Looking Beyond the Apevia 80mm Case Fan 3-Pack? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Apevia AF38S BK 80mm black case alternatives offer a practical path for builders seeking specific cooling traits. This original fan provides quiet operation at 20 dBA and decent airflow at 17.21 CFM. It connects via standard 4-pin Molex or 3-pin motherboard headers. The compact 80mm size fits tight spaces well. You get a reliable 25,000-hour lifespan for basic system ventilation. However, you might want different connectivity or higher performance.
The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specs overlap with the original. You may need PWM control for precise speed management. Some options offer larger 120mm fans for improved air movement. Others provide single-unit purchases instead of a three-pack. You might prefer a premium brand for enhanced durability. This guide helps you compare these options based on their published specifications. You can find the right fit for your case size and noise requirements.
Our top pick: Apevia 80mm Case Fan 3-Pack.
How these options differ from Apevia
SUNGOOYUE Steel Fan Mounting Bracket
The SUNGOOYUE Steel Fan Mounting Bracket offers a structural solution rather than active cooling. It allows you to install a 120mm fan into an 80mm space. This adapts larger fans for improved cooling in constrained areas. You gain flexibility by mixing fan sizes. The bracket is rust-resistant and robust. It does not provide airflow itself. It is ideal for builders who need to upgrade airflow capacity without changing case holes. Unlike the Apevia 3-pack, this is a single mounting accessory. It helps when you want higher static pressure or airflow but are limited by existing chassis dimensions.
Kingwin 80mm Black Cooling Fan
The Kingwin 80mm Black Cooling Fan is a single-unit option, unlike the Apevia 3-pack. It targets users who need a quiet replacement fan without extra units. It lacks PWM control, focusing on simple, reliable airflow. The single count makes it a budget-friendly choice for swapping out one failed fan. You do not get the bulk value of three fans. It is practical for single-slot needs where noise is a priority. The Kingwin model is straightforward, avoiding complex features. It fits CPU coolers and case mounts. Choose this if you only need one fan and want a quiet, no-fuss operation.
Noctua Redux 80mm PWM Fan
The Noctua Redux 80mm PWM Fan provides automatic speed control via PWM, which the Apevia lacks. It balances performance and silence for single-slot needs. You get precise fan speed adjustment based on system temperature. It is ideal for builders who value quiet operation over bulk buying. The single unit is more expensive per fan than the Apevia pack. It offers better control but fewer units. The grey color and robust build suit users prioritizing reliability. Choose this if you need dynamic speed management and high-quality bearings in an 80mm form factor.
Noctua 80mm Redux Case Fan
The Noctua 80mm Redux Case Fan uses a 3-pin connector, limiting speed control options compared to the Apevia’s versatile Molex or 3-pin choice. It fits users who prioritize low noise and reliability. You must account for the connector limitation when planning your build. It offers quiet 80mm chassis ventilation. The single unit is a premium choice for acoustic performance. It lacks the bulk quantity of the Apevia 3-pack. It is best for small builds where silence is critical. Choose this if you have a compatible 3-pin header and want Noctua’s build quality in a single fan.
Noctua 80mm Quiet PWM Fan
The Noctua 80mm Quiet PWM Fan delivers precise PWM control and low noise for compact builds. It is ideal for ITX and HTPC cases where space is tight. You get reliable airflow without excessive sound. The PWM feature allows for automatic speed adjustment, which the Apevia does not offer. It is a single fan, so you do not get the value of three units. The brown color is distinct from the black Apevia. Choose this if you need advanced speed control and high reliability in a small form factor build.
