We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Quiet PC Fans 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

ARCTIC P14 Max (5 Pack) - PC Fans, High-Performance 140mm Case Fan, PWM controlled 400–2800 rpm, Optimised for static pressure, 0dB mode - Black

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,387
Noise Level (dBA)
Airflow (CFM)
Fan Size

Most important from
460 reviews

Noise Level (dBA)
At maximum speed, the fan can be quite loud, so effective PWM control is essential to balance noise and performance.
Airflow (CFM)
The fan delivers powerful airflow, making it ideal for cooling radiators and restricted airflow scenarios when properly tuned.
Fan Size
The 140mm size with 27mm thickness fits most cases but can be a tight fit with fan grilles, requiring some space consideration.
Bearing Type
0dB mode and fluid dynamic bearings contribute to quiet operation and durability, especially under low load.
RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)
Users appreciate the wide speed range up to 2800 RPM, offering flexibility for different cooling needs.
PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)
At maximum speed, the fan can be quite loud, so effective PWM control is essential to balance noise and performance.

The ARCTIC P14 Max fans are designed to provide strong cooling performance with a high airflow of 95 CFM and a wide speed range from 400 to 2800 RPM, which can be finely controlled using PWM. Their 140mm size fits most standard PC cases, making them versatile for users looking to improve airflow or cool heat sinks and radiators. These fans use fluid dynamic bearings, which help keep noise levels low and extend the fan's lifespan by reducing wear over time.

A notable feature is the 0dB mode, where the fan stops spinning completely under low load to eliminate noise entirely. The design includes a closed ring fan wheel that reduces vibrations even at high speeds, contributing to quieter operation. However, while the fan is optimized for static pressure and strong airflow, running at higher speeds (up to 2800 RPM) can be noisy, so noise-sensitive users might prefer to keep speeds lower.

The pack of five fans offers good value for those building or upgrading multiple cooling zones. These fans successfully balance power and quietness, especially for users needing effective cooling on components with airflow restrictions like radiators.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,387
Noise Level (dBA)
Airflow (CFM)
Fan Size

Most important from
460 reviews

Noise Level (dBA)
At maximum speed, the fan can be quite loud, so effective PWM control is essential to balance noise and performance.
Airflow (CFM)
The fan delivers powerful airflow, making it ideal for cooling radiators and restricted airflow scenarios when properly tuned.
Fan Size
The 140mm size with 27mm thickness fits most cases but can be a tight fit with fan grilles, requiring some space consideration.
Bearing Type
0dB mode and fluid dynamic bearings contribute to quiet operation and durability, especially under low load.
RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)
Users appreciate the wide speed range up to 2800 RPM, offering flexibility for different cooling needs.
PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)
At maximum speed, the fan can be quite loud, so effective PWM control is essential to balance noise and performance.
#2

Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB 120mm Magnetic Dome RGB Fans - Triple Fan Starter Kit with iCUE LINK System Hub - Black

Rating
9.8
Noise Level (dBA)

Most important from
1699 reviews

Noise Level (dBA)
Noise levels remain well-controlled up to moderate speeds, providing a quieter experience comparable to premium quiet fans.

The Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB fans offer a good balance between cooling performance and quiet operation, making them suitable for users seeking effective yet low-noise PC fans. These 120mm fans feature a magnetic dome bearing that helps reduce friction and noise, especially at lower speeds. They operate between 480 and 2,400 RPM and can push up to 63.1 cubic feet of air per minute, providing strong cooling capability without always running at full speed. Noise levels reach about 37 decibels at maximum speed, which is noticeable but still relatively quiet compared to many standard fans. The included PWM control adjusts fan speed automatically based on your system's temperature, and a Zero RPM mode lets the fans stop completely when cooling demand is low, eliminating noise entirely in those moments.

Aesthetically, these fans come with bright RGB lighting and unique effects, controlled via Corsair's iCUE system, which also allows you to connect multiple fans neatly with a hub and bridge connectors. While the noise at peak performance is higher than ultra-quiet fans, the price reflects the premium features and lighting. These fans represent a solid choice for efficient cooling with customizable lighting and quieter operation in a well-coordinated setup.

