Thermalright TL-9015 CPU Fan Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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If you are shopping for thermalright tl 9015 CPU fan alternatives, you likely want specific dimensions or cooling traits for your setup. The Thermalright TL-9015 excels in tight spaces with its slim 15mm thickness and 92mm frame. It delivers up to 42.58 CFM of airflow and 1.33 mm H2O static pressure at 2700 RPM, while keeping noise at or below 22.4 dBA. Its 4-pin PWM control, liquid bearing, and vibration damping pads provide balanced cooling on low-profile coolers.
Still, you might need different specifications for your chassis. You may have clearance for a larger 120mm fan to increase overall airflow, or you might need a smaller 80mm frame for an ultra-compact enclosure. You might also prefer a standard 25mm depth for higher static pressure, integrated ARGB lighting, or a different brand like ASUS. These 6 alternatives were chosen because their specs overlap with the original, offering comparable slim profiles, 4-pin PWM connectors, and reliable heatsink support.
Our top pick: Thermalright 92mm Slim PWM Fan.
Comparing the Thermalright TL-9015 Alternatives
Thermalright 120mm Slim ARGB Fan
The Thermalright TL-C12015W-S steps up from the 92mm TL-9015 to a larger 120mm frame while retaining the same 15mm slim profile. With the larger diameter, you get higher maximum airflow at 52 CFM compared to 42.58 CFM on the TL-9015. It also adds ARGB lighting, which the grey TL-9015 lacks. In exchange, you need a chassis or cooler mount that clears 4.72-inch dimensions rather than 3.62 inches. The noise ceiling is also slightly higher at 24.1 dBA versus 22.4 dBA, and weight increases to 3.53 ounces. You should pick this model if your compact build fits 120mm fans and you want extra airflow and integrated lighting.
Thermalright 80mm PWM Case Fan
The Thermalright TL-B8W shrinks to an 80mm frame with a 3.15-inch width, making it smaller than the 92mm TL-9015. It features a standard 25mm depth (0.98 inches) rather than the 15mm slim profile of the TL-9015. This thicker design delivers 2.7mm H2O of static pressure, more than double the 1.33mm H2O of the TL-9015, and utilizes an S-FDB V2 bearing. However, you give up the low-profile clearance of the 15mm design and cannot mount it to 92mm brackets. Choose the TL-B8W if you have 80mm mounting holes and enough vertical room for a standard-depth fan that needs high static pressure for dense heatsinks.
Thermalright 80mm Slim PWM Fan
The Thermalright TL-8015 targets even tighter builds by moving to an 80mm fan size instead of the 92mm frame on the TL-9015. This allows you to fit cooling into enclosures where 92mm mounting brackets or cooler clips will not fit. Like the TL-9015, it operates via a 4-pin PWM connector for motherboard speed regulation and is tailored for low-clearance cooling. However, its smaller 80mm footprint covers less surface area than the 92mm TL-9015, and the unit weighs more at 3.53 ounces compared to 1.6 ounces. Pick the TL-8015 if your small-form-factor case or CPU heatsink only accommodates 80mm mounting patterns.
Thermalright 80mm PWM Cooling Fan
The Thermalright TL-B8 provides an 80mm square profile (3.15 inches by 3.15 inches), differing from the larger 92mm frame of the TL-9015. It uses a standard 25mm thickness (0.98 inches), whereas the TL-9015 measures just 15mm (0.59 inches) thick. That extra depth allows it to deliver steady static pressure for compact heatsinks, but it sacrifices the ultra-low clearance that makes the TL-9015 fit under tight small-form-factor brackets. It is also heavier at 3.53 ounces versus 1.6 ounces. You should select the TL-B8 if your cooler requires an 80mm fan and your chassis has enough depth to clear a full 25mm frame.
ASUS ROG Strix XF120 120mm PWM Fan 2-Pack
The ASUS ROG Strix XF120 package shifts from a single 92mm slim fan to two standard 120mm fans. Each fan uses Magnetic Levitation (MagLev) bearings and supports zero-RPM operation for silent running at low loads, whereas the TL-9015 uses a liquid bearing rated to 2700 RPM. The trade-off is size: the XF120 requires 4.7 inches of mounting width and 0.9 inches of thickness, compared to the compact 3.62-inch width and 0.59-inch profile of the TL-9015. Pick the ROG Strix XF120 set if your PC case or radiator supports 120mm mounts, clears standard fan thickness, and you need dual fans.
