater to every build. Our comprehensive Corsair fan chart simplifies the process of distinguishing between each model and helps you choose the perfect fit for your needs.

To better understand each CORSAIR fan lineup, let's take a quick overview of what each one offers.

The CORSAIR LX RGB fans are closely related to the QX fans, albeit it available at a lower price point. Additionally, they operate slightly more quietly and use our AirGuide design which concentrates the exhausted air into more of a cylinder that's more effective at making it through restrictive parts of a PC like the dense fins of radiators and the heatsinks of air coolers.

As for visual differences vs the QX fans, you'll notice that There is a single light slot on each edge instead of the dual slots found on the QX series. Additionally, you'll notice that the exhaust side has 9 struts connecting the center to the outer edge. These are what we were referring to earlier when we mentioned AirGuide. Not only do these help create better airflow, but they are also visually distinct, so worth keeping in mind, especially if your build has many fans with the exhaust-side visible.

As of the 19th of November 2024, you can also get the LX-R reverse fans. These are reversed versions of the LX fans. This means that you can have intake fans without having to the look at the frame.

On these fans, the blades are reversed, so that the fan is sucking air through the back frame, and exhausting out of the front. If you've ever maxxed out the fans on a case like the CORSAIR 5000D, you might have been dismayed that the fans to the right of the motherboard tray didn't look so great if you were using them for intake, as you had to look at the back. With the LX-R RGB fans, this is no longer an issue. As usual they are available in 140mm and 120mm sizes, with both sizes coming in a black or white variant.

The primary advantage of the RS MAX fans is their increased thickness. It's only 5mm more than the standard 25mm thickness, but this really makes a big difference. In short, a 30mm think fan can push more air at a given RPM than a thinner variant. That being said, given how long the 25mm standard has been well, standard, it comes as no surprise than many cases will have only limited compatibility with 30mm fans. So, remember to check before you buy.

Available in 120mm and 140mm sizes, the RS MAX fans feature no RGB and old-fashioned PWM control. At time of writing, these are our purist-level, most high performance fans. Perfect for those who favor sheer cooling potential over anything else.

Somewhat like the LX fans, the RXs are another addition to the iCUE LINK ecosystem. Lower cost as compared to the QX fans, and with a way different visual design, meaning that those wanting to get into the iCUE LINK system now have different ways of doing so. The RX fans are available in RGB and non-RGB, white, black and 120mm or 140mm sizes, and feature an optional branded side panel for a couple more options.

The RX Series are also available in a MAX variant. So you get the same engineering and design features, but with the performance benefit of increased 30mm thickness. As with any fan thicker than the standard 25mm, remember to very carefully check compatibility. Not many cases are designed with 30mm fans in mind, so you can easily run into clearance issues. This is especially true if you're combining them with water cooling radiators.

These also come in RGB and non-RGB versions, with 140mm and 120mm size options. So, if you've got the space, and verified the clearance, you could see a significant performance bump by replacing any or all the fans in your system with these.

If you're already in the iCUE LINK ecosystem, then installing these will be exceptionally easy.

The QX RGB fans by CORSAIR are the first fan lineup that has been integrated into the iCUE LINK ecosystem. iCUE LINK is a smart component ecosystem developed by CORSAIR, which simplifies the process of building computers, making the DIY hobby more accessible and inviting for all. To learn more about iCUE LINK, you can check out the "What is iCUE LINK?" article we have here on Explorer.

You can choose from two colorways, black or white.

Available in single 120mm or 140mm, a triple-pack set for 120mm, and a dual-pack set for 140mm.

The QX RGB fans are not only compatible with iCUE LINK, but they also provide exceptional cooling performance, speed control, and lighting customization. These fans are the only ones from CORSAIR that feature the popular Time Warp effect. To truly appreciate this unique lighting effect, you must see it in person. The Time Warp effect can make the QX RGB fans appear to be still, rotate slowly, or rotate in reverse, even though the fan is actually running normally.

If you want RGB lighting in your PC setup, the iCUE LINK QX RGB fans are a great choice to enhance your build's overall look.

The RS ARGB fans utilise our latest design technology, like AirGuide, magnetic dome bearings, and Zero RPM modes, but come at a far lower cost.

In addition to the design features, these fans can be daisy chained together, through just a single 4-pin PWM and a +5V ARGB header from your motherboard. This means that the speeds and RGB lighting can be controlled directly from your motherboard, so you don't need iCUE, just the ARGB software from your motherboard's brand. ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light Sync, ASRock RGB, and Gigabyte RGB Fusion are all compatible here.

The CORSAIR AR120 RGB fan is an excellent choice for those who want to control their lighting with ease. Its lighting can be controlled via a 5V ARGB header on a motherboard, which makes it affordable for those on a budget or who are looking for a great-value RGB fan. However, if you're looking for advanced lighting options, it's recommended that you use an iCUE lighting controller. In addition to multiple LED RGB control options, this fan offers the quality and features you'd expect from a great CORSAIR product.

AR RGB fans are 120mm spec and available in black and white colorways in single and triple-pack kits.

Each AR RGB fan is equipped with eight individually addressable RGB LEDs that provide stunning lighting effects without the need for an additional RGB controller. The fan comes with a 3-pin ARGB motherboard adapter, making it easy to install and use. If you're looking for high-performance RGB fans that offer brilliant lighting effects straight out of the box, these are a great option.

