Lian Li UNI Fan SL V2 Review (2026): A Spec-Based Look
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This lian li lian li uni fan sl review focuses on the 120mm ARGB PWM model. The frame is 28mm thick, which provides 10% better airflow than the previous version. It uses an improved daisy chain design to connect two clusters of fans. You only need one cable per cluster when using the included UNI HUB for L-Connect 3 control. Removable interlocking keys help with radiator clearance. The lighting is smoother for a better look. Start/stop support keeps the environment quiet when the system is idle.
What stands out
- 28mm frame thickness for 10% improved airflow
- Improved daisy chain design for two fan clusters
- Removable interlocking keys for radiator clearance
- Start/stop fan RPM support for quiet operation
- Single cable per cluster with UNI HUB
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should choose this fan if you want better airflow in a standard 120mm setup. The thicker frame helps move more air. The daisy chain feature simplifies cable management for multiple fans. If you use L-Connect 3, the single cable per cluster keeps your build clean. The start/stop mode is useful for silent operation during light tasks. The removable keys are helpful if you have thick radiators. This is a solid choice for users who value efficient cooling and tidy wiring.
Who should skip it
Skip this option if you need non-ARGB lighting. This model only supports ARGB effects. You might prefer a different fan if you do not plan to use the UNI HUB or L-Connect 3 software. The daisy chain design requires specific hubs for full functionality. If you need a fan that works without software control, look elsewhere. Also, consider other options if you require a thinner frame for tight spaces. This fan is best for those who want the specific features listed in the specs.
Verdict: The Lian Li UNI Fan SL V2 offers improved airflow and cleaner cable management for 120mm builds. It suits users who want ARGB lighting and software control.
Key specs explained for this fan
Fan Size: 120mm
This dimension defines the physical footprint of the fan blades. A 120mm fan fits standard mounting holes in most PC cases and radiators. It offers a balance between air movement and noise levels. You should check your case specifications to ensure compatibility. This size is common for both intake and exhaust positions in standard mid-tower and full-tower chassis designs.
Lighting Type: ARGB
Addressable RGB allows you to control the color of each individual LED. This creates complex lighting effects and patterns rather than a single static color. You can sync these lights with motherboard software or the L-Connect 3 app. This feature suits users who want precise aesthetic customization for their build. It requires a compatible ARGB header or hub for full functionality.
Frame Thickness: 28mm
The fan frame measures 28mm thick. This increased thickness provides 10% improved airflow compared to the previous V1 version. Thicker frames often house larger motors or optimized blade designs. This benefit matters for cooling efficiency in tight spaces. You should compare this metric when upgrading older fans to see if the new design moves more air through your system components.
Daisy Chain Design: Connects 2 clusters
The improved daisy chain design lets you connect two separate clusters of fans. This simplifies cable management by reducing the number of connections to your motherboard or hub. You can run multiple fans from a single control point. This feature is useful for builds with many fans. It helps keep your case interior tidy and reduces clutter around the power supply area.
Design and build details
The frame is 28mm thick according to the listing. This increased thickness provides 10% improved airflow compared to the previous version. You should check your case dimensions to ensure this extra depth fits your intended mounting location. The fan size is 120mm, which is the standard footprint for most PC cases and radiators. This size offers a practical balance between air movement and noise levels for general cooling tasks.
The design includes removable interlocking keys. These allow for better radiator clearance when installing the fan on a radiator. You can remove these keys if you need extra space for thicker radiators or specific mounting configurations. The listing notes an improved daisy chain design. This feature lets you connect two clusters of fans together. You only need one cable for each cluster when using the provided UNI HUB. This simplifies cable management inside your case.
Lighting is handled by ARGB technology. The listing describes smoother side lighting for a better aesthetic. You control these effects via L-Connect 3 software. The fan also supports start/stop RPM modes. This feature helps create a quieter environment when your system is idle. The overall build focuses on connectivity and airflow efficiency rather than complex mechanical adjustments. You get a straightforward installation process with clear mounting options.
Setup Process and Everyday Operation
Setting up this 120mm fan centers on Lian Li's interlocking hardware. The improved daisy chain design lets you connect two clusters of fans together into a unified arrangement. When mounting units onto liquid cooling radiators, the interlocking keys are removable. Taking off these keys provides better radiator clearance along the frame, ensuring the housing does not collide with nearby radiator fittings or tube runs.
Cable management uses the provided new UNI HUB. When connecting through this hub, you only need one cable for each fan cluster. Eliminating multiple separate wiring leads simplifies routing behind your PC case tray. After plugging the hardware into the hub, you control the ARGB lighting effects via L-Connect 3 software. This program coordinates the smoother side lighting accents across all connected modules.
Everyday use is defined by PWM operation and start/stop RPM support. When system temperatures remain low, the fan blades can stop spinning entirely to provide a quieter environment during light tasks. Once thermal demands rise, the fan ramps up. Its 28mm frame thickness provides 10% improved airflow compared to V1 fans, maintaining effective system cooling during heavier daily computer usage.
