Lian Li or Thermaltake? Case Fans Compared in 2026
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You are looking at the lian li vs thermaltake case fan debate. Both brands offer black fans designed for PC cooling. They share a focus on reliability and airflow. The main difference lies in their physical dimensions and lighting features. Lian Li provides a 120mm model with customizable RGB effects and a controller. Thermaltake offers a larger 200mm fan with a sleeve bearing for longevity. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize aesthetic customization or raw air movement in a larger frame.
Key differences
| Aspect | Lian Li UNI Fan SL-Infinity 120mm Triple Pack | Thermaltake Pure 20 200mm Case Fan |
|---|---|---|
| Fan Size | 120mm | 200mm |
| Lighting | 40 LEDs per fan with infinity mirror design | LED version available |
| Bearing Type | not listed | Long Life Sleeve Bearing |
| Controller Support | Supports up to 16 fans with included controller | not listed |
| Weight | 15.9 ounces | 15 ounces |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Lian Li UNI Fan SL-Infinity 120mm Triple Pack if
- You want customizable RGB lighting with an infinity mirror effect.
- You need a controller to manage multiple fans in a single setup.
- You are building in a standard 120mm fan slot.
Choose Thermaltake Pure 20 200mm Case Fan if
- You prefer a larger 200mm fan for higher static pressure.
- You value a long-life sleeve bearing for reliability.
- You want a simpler fan without complex lighting controls.
Verdict: Choose the Lian Li option if you want detailed lighting customization and easy cable management for a standard 120mm build. Pick the Thermaltake fan if you need a larger 200mm profile with a focus on durability and high airflow. Both serve different physical requirements within your case.
Lian Li vs Thermaltake Fan Specs
Fan Size
The Lian Li UNI Fan SL-Infinity measures 120mm in diameter. This is a standard size for most PC cases and radiators. The Thermaltake Pure 20 Series is significantly larger at 200mm. You need a case that supports this larger dimension. The 200mm fan moves more air per rotation. However, the 120mm option fits in tighter spaces. Check your case specifications before choosing. The size difference dictates where you can install these fans. One is compact. The other is expansive. Your case slots determine which size you can actually use.
Lighting
Lian Li offers distinct lighting features with its SL-Infinity model. Each fan includes 40 LEDs. It uses an infinity mirror design visible from all angles. You can customize lighting modes or use preset effects. The Thermaltake Pure 20 Series focuses on airflow and silence. It mentions an LED version is available. However, the specific product listed does not detail LED specs. The Lian Li fan provides a clear, multi-layer visual effect. The Thermaltake fan prioritizes function over form. If you want visible RGB effects, Lian Li is the choice.
Cable Management
Lian Li includes an interlocking cable management system. This design simplifies cable routing for a cleaner setup. The triple pack comes with a controller supporting up to 16 fans. It also supports SM-type connecting devices. The Thermaltake Pure 20 Series does not list cable management features in its data. It focuses on anti-vibration mounting. The Lian Li approach helps you organize multiple fans efficiently. The included controller reduces clutter. The Thermaltake fan relies on standard wiring. You will manage cables differently with each option.
Bearing Type
Thermaltake specifies a long-life sleeve bearing. This bearing type offers better reliability and extends the fan lifespan. The Lian Li data does not state the bearing type. Sleeve bearings are common for quiet operation. The Lian Li fan uses a different mechanism. Without specific data, you cannot compare bearing longevity directly. The Thermaltake fan guarantees a known bearing type. This may matter for long-term durability. The Lian Li fan relies on other design features. You should check the manual for Lian Li bearing details.
Radiator Support
Lian Li enhances radiator compatibility with a removable keylock. The reversible cable module improves fit with radiator fittings. This is useful for water cooling builds. The Thermaltake Pure 20 Series does not mention radiator support. It focuses on chassis airflow. The Lian Li design adapts to tight radiator spaces. The Thermaltake fan is better for general case ventilation. If you use liquid cooling, Lian Li offers specific advantages. The reversible cable helps with fitting. The Thermaltake fan is simpler. Choose based on your cooling method.
Airflow Design
Thermaltake designs its fan blade to focus airflow. It aims to reduce noise while creating high air pressure. The 200mm size aids this performance. Lian Li emphasizes the infinity mirror and cable management. Its airflow specs are not detailed in the provided data. The Thermaltake fan is built for high air pressure. It balances silence and efficiency. The Lian Li fan may prioritize aesthetics. The Thermaltake Pure 20 is a workhorse. It moves air effectively. The Lian Li fan is versatile. You get different performance profiles.
Which fan fits your case best
Users with standard 120mm mounting spaces
The Lian Li UNI Fan SL-Infinity measures 120mm in diameter, fitting most standard PC cases and radiators. It includes a controller that supports up to 16 fans, simplifying cable management. The interlocking cable design keeps your setup organized. This size ensures compatibility with a wide range of chassis without requiring special modifications or larger mounting areas.
Builders needing high static pressure
The Thermaltake Pure 20 Series is 200mm wide and 30mm thick. This thickness provides high air pressure and airflow, ideal for dense radiators or filters. The long life sleeve bearing offers better reliability and extends the lifespan of the fan. Its design focuses airflow to reduce noise while maintaining strong cooling performance for demanding thermal loads.
Enthusiasts wanting customizable lighting effects
This Lian Li fan features an infinity mirror design with 40 LEDs per fan, visible from any angle. You can customize lighting modes on the blades and frame inner edges. The included controller allows you to choose from pre-set combined lighting effects. This aesthetic flexibility makes it suitable for users who prioritize visual customization alongside cooling performance.