If you're on the hunt for a fan that can push air through tight spaces, look no further than the iCUE SP RGB ELITE fans. These fans will not only meet your needs but also come with customizable RGB lighting options that are sure to impress. These fans offer excellent performance and sleek design at an affordable price point.

Available in single 120mm or 140mm, a triple-pack set for 120mm, and a dual-pack set for 140mm, both in black and white.

The SP RGB ELITE fans are specifically designed for applications that require improved airflow in tight spaces or with radiators or heat sinks. These high-performance fans are PWM-controlled with optimized static pressure and airflow to provide efficient cooling. It also features anti-vortex vanes that direct air into a tight spiral for concentrated, forceful airflow, making them ideal for cooling your PC's hottest components.

If you are not a big fan of RGB and want to get the performance out of the SP RGB RGB ELITE fans, we've got you covered with SP120 ELITE. Available in a 120mm single pack in black.

If you're a PC builder and want fans that provide optimal airflow to all components in your build, you should check out the iCUE AF RGB ELITE fan series. These fans are designed for use as case fans because of their optimized airflow. They are perfect for bringing cool air into your system and exhausting warm air out, helping to keep your internal PC temperature low. I highly recommend these fans to anyone looking for effective cooling for their PC.

Available in single 120mm or 140mm, a triple-pack set for 120mm, and a dual-pack set for 140mm.

The AF RGB ELITE fans are an ideal combination of powerful cooling and vibrant RGB lighting, designed to integrate seamlessly with CORSAIR's iCUE software ecosystem. These fans are equipped with eight individually addressable RGB LEDs, providing brilliant RGB lighting, efficient cooling, and quiet operation. The AF RGB ELITE fans come with CORSAIR AirGuide technology that ensures focused airflow, resulting in more targeted cooling for critical components while keeping the noise levels to a minimum.

For those who want to maintain a lower profile and don't necessarily care for flashy lighting displays, there is a non-RGB version of the AF RGB ELITE, the AF ELITE. Available in a single pack of 120mm or 140mm sizes, with two colors to choose from, black and white.

The AF RGB SLIM fans are named after their slim design, which makes them perfect for PC builds where space is limited. Although they are niche in the PC market, they are just as powerful as other CORSAIR fans in terms of performance. Their slim design allows for better compatibility with small form factor cases or cases with restricted airflow, making them an excellent choice for those looking to optimize their PC's cooling system.

AF RGB SLIM fans are 120mm spec and available in a single or dual pack in black or white.

These fans are specifically designed to fit into the small spaces of your PC build while also adding an aesthetic appeal to it. With a sleek and low-profile design of only 15mm thickness, combined with 8 individually addressable RGB LEDs, these fans can create a stunning backdrop in your PC build.

AF RGB SLIM fans are also available in non-RGB models for a more minimalistic or stealthy build. You can get them in a 120mm single pack, black or white.

Incorporating RGB lighting in a PC has been a trend for years now and will be for years to come. Hence, many PC enthusiasts have RGB lighting in their setup to improve its visual appeal. Whether you prefer a subtle or a more pronounced lighting effect, any RGB lighting can enhance the overall look of your PC build. If you want to take the RGB lighting in your system to the next level, then CORSAIR LL RGB fans are the perfect solution.

Choose from single 120mm or 140mm, triple-pack for 120mm, and dual-pack for 140mm. White color variants are available in 120mm single and triple-pack kits.

The LL RGB fans have a unique design that sets them apart from other fans. They are specifically designed to have an impressive lighting effect. Each fan has two light loops - one in the middle and another just outside the fan blades. There are 16 independent RGB LEDs in each fan, split between the two light loops. This allows for endless customization options.

If you think that the LL RGB fans are not providing enough RGB lighting, then you might want to consider the QL RGB fans. The QL RGB fans are designed to make your PC system stand out, with each fan having four distinctive RGB lighting loops. These loops consist of two on one side and another two on the opposite side, creating an incredible light show from any angle. With the QL RGB fans, you can create mesmerizing, animated lighting effects. You can control the lighting effects with powerful CORSAIR iCUE software and synchronize them across all your iCUE-compatible products, making your system come to life with dynamic RGB lighting.

You can go for either a single 120mm or 140mm, a triple-pack for 120mm, or a dual-pack for 140mm. If you're planning or already have a white-themed build, you can get all bundles in white color.

The QL RGB series fan is known for its visually striking lighting effects. With 34 RGB LEDs, it allows for complex and customizable lighting effects that add a visually stunning look to your PC build. With so many RGB LEDs, the possibilities for custom lighting profiles are endless. Additionally, it provides excellent cooling performance through efficient airflow, making it one of the best PC fans available in the market that offers a perfect combination of great looks and performance.

At CORSAIR, we take pride in offering our customers the best PC fan solutions in the market. Our fans are the result of exceptional craftsmanship, innovative features, and cutting-edge technology designed to meet the specific needs of every PC enthusiast. Whether you are looking for optimal cooling, quiet operation, or stunning RGB effects, we have got you covered.

Visit our official website to explore CORSAIR's comprehensive fan lineup and discover how our fans can make a difference in your PC experience.