Page 3 - Performance Tests
To evaluate the performance of the Corsair iCUE Link LX120 RGB fans, we used the APH Networks proprietary testing method, developed in-house. This ingenious approach offers an affordable way to assess fan performance using just tissue paper and tape. The test results provide a qualitative measure of airflow, airflow consistency, and the static pressure generated by the fan. The experimental setup was simple. As depicted in the above photos, a piece of tissue paper was placed on top of each fan, naturally falling onto the outlet side where the motor assembly is positioned. The fans were placed near the edge of a table to minimize the effect of reflected airflow on the results. After powering on the fans, we assessed airflow, consistency, and static pressure by observing the tissue paper's behavior. Tests were conducted at all available RPM levels, but for this review, only the photos of the fans at maximum RPM are shown, representing their best possible performance in terms of airflow and pressure.
The photos above illustrate the test outcomes in detail. As observed, the fan generated enough static pressure to keep the tissue paper nearly parallel to the ground, indicating strong and consistent air movement through the blades. The airflow produced was substantial, lifting and maintaining the rear end of the tissue paper in an elevated position, which demonstrates the fan's capability to create a stable flow even at maximum output. While the tissue paper remained generally stable, minor vibrations were noticed at its far end. These vibrations were primarily due to turbulence occurring along the edges of the paper, which is an expected phenomenon given the material's light weight and flexibility. The slight fluttering at the edges, however, was caused by the inherent properties of tissue paper -- its sensitivity to any minor irregularities in airflow -- and should not be taken as an indication of poor fan performance. Overall, the fan performed admirably in maintaining both airflow and static pressure, demonstrating its efficiency and effectiveness under typical usage scenarios.
The noise performance of the LX120 fans was notably impressive, and there are three main reasons for this. First, PWM modulation ensures that the fan adjusts its speed dynamically and does not always run at maximum RPM, reducing unnecessary noise. Second, the rubber pads around the mounting holes serve as dampeners, minimizing vibrations. Imagine the difference between a vibrating phone on a hard surface versus a soft one -- the same concept applies here. Finally, the use of magnetic dome bearings allows the fan to spin smoothly. As with all our reviews at APH Networks, we rate noise levels on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being absolute silence and 10 being the loudest. For the Corsair iCUE Link LX120 RGB, I would rate it at 3.5/10. Overall, the LX120 offers low noise levels and is quiet enough to run on a computer in a bedroom environment 24/7.
Page Index
1. Introduction, Packaging, Specifications
2. A Closer Look - Hardware and Software
3. Performance Tests
4. Conclusion