Check compatibility and setup needs
You should verify your case compatibility before purchasing this fan. The 28mm frame thickness requires extra depth compared to standard 25mm models. Check your radiator or exhaust slot clearance to ensure the fan fits without obstructing other components. You must also account for the daisy chain system. While the design connects two clusters, you need the UNI HUB for lighting control via L-Connect 3. Only one cable manages each cluster’s effects. This setup simplifies wiring but requires specific hubs. If you already own Lian Li fans, this model integrates well. For mixed builds, ensure your motherboard supports ARGB PWM signals. Regular cleaning maintains airflow efficiency. Dust accumulation on the thicker frame can reduce performance. This fan suits users who prioritize improved airflow and streamlined cabling over minimal depth. It fits best in cases with adequate space for the 28mm profile. Consider your total fan count when planning the daisy chain links to avoid exceeding hub limits. The start/stop RPM feature helps reduce noise during idle periods.
Check before you buy
- Verify 28mm depth fits your case or radiator
- Ensure ARGB PWM header availability on motherboard
- Confirm UNI HUB inclusion for lighting control
- Check clearance for removable interlocking keys
The product at a glance
Lian Li UNI Fan SL V2 120mm ARGB Fan
Best for: 120mm cases using Lian Li UNI HUB
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Lighting Type
- ARGB
- Dimensions
- 6 × 2 × 6 inches
View on Amazon: Lian Li UNI Fan SL V2 120mm ARGB Fan Affiliate link
The Lian Li UNI FAN SL V2 is a 120mm case fan with ARGB lighting. It features a thicker 28mm frame that improves airflow by 10% over the previous version. The design includes removable interlocking keys for better radiator clearance. You can connect two clusters of fans using an improved daisy chain system. It supports start/stop RPM for quieter operation when idle.
Pros
- 28mm frame thickness provides 10% improved airflow
- Removable interlocking keys for better radiator clearance
- Improved daisy chain design connects two fan clusters
- Start/stop fan RPM support for quieter operation
Cons
- Requires the provided UNI HUB for lighting control
- Single cable needed per cluster for lighting effects
- No mention of included mounting screws in data
Good fit if
- You want improved airflow over the V1 model
- You need better clearance for thick radiators
- You prefer daisy-chained fan setups
Skip if
- You do not have the UNI HUB
- You need fans smaller than 120mm
- You prefer non-ARGB lighting options
Verdict: Lian Li UNI FAN SL V2 120mm ARGB offers better airflow and radiator clearance for builders using the UNI HUB system. It suits users prioritizing airflow improvements and clean cable management over standalone fan control.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lian Li UNI Fan SL V2 120mm ARGB Fan |
|---|---|
| Fan Size | 120mm |
| Lighting Type | ARGB |
| Lighting | ARGB |
| Dimensions | 6 × 2 × 6 inches |
| Model | 12SLV21B.00 |
Frequently asked questions
Does this fan work without the Lian Li UNI Hub?
The Lian Li UNI Fan SL V2 is designed primarily for the UNI HUB ecosystem. You need the provided hub to manage lighting and connect daisy-chained clusters. While the fan accepts standard PWM signals, full feature integration requires the specific hub system for optimal cable management and control.
Is the 120mm version compatible with standard PC cases?
Yes, the 120mm form factor fits standard mounting holes in most PC cases and radiators. However, you must account for the 28mm frame thickness. This is slightly deeper than the traditional 25mm standard, so verify your case has enough clearance to avoid obstructing other components.
How does the airflow compare to the original SL V1?
The V2 model offers improved airflow over the previous version. The listing states the thicker 28mm frame provides 10% better airflow performance. This improvement makes it suitable for builders prioritizing air movement and radiator clearance while maintaining a clean aesthetic inside the chassis.
Can I connect multiple fans in a single chain?
Yes, the fan features an improved daisy chain design. This allows you to link two separate clusters of fans together using a single cable. You will need the new UNI HUB to manage these connections and control the ARGB lighting effects across the entire chain.
What type of lighting does this fan support?
This model supports ARGB lighting. You can sync these effects using the Lian Li UNI HUB system. The design ensures clean cable management by minimizing the number of visible cables required to power and control the lighting across your build.
Is this fan suitable for use with radiators?
Yes, it is well-suited for radiators. The 120mm size fits standard radiator mounting points. The 28mm thickness provides better clearance and airflow efficiency compared to thinner models, making it a practical choice for cooling loops where space and thermal performance are key considerations.
What is the model number for this specific fan?
The model number is 12SLV21B.00. This identifier helps you locate the correct replacement parts or verify compatibility with your existing Lian Li UNI HUB setup. It specifically denotes the 120mm ARGB PWM variant included in this review.