Rating
9.8
Noise Level (dBA)

Most important from
1699 reviews

Noise Level (dBA)
Noise levels remain well-controlled up to moderate speeds, providing a quieter experience comparable to premium quiet fans.
#3

Fractal Design Aspect 12 RGB 120 mm PWM Wide 500-2000 RPM Range Black Frame 3-Pack Computer Fan

Rating
9.7
Noise Level (dBA)

Most important from
138 reviews

Noise Level (dBA)
Noise levels can be noticeably high at full speed, resembling 'little jet engines,' which might be disruptive in quieter environments.

The Fractal Design Aspect 12 RGB is a 120mm computer fan designed with a focus on quiet operation and efficient cooling. It operates between 500 and 2000 RPM, providing a good range to balance airflow and noise. At its maximum speed, it produces about 33 dB of noise, which is moderately quiet but might be noticeable in very silent environments. The fan includes rifle bearings, which generally offer longer life and smoother, quieter running compared to basic sleeve bearings. It also features aerodynamic stator struts and Trip Wire technology to improve blade efficiency and reduce turbulence, helping to keep noise levels down while maintaining airflow.

The fan supports PWM control, allowing your system to adjust fan speed based on temperature, which helps keep noise low when full cooling isn't needed. One of the fan’s standout features is the 6 individually addressable RGB LEDs, compatible with many popular lighting systems, making it a good choice if you want to add customizable lighting to your build. Cable management is simplified thanks to the ability to chain power and RGB cables.

On the downside, the fan uses a 3-pin connector instead of the more common 4-pin PWM header, which might limit precise speed control on some motherboards. Also, while 33 dB is relatively quiet, there are quieter fans available for those seeking near-silent operation. This fan suits users looking to combine decent airflow, moderate quietness, and attractive RGB lighting in a mid-range PC setup.

Rating
9.7
Noise Level (dBA)

Most important from
138 reviews

Noise Level (dBA)
Noise levels can be noticeably high at full speed, resembling 'little jet engines,' which might be disruptive in quieter environments.

Buying Guide for the Best Quiet PC Fans

Choosing the right PC fan is crucial for maintaining your computer's performance and longevity. A quiet PC fan can significantly reduce noise levels, making your workspace more comfortable and less distracting. When selecting a PC fan, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the main specs to look out for and how to navigate them.
Noise Level (dBA)The noise level of a PC fan is measured in decibels (dBA). This spec indicates how loud the fan will be when it's running. Lower dBA values mean quieter fans. Typically, fans with noise levels below 20 dBA are considered very quiet, while those between 20-30 dBA are moderately quiet. If you need a silent environment, aim for fans with noise levels under 20 dBA.
Airflow (CFM)Airflow is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) and indicates how much air the fan can move. Higher CFM values mean better cooling performance. For general use, a fan with 30-50 CFM is usually sufficient. For gaming or high-performance PCs, you might need fans with 50-70 CFM or more. Choose a fan with the right balance of airflow and noise level based on your cooling needs.
Fan SizePC fans come in various sizes, typically measured in millimeters (mm). Common sizes include 120mm, 140mm, and 200mm. Larger fans can move more air at lower speeds, which often results in quieter operation. However, you need to ensure the fan size is compatible with your PC case. Check your case specifications to determine the maximum fan size it can accommodate.
Bearing TypeThe bearing type affects the fan's lifespan and noise level. Common types include sleeve bearings, ball bearings, and fluid dynamic bearings (FDB). Sleeve bearings are usually quieter but have a shorter lifespan. Ball bearings are more durable but can be noisier. FDB fans offer a good balance of quiet operation and longevity. Choose a bearing type based on your preference for noise level and durability.
RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)RPM indicates how fast the fan blades spin. Higher RPMs generally mean better cooling but can also result in more noise. Fans with adjustable RPM settings allow you to balance cooling performance and noise. For a quiet PC, look for fans with lower RPMs or those that offer RPM control so you can adjust the speed as needed.
PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)PWM fans can automatically adjust their speed based on the temperature of your PC components. This feature helps maintain optimal cooling while minimizing noise. If you want a fan that can adapt to your system's needs without constant manual adjustments, look for PWM fans. They are particularly useful for maintaining a quiet environment during low-load periods.

FAQ