If you are experiencing overheating issues and want to upgrade your fan, you must measure the installed fan size so the new fan can fit correctly inside your computer case.
Most of the time, people want to know the sizes of their PC fans and the voltage required to run. But they are yet to learn about the entire mechanism and how to go about it, so here, we will guide you on measuring PC fan size with a straightforward step-by-step approach.
It will also provide insights into the fan size’s significance and how to measure it accurately.
Check out this write-up in case your computer doesn’t turn on but fans are running.
How Are Computer Fans Sized?
Computer fans are primarily sized according to two key dimensions and those two are: Diameter and Square Mounting Frame Size.
Follow these methods if you want to measure the fan of your computer accurately:
1. Measuring The Fan Itself
You can easily measure the cooling fan diameter by turning off your computer and disconnecting the fan from the power source.
All you need to do is locate the center of the fan and then measure the diameter using a tape or a ruler.
Place a measuring tape horizontally across the fan, then take the readings side-by-side and note it on paper.
Now, check the casing or packaging of your PC to find the cooling fan measurements.
Now, fit the fan in a casing and compare the readings with the measurements on the PC casing.
Measuring the fan diagonally isn’t recommended as the readings mentioned officially by the manufacturers are taken horizontally in millimeters.
2. Measuring Fan From Edge To Edge
To measure the fan from edge to edge, please turn off your computer and remove it from its housing.
Then, place the fan on a flat surface and measure from one edge to the opposite edge using a measuring tape or a ruler.
3. Measure The Mounting Holes
If you don’t want to open the case to access the fan, you can measure the fan mounting holes to measure the fan size.
This is how it can be done:
- Look for the mounting holes in your PC’s casing.
- Get hold of a measuring tape and then measure from one middle of a hole to the other.
- Ensure to take readings horizontally and not diagonally.
- Add 10-15 mm to the mounting hole measurement to find the approximate size of your PC fan.
4. Checking Manufacturer’s Info
The last resort is to check the manufacturer’s info or the number of your fan model.
You need to refer to the product specification sheet or the manufacturer’s website to find the exact fan size. Also, check the packaging of your PC’s casing and look for numbers under the “Cooler” section.
Each number mentioned there will denote the size of the fan based on its positioning.
Different Computer Fan Size
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40 mm Fans
40 mm fans are the smallest size computer case fans that are commercially available. Many single-unit rack devices, such as servers and network switches, take 40mm fans.
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80 mm Fans
These compact fans are often found in minor cases or as auxiliary fans on specific components. It provides additional airflow in tight areas without taking up too much room.
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92 mm Fans
92 mm fans are the least common among all the “typical” fan sizes, with few PC cases using this fan size. These fans feature in CPU coolers and include the Intel stock cooler.
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120 mm Fans
These fans have the perfect balance, size, and performance, making them a popular choice for case cooling.
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140 mm Fans
These fans are known explicitly for moving more air by maintaining lower noise levels. It requires efficient cooling without the extra racket.
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180 mm Fans
These fans are exclusively used as case fans as there isn’t a radiator or CPU tower cooler that is large enough to support them. These fans’ main attraction is the air they can push at low RPMs.
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200 mm Fans
These giant fans are often seen in cases designed for maximum cooling. It keeps things cool without making a jet engine sound like a take-off since they can flow much air at a lower RPM.
Choosing A PC Fan
Choosing the right computer fan is crucial for optimal cooling performance and noise levels in your device.
But when choosing a computer fan, it is essential to consider various factors.
Here are some of the critical factors to consider:
Size
Size is one of the most critical factors you should consider before purchasing, or you will buy something too big or too small.
The standard size of a computer fan is 120 mm and is most common in modern computers. The giant fans spin a little slower than the smaller fans but still offer the same air to the PC.
Speed
Buyers should also consider speed as one such factor when selecting a computer fan. In fans, the speed is measured in RPM, which stands for revolution per Minute.
If the RPM of a fan is high, then the fan will spin faster, making the fan louder than usual.
In order to turn off the computer fan if required check out this complete guide.
Power Consumption
You need to be a bit choosy while buying a fan since the electricity bill is a matter of concern.
So, be careful about the power used while buying a computer fan. Ampere and Voltage are the measurement metrics of how much a fan consumes power.
Noise Level
Noise level is another crucial aspect that should be considered before buying a computer fan.
The noise level is measured in decibels, and larger fans are known to operate at lower speeds, thereby reducing noise, while the smaller fans need to run at higher speeds and increase noise.
Compatibility With Your System
Before buying a fan, you should consider its compatibility with your system.
To do so, check the size of your case, the available mounting holes, and the power connectors on your motherboard to ensure that the fan you choose is compatible.
High CFM Vs High Airflow Fans
High CFM fans provide excellent cooling by moving a large volume of air.
However, it can be louder than high airflow fans, which provides efficient cooling at lower noise levels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What Is The Significance Of Airflow In Computer Fans?
Airflow signifies the volume of air a fan can move in a minute. It is an influential factor for effective cooling in a computer case.
- What Are Static Pressure Fans And How Are They Important?
Static pressure fans push the air through obstacles, making them ideal for use on radiators and heat sinks. They are essential for maintaining good airflow in areas with resistance.
- How Is Fan Speed Measured?
Fan speed is usually measured in rotations per minute (RPM), indicating how fast the fan blades rotate. A higher RPM value generally signifies that the fan can move more air but produce more noise.
Final Words
Now that you have read the full article and gathered all the knowledge, you can make the best decision when buying a computer fan.
Measuring the size of a fan directly is simple, but understanding the methods of measuring it ensures accuracy and a smooth replacement process.