Noctua 80mm 3-Pin Case Fan
The Noctua 80mm 3-Pin Case Fan provides reliable, quiet cooling for small form factor builds. It focuses on acoustic performance and longevity in tight spaces. The 3-pin connector limits speed control compared to PWM options. It is a single unit, unlike the Apevia 3-pack. You get high-quality bearings and quiet operation. It is ideal for users who value silence over bulk quantity. The brown color and robust design suit compact builds. Choose this if you have a 3-pin header and need a quiet, long-lasting fan for an ITX or HTPC case.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Apevia 80mm Case Fan 3-Pack Best overall | basic quiet cooling in compact cases | Check price of Apevia 80mm Case Fan 3-Pack on Amazon |
| 2 | SUNGOOYUE Steel Fan Mounting Bracket Best 120mm | Adapting 120mm fans for 80mm spaces | Check price of SUNGOOYUE Steel Fan Mounting Bracket on Amazon |
| 3 | Kingwin 80mm Black Cooling Fan Best budget | single quiet replacement fans | Check price of Kingwin 80mm Black Cooling Fan on Amazon |
| 4 | Noctua Redux 80mm PWM Fan Also great | quiet single-fan chassis ventilation | Check price of Noctua Redux 80mm PWM Fan on Amazon |
| 5 | Noctua 80mm Redux Case Fan Also great | quiet 80mm 3-pin case and NAS cooling | Check price of Noctua 80mm Redux Case Fan on Amazon |
| 6 | Noctua 80mm Quiet PWM Fan Also great | compact ITX and HTPC cases | Check price of Noctua 80mm Quiet PWM Fan on Amazon |
| 7 | Noctua 80mm 3-Pin Case Fan Best premium | Compact ITX and HTPC case cooling | Check price of Noctua 80mm 3-Pin Case Fan on Amazon |
Our 7 picks
Apevia 80mm Case Fan 3-Pack
Best for: basic quiet cooling in compact cases
- Fan Size
- 80mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 1500 ± 10% RPM
- Max Airflow
- 17.21 CFM
- Noise Level
- 20.0 dBA
- Connector Type
- 4pin Molex, 3pin
- Dimensions
- 3.15 × 3.15 × 0.98 inches
View on Amazon: Apevia 80mm Case Fan 3-Pack Affiliate link
The Apevia AF38S is an 80mm case fan designed for tight spaces. It delivers 17.21 CFM of airflow at 1500 RPM. The unit operates at 20 dBA for quiet performance. You get a 3-pack for comprehensive cooling. It connects via 4-pin Molex or 3-pin motherboard headers. This fan suits builds needing reliable, low-noise air movement in compact chassis.
Pros
- Delivers 17.21 CFM airflow for efficient cooling
- Quiet operation at 20 dBA noise level
- Flexible connectivity with 4-pin Molex and 3-pin options
- Includes three fans for multi-slot coverage
Cons
- Lower airflow compared to high-performance 80mm alternatives
- No PWM speed control, only fixed speed
- Shorter 25,000-hour lifespan than premium competitors
Good fit if
- You need quiet cooling for tight PC cases
- You require multiple 80mm fans for a build
- You prefer simple Molex or 3-pin connections
Skip if
- You need PWM speed control for dynamic adjustment
- You require high airflow for heavy thermal loads
- You want a fan with a longer lifespan
Verdict: Apevia AF38S 80mm Silent Fan 3-Pack offers solid quiet performance for basic cooling needs. It fits users who prioritize low noise and simple connectivity over high airflow or advanced control.
SUNGOOYUE Steel Fan Mounting Bracket
Best for: Adapting 120mm fans for 80mm spaces
- Fan Size
- 120mm, 80mm
- Dimensions
- 4.72 × 1.97 × 1.97 inches
View on Amazon: SUNGOOYUE Steel Fan Mounting Bracket Affiliate link
This stainless steel bracket adapts 80mm and 120mm fans for your case. It features a rust-resistant baking paint finish and includes long, short, and hex screws for secure mounting. The design helps align fans for better airflow and thermal management. It suits users needing to mount larger fans in smaller spaces or customize their cooling setup with mixed fan sizes.
Pros
- Supports both 80mm and 120mm fan sizes
- Constructed from thickened stainless steel for durability
- Includes long, short, and hex mounting screws
- Features a rust-resistant baking paint finish
Cons
- Requires separate purchase of fans
- Adds bulk to the mounting area
Good fit if
- You need to mount 120mm fans in 80mm slots
- You want a sturdy metal mounting solution
- You are building a custom cooling loop
Skip if
- You only use standard 80mm fans
- You prefer plastic mounting brackets
- You need a fan included in the package
Verdict: SUNGOOYUE Stainless Steel Fan Mount Bracket allows you to adapt larger fans for improved cooling in constrained spaces. It is ideal for builders mixing fan sizes who need a robust, rust-resistant mounting solution.
