Layout, design and features …
Let’s take a look at the NZXT F120X A-RGB fan.
From the very first touch, it’s clear that the NZXT F120X belongs in the premium segment. Weighing in at approximately 275 grams, it’s nearly twice as heavy as a budget fan—though this is partly due to its 30mm thickness, compared to the standard 25mm. This is definitely something to keep in mind when building a PC. Both the rotor and the frame are made from a special liquid crystal polymer (LCP). This unique plastic is exceptionally stable and strong, making it the perfect material for building fans. The LCP rotor allows for significantly higher RPMs than when using standard plastic, as the rotor blades vibrate less due to the increased stability. Additionally, the construction is reinforced by the use of aluminum on the rotor hub as well as on the frame. On top of that, the black anodized aluminum in the frame gives the F120X a sleek look. No matter which angle you view the F120X from, you won’t find a single flaw. Typical of its American origin are the countless stickers and warning labels, which you’ll want to remove before installation.
All edges of the 7-blade rotor are finished to absolute perfection. There are no burrs whatsoever, and the clearance dimensions are uniformly minimal. A hybrid bearing stabilizes the rotor—which spins at speeds of up to 3,100 RPM—both magnetically and hydrodynamically; however, the 6-pole drive motor does not allow the fan to come to a complete stop. With a minimum speed of 340 RPM, the fan is therefore always running. Thanks to PWM control, the F120X can be finely adjusted across the entire speed range and tailored to the specific application, as you don’t always need the 176.7 m³/h airflow and 7.53 mmH₂O static pressure that the F120X is capable of delivering. To ensure that the visual performance doesn’t lag behind, NZXT equipped the F120X with a total of 16 addressable RGB LEDs, located in the corners behind frosted inserts.
Solid, curved struts provide the rotor with sufficient stability even in strong winds. The cables are routed almost invisibly through the struts and exit the frame at a single point. Unfortunately, the F120X only features individual connectors for the fan motor and RGB lighting at the ends of the 600mm-long connection cables, so you’ll need to source the necessary splitter cables yourself to cascade multiple fans. In addition to the standard connectors for the fan motor and A-RGB lighting, the F120X also features a proprietary NZXT connector for RGB lighting. The package is rounded out by vibration-damping rubber pads, which are located on both sides at all four corners.
NZXT F120X Installation and Practical testing …