The products compared
Lian Li UNI Fan SL-Infinity 120mm Triple Pack
Best for: RGB enthusiasts seeking expandable fan setups
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Dimensions
- 10 × 2 × 2.7 inches
- Weight
- 15.9 ounces
View on Amazon: Lian Li UNI Fan SL-Infinity 120mm Triple Pack Affiliate link
This Lian Li fan pack includes three 120mm units with an infinity mirror design and 40 LEDs per fan. The triple pack comes with a controller supporting up to 16 fans. Interlocking cables simplify management. The removable keylock and reversible cable module improve radiator compatibility. You get customizable lighting effects for the blades and frame. This setup suits builders who want clean aesthetics and expandable RGB control.
Pros
- Infinity mirror design with 40 LEDs per fan
- Controller supports up to 16 fans
- Interlocking cable management for clean setups
- Removable keylock and reversible cable module
Cons
- Only includes 120mm size options
- No mention of remote control included
- Requires controller for lighting customization
Good fit if
- You want customizable RGB lighting effects
- You need expandable fan support up to 16 units
- You prioritize clean cable management with interlocking cables
Skip if
- You prefer 140mm fans for higher airflow
- You want a single fan without a controller
- You need a remote control for lighting
Verdict: Lian Li SL-Infinity 120mm Triple Pack offers excellent RGB customization and expandability for builders who value aesthetics and clean cable management. It is ideal for those planning to expand their fan setup later.
Thermaltake Pure 20 200mm Case Fan
Best for: PC cases with dedicated 200mm fan brackets
- Fan Size
- 200mm
- Bearing Type
- Long Life Sleeve Bearing
- Dimensions
- 11.4 × 10 × 12.6 inches
- Weight
- 15 ounces
View on Amazon: Thermaltake Pure 20 200mm Case Fan Affiliate link
This 200mm case fan from Thermaltake features a 30mm thick frame designed to move high airflow through compatible chassis mounts. It uses a long life sleeve bearing and a shaved frame to fit large intake or exhaust cutouts. If you own a PC case with 200mm mounts and need a single non-LED replacement fan, this model suits your setup.
Pros
- Large 200mm diameter with 30mm thickness for high airflow
- Shaved frame profile facilitates installation in compatible chassis
- Equipped with anti-vibration mounting
- Long life sleeve bearing design
Cons
- 30mm thickness exceeds the standard 25mm fan depth
- Uses a sleeve bearing rather than a fluid dynamic bearing
- Base black version contains no LED lighting
Good fit if
- You have a chassis equipped with dedicated 200mm mounting brackets.
- You want a single non-illuminated cooling fan with a 30mm depth profile.
Skip if
- You need standard 120mm or 140mm mounting points.
- You want integrated RGB or LED illumination on your fan.
Verdict: Thermaltake Pure 20 Series 200mm Fan delivers focused intake or exhaust airflow for enclosures built to house oversized cooling hardware. Its 30mm depth and shaved frame suit builders replacing or filling dedicated 200mm fan slots without adding lighting.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lian Li UNI Fan SL-Infinity 120mm Triple Pack | Thermaltake Pure 20 200mm Case Fan |
|---|---|---|
| Fan Size | 120mm | 200mm |
| Bearing Type | not stated | Long Life Sleeve Bearing |
| Dimensions | 10 × 2 × 2.7 inches | 11.4 × 10 × 12.6 inches |
| Weight | 15.9 ounces | 15 ounces |
| Size | 120mm | 200mm |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | UF-SLIN120-3B | CL-F015-PL20BL-A |
Frequently asked questions
Which fan is better for standard PC cases?
The Lian Li UNI Fan SL-Infinity is the better choice for most builders. It measures 120mm, which fits standard mounting spaces in the majority of PC cases. The Thermaltake Pure 20 is 200mm, requiring a case specifically designed to accommodate its larger dimensions. You should verify your case supports 120mm slots before choosing the Lian Li option.
Does the Lian Li fan include lighting?
Yes, the Lian Li UNI Fan SL-Infinity features RGB lighting. It is designed for enthusiasts who want customizable aesthetics and a clean look. The Thermaltake Pure 20 does not include lighting effects. It focuses purely on airflow performance. If you want visible illumination in your build, the Lian Li model is the only option with this feature.
Can I expand my fan setup easily?
The Lian Li fan supports easy expansion. It includes a controller that can manage up to 16 fans, which simplifies cable management for larger builds. The Thermaltake fan is a standalone unit without mentioned expansion capabilities. If you plan to add more fans later, the Lian Li system offers a more scalable solution for your airflow needs.
Which fan provides the highest airflow?
The Thermaltake Pure 20 is designed for high airflow in larger spaces. Its 200mm size allows it to move more air in compatible cases. The Lian Li fan prioritizes aesthetics and standard cooling. It is suitable for typical airflow requirements in 120mm slots. You should choose the Thermaltake if your case has 200mm mounts and you need maximum air movement.
What are the physical dimensions of these fans?
The Lian Li fan is 120mm in diameter. The Thermaltake fan is 200mm in diameter. The Lian Li package weighs 15.9 ounces and includes a controller. The Thermaltake fan weighs 15 ounces. These size differences dictate which cases you can use. You must match the fan diameter to your case mounting specifications for proper installation.
Is cable management difficult with these fans?
The Lian Li fan simplifies cable management through its included controller. This controller handles up to 16 fans, reducing clutter in your case. The Thermaltake fan does not mention a controller. You may need to manage cables individually for the Thermaltake unit. If you want a cleaner interior, the Lian Li system offers a more organized approach to wiring.