Kingwin 80mm Black Cooling Fan
Best for: single quiet replacement fans
- Fan Size
- 80mm
- Bearing Type
- Long Life Bearing
- Compatible Device
- CPU Cooler
- Dimensions
- 0.98 × 3.15 × 3.15 inches
- Weight
- 2.43 ounces
View on Amazon: Kingwin 80mm Black Cooling Fan Affiliate link
The Kingwin 80mm Silent Fan offers a single black unit designed for quiet PC cooling. It features a long life bearing and optimized blade design for ventilation. This fan fits standard 80mm mounts in cases, CPU coolers, and mining rigs. Its compact dimensions make it suitable for tight spaces. You get durable construction for extended use in high-performance environments.
Pros
- 80mm size for standard mounts
- Long life bearing for durability
- Optimized blade design for airflow
- Quiet operation for silent builds
Cons
- Sold as a single unit, not a pack
- No PWM speed control listed
- Lacks ARGB lighting options
Good fit if
- You need a single replacement fan
- You prioritize silent operation over speed
- You build in tight spaces
Skip if
- You want a multi-pack value
- You require PWM fan control
- You want RGB lighting effects
Verdict: Kingwin 80mm Silent Fan is a practical single-unit option for users who need quiet, reliable airflow without the complexity of PWM or RGB features.
Noctua Redux 80mm PWM Fan
Best for: quiet single-fan chassis ventilation
- Fan Size
- 80mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 1800 RPM
- Noise Level
- 17.1 dB(A)
- Connector Type
- 4-pin PWM
- Dimensions
- 3.15 × 3.15 × 0.98 inches
- Weight
- 4.8 ounces
View on Amazon: Noctua Redux 80mm PWM Fan Affiliate link
The Noctua NF-R8 redux-1800 is an 80mm cooling fan designed for chassis ventilation. It features a 4-pin PWM connector for automatic speed control and reaches a maximum of 1800 RPM. The unit operates at a quiet 17.1 dB(A) while delivering strong static pressure. Its 25mm thickness fits standard mounts. This fan suits users who need reliable airflow with minimal noise in compact systems.
Pros
- 4-pin PWM connector for motherboard speed control
- Maximum speed of 1800 RPM for strong airflow
- Quiet operation at 17.1 dB(A)
- High MTTF rating of over 150,000 hours
Cons
- Single unit sold, not a multi-pack
- Grey color may not match black builds
- Fixed 25mm thickness limits deep-slot compatibility
Good fit if
- You need automatic speed control via PWM
- You prioritize low noise in a small case
- You want a replacement fan with high reliability
Skip if
- You require a multi-pack for full case cooling
- You prefer black fans for aesthetic consistency
- You need a thicker fan for high static pressure
Verdict: Noctua 80mm Quiet Fan offers a balance of performance and silence for single-slot needs. It fits users who value quiet operation and automatic speed control over bulk buying.
Noctua 80mm Redux Case Fan
Best for: quiet 80mm 3-pin case and NAS cooling
- Fan Size
- 80mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 1800 RPM
- Noise Level
- 17.1 dB(A)
- Connector Type
- 3-pin Molex
- Dimensions
- 3.15 × 3.15 × 0.98 inches
- Weight
- 3.53 ounces
View on Amazon: Noctua 80mm Redux Case Fan Affiliate link
This is an 80mm grey case fan from Noctua designed for chassis ventilation and cooling compact enclosures. It spins at a fixed maximum speed of 1800 RPM while producing 17.1 dB(A) of acoustic noise. With its standard 3-pin connector and 25mm thickness, it gives you a quiet replacement option for small enclosures or NAS units requiring consistent airflow.
Pros
- Low noise rating of 17.1 dB(A)
- Top rotational speed of 1800 RPM
- Rated mean time to failure exceeding 150,000 hours
- Standard 80x80x25mm form factor fits NAS units and small cases
Cons
- Uses a 3-pin connector rather than a 4-pin PWM header
- Speed reduction requires separate low-noise adapters or voltage control
- Anti-vibration mounts and extension cables are optional accessories
Good fit if
- You need an 80mm fan that runs quietly at 17.1 dB(A).
