How to use multiple fans in different placements

Posted by Armyleavedates@reddit | buildapc | View on Reddit | 3 comments

I’m planning a build with a Corsair 4500X and want to attach 2 fans on the lifted area and then the 3rd fan as exhaust on the side panel above the GPU. This is my first build ever and have no idea how it works when using fans. Would I have to get a 3 pack and then separate 1 or would I have to get 3 separate fans?

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Gaz8t33@reddit

You can probably get a pack of 3 for the cost of 2. The 4500X also supports 3 x 120mm at the bottom, so I’d probably get a triple pack of Corsair RS120-R ARGB fans for the bottom intake (or just 2 at the bottom and have one as a spare) and then a single Corsair RS120R ARGB fan for the rear exhaust

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Armyleavedates@reddit (OP)

I’m thinking of using AsiaHorse Cosmiq 120mm since its modular and has a sleek look to it

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Aleksanterinleivos@reddit

For most standard fans a triple pack is just a way to save money.

For some that use proprietary connections the triple pack is like the "starting pack" that comes with a controller they require, and the individual fans are almost add-ons to that. In that case you'd want to make sure you have the controller, whether that means the triple pack or buying it separately then.

And if you care about aesthetics, fan orientation matters. So using the case you mentioned as an example the three included stock fans on the side are reverse flow, that means the "pretty" side is facing the inside/side you can see, while they still blow into the case too. If you used standard flow fans in those spots, they would be facing the other way, meaning you either need to look at the "ugly" side or have them blow out.

If you want the other fans to match, you should get reverse fans on the bottom and standard fans on the top and rear. In that config the pretty side always faces the inside of the case, and you'd have side/bottom to top/rear airflow through the case.