- You have a 3-pin fan header on your motherboard or NAS.
- You want a 25mm-thick cooling fan with a long MTTF rating.
Skip if
- You require 4-pin PWM speed control from your motherboard.
- You need bundled accessories like anti-vibration mounts or y-splitters.
Verdict: Noctua Redux 80mm Quiet Fan suits builders replacing noisy 80mm fans in small chassis or NAS setups who run cooling via 3-pin headers.
Noctua 80mm Quiet PWM Fan
Best for: compact ITX and HTPC cases
- Fan Size
- 80mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 2200 RPM
- Noise Level
- 17.7 dB(A)
- Connector Type
- 4-pin PWM
- Dimensions
- 3.15 × 3.15 × 0.98 inches
- Weight
- 7.76 ounces
View on Amazon: Noctua 80mm Quiet PWM Fan Affiliate link
The Noctua NF-A8 PWM is an 80mm case fan designed for high-performance quiet cooling. It measures 80x80x25 mm and uses a 4-pin PWM connector for automatic speed control. The fan reaches a maximum speed of 2200 RPM while maintaining a noise level of 17.7 dB(A). This model suits users needing reliable airflow in compact ITX or HTPC builds where space is limited.
Pros
- 4-pin PWM connector for automatic speed control
- Maximum speed of 2200 RPM for strong airflow
- Low noise output of 17.7 dB(A)
- Includes Low-Noise Adaptor to limit speed to 1750 RPM
Cons
- Smaller 80mm size limits airflow compared to 120mm fans
- Includes Low-Noise Adaptor which caps max speed at 1750 RPM
- Brown color may not match all case aesthetics
Good fit if
- You need a 4-pin PWM fan for precise speed control
- You are building a compact ITX or HTPC case
- You prioritize low noise levels under 18 dB(A)
Skip if
- You require a larger 120mm or 140mm fan size
- You need a fan with RGB lighting effects
- You prefer a fan color other than brown
Verdict: Noctua NF-A8 PWM 80mm Quiet Fan delivers precise PWM control and low noise for compact builds. It fits users who need reliable airflow in small form factor cases without excessive sound.
Noctua 80mm 3-Pin Case Fan
Best for: Compact ITX and HTPC case cooling
- Fan Size
- 80mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 2000 RPM
- Noise Level
- 16.1 dB(A)
- Connector Type
- 3-pin Molex
- Dimensions
- 3.15 × 3.15 × 0.98 inches
- Weight
- 8.11 ounces
View on Amazon: Noctua 80mm 3-Pin Case Fan Affiliate link
The Noctua NF-A8 FLX is an 80mm fan designed for compact builds like ITX or HTPC cases. It measures 80x80x25mm and runs on a 3-pin Molex connector. You can choose between 2000, 1650, or 1200 RPM using the included low-noise adapters. It offers a maximum noise level of 16.1 dB(A) and an estimated lifespan of over 150,000 hours. This fan suits users who need quiet cooling in small spaces.
Pros
- Three speed settings via included adapters for 2000, 1650, or 1200 RPM
- Low noise output of 16.1 dB(A) at maximum speed
- Includes low-noise and ultra-low-noise adapters for fine-tuning
- Long MTTF rating of over 150,000 hours
Cons
- Uses a 3-pin Molex connector instead of modern 4-pin PWM
- Fixed 80mm size limits compatibility with larger chassis
- Brown color may not match all aesthetic preferences
Good fit if
- You are building a compact ITX or HTPC case
- You need a replacement fan for a NAS or similar device
- You prioritize near-silent operation over maximum airflow
Skip if
- You require PWM speed control via motherboard headers
- You need a fan larger than 80mm
- You prefer RGB lighting or modern black aesthetics
Verdict: Noctua NF-A8 FLX 80mm Quiet Fan provides reliable, quiet cooling for small form factor builds. It fits users who value acoustic performance and longevity in tight spaces.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Apevia 80mm Case Fan 3-Pack | SUNGOOYUE Steel Fan Mounting Bracket | Kingwin 80mm Black Cooling Fan | Noctua Redux 80mm PWM Fan | Noctua 80mm Redux Case Fan | Noctua 80mm Quiet PWM Fan | Noctua 80mm 3-Pin Case Fan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fan Size | 80mm | not stated | 80mm | 80mm | 80mm | 80mm | 80mm |
| Max Fan Speed | 1500 ± 10% RPM | not stated | not stated | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Max Airflow | 17.21 CFM | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Noise Level | 20.0 dBA | not stated | not stated | 17.1 dB(A) | 17.1 dB(A) | 17.7 dB(A) | 16.1 dB(A) |
| Connector Type | 4pin Molex, 3pin | not stated | not stated | 4-pin PWM | 3-pin Molex | 4-pin PWM | 3-pin Molex |
| Bearing Type | not stated | not stated | Long Life Bearing | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Compatible Device | not stated | not stated | CPU Cooler | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 3.15 × 3.15 × 0.98 inches | 4.72 × 1.97 × 1.97 inches | 0.98 × 3.15 × 3.15 inches | 3.15 × 3.15 × 0.98 inches | 3.15 × 3.15 × 0.98 inches | 3.15 × 3.15 × 0.98 inches | 3.15 × 3.15 × 0.98 inches |
| Weight | 3 ounces | not stated | 2.43 ounces | 4.8 ounces | 3.53 ounces | 7.76 ounces | 8.11 ounces |
| Color | AF38S-BK | not stated | Black | Grey | Grey | Brown | brown |
| Model | AF38S-BK | SUNGOOYUEoegt1q7hkd-11 | CF-08LB | NF-R8 redux-1800 PWM | NF-R8 redux-1800 | NF-A8 PWM | NF-A8 FLX |
| Size | not stated | not stated | 1 Count (Pack of 1) | 80x80x25 mm | 80x80x25mm | 80x80x25mm | 80x80x25mm |
Another guide worth a look: cooler master mf120 lite black case alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Can I fit a 120mm fan into an 80mm case slot?
Yes, you can use the SUNGOOYUE Steel Fan Mounting Bracket to adapt larger fans. This bracket allows you to install a 120mm fan into an 80mm space. It provides a robust and rust-resistant mounting solution. This is ideal for builders who need to mix fan sizes for improved cooling in constrained areas.
What is the best single 80mm fan for quiet operation?
The Noctua NF-R8 redux-1800 PWM is a strong choice for quiet single-fan ventilation. It offers a balance of performance and silence for single-slot needs. This fan fits users who value quiet operation and automatic speed control. It is available in grey and weighs 4.8 ounces for a standard 80mm footprint.
Is there a budget-friendly 80mm replacement fan available?
The Kingwin 80mm Silent Fan is a practical single-unit option for budget-conscious builders. It provides quiet, reliable airflow without the complexity of PWM or RGB features. This black fan weighs 2.43 ounces and is compatible with CPU coolers. It is a simple solution for users needing a direct replacement.
Which 80mm fan offers precise PWM control for compact builds?
The Noctua NF-A8 PWM fan delivers precise PWM control and low noise. It is designed for compact ITX and HTPC cases where reliable airflow is critical. This brown fan weighs 7.76 ounces. It fits users who need to manage sound levels carefully in small form factor builds.
How does the Noctua NF-R8 differ from the NF-A8?
The NF-R8 redux-1800 is a grey fan that balances performance and silence for single-slot needs. The NF-A8 PWM is a brown fan focused on precise speed control for compact builds. The NF-R8 weighs 4.8 ounces, while the NF-A8 weighs 7.76 ounces. Both serve different priorities in quiet ventilation.
What is the best 80mm fan for longevity and acoustic performance?
The Noctua NF-A8 FLX provides reliable, quiet cooling for small form factor builds. It focuses on acoustic performance and longevity in tight spaces. This brown fan weighs 8.11 ounces. It fits users who prioritize long-term reliability and low noise over high-speed airflow adjustments.
Can I use the SUNGOOYUE bracket with any 120mm fan?
The SUNGOOYUE Stainless Steel Fan Mount Bracket allows you to adapt larger fans for improved cooling. It is designed to fit 120mm fans into 80mm spaces. This solution is ideal for builders mixing fan sizes. You gain flexibility in cooling configuration while maintaining a robust, rust-resistant mounting structure.