Thermalright 120mm Slim PWM Fan
The Thermalright TL-C12015B D6 shares the slim 15mm thickness of the TL-9015, but it expands to a 120mm square frame measuring 4.72 inches. This larger span enables 59 CFM of airflow, a clear improvement over the 42.58 CFM generated by the 92mm TL-9015. Both models connect through 4-pin PWM motherboard headers, but the TL-C12015B D6 utilizes an S-FDB bearing rather than a liquid bearing. The trade-off is clearance: it will not mount to 92mm cooler brackets or cases lacking 120mm spacing. You should choose this model if your compact build allows 120mm mounts and needs maximum airflow in a 15mm thickness.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Thermalright 92mm Slim PWM Fan
Best for: low-profile CPU coolers and compact cases
- Fan Size
- 92mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 2700RPM
- Max Airflow
- 42.58CFM
- Static Pressure
- 1.33mm H2O
- Noise Level
- ≤22.4dBA
- Connector Type
- 4-pin PWM
The Thermalright 92mm Slim PWM Fan is a low-profile cooling fan designed for tight spaces. Measuring 15mm thick, it delivers up to 42.58 CFM of airflow at speeds up to 2,700 RPM while keeping noise at or below 22.4 dBA. It includes four vibration damping pads and a liquid bearing. This design suits you if you need compact CPU cooling or slim case ventilation with automatic 4-pin PWM speed control.
Pros
- Slim 15mm thickness fits tight clearances
- Airflow reaches up to 42.58 CFM at 2,700 RPM
- Rated noise level remains at or below 22.4 dBA
- Equipped with a liquid bearing and vibration damping pads
Cons
- Static pressure is limited to 1.33mm H2O
- No integrated LED or ARGB lighting
Good fit if
- You need a 15mm thin fan to clear tight heatsinks or small cases.
- You want automatic speed adjustment through a standard 4-pin PWM connector.
- You want low noise output rated at or under 22.4 dBA.
Skip if
- You need higher static pressure than 1.33mm H2O for dense radiators.
- You want built-in lighting features in your fan.
Verdict: Thermalright 92mm Slim PWM Fan delivers 42.58 CFM airflow and quiet 22.4 dBA operation in a space-saving 15mm profile. It is a practical match for small form factor systems and low-profile CPU coolers.
Thermalright 120mm Slim ARGB Fan
Best for: Slim 120mm mounts requiring ARGB lighting
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 1500RPM
- Max Airflow
- 52CFM
- Static Pressure
- 1.24mm H2O
- Noise Level
- ≤24.1dBA
- Connector Type
- 4-pin PWM
This is a low-profile cooling fan designed for setups needing a larger 120mm footprint without standard 25mm thickness. Measuring 15mm deep, it pushes up to 52 CFM of airflow at 1500 RPM with noise rated at or below 24.1 dBA. It suits you if your CPU cooler or case accommodates a 120mm bracket and you want ARGB illumination.
Pros
- Slim 15mm depth fits tight clearance spaces
- Maximum airflow reaches 52 CFM at 1500 RPM
- ARGB lighting supports up to 17 modes
- Four vibration damping pads minimize operating noise
Cons
- Static pressure tops out at 1.24mm H2O
- 120mm frame does not fit standard 92mm mounts
- Maximum rotational speed is limited to 1500 RPM
Good fit if
- You have space for a 120mm fan bracket but only 15mm of clearance depth.
- You want motherboard-synchronized ARGB lighting across the fan blades.
- You require 4-pin PWM automatic speed control for balanced acoustic output.
Skip if
- You need a fan that mounts directly onto 92mm or 80mm heatsinks.
- You require high static pressure exceeding 1.24mm H2O for dense cooling fins.
Verdict: Thermalright 120mm Slim ARGB Fan delivers a 15mm low-profile build with 52 CFM airflow for cases accepting 120mm brackets. It pairs 4-pin PWM motherboard control with customizable ARGB illumination while keeping noise at or below 24.1 dBA.
Thermalright 80mm PWM Case Fan
Best for: compact heatsinks needing high static pressure
- Fan Size
- 80mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 2200RPM
- Max Airflow
- 34CFM
- Static Pressure
- 2.7mm H2O
- Noise Level
- ≤24dBA
- Connector Type
- 4pin pwm
This is an 80mm cooling fan built with a standard 25mm thickness, making it a compact alternative to 92mm or 120mm units. It features a 4-pin PWM connector, delivers up to 2200 RPM, and produces 2.7mm H2O of static pressure alongside 34 CFM maximum airflow. With noise rated at 24 dBA or lower, it suits you if you need focused pressure for small heatsinks or compact chassis mounts.
Pros
- Static pressure reaches up to 2.7mm H2O
- S-FDB V2 bearing provides stability and durability
- Four vibration damping pads reduce operational noise
- Wide PWM speed control up to 2200 RPM
Cons
- Full 25mm thickness does not fit slim 15mm slots
- Maximum airflow tops out at 34 CFM
- 80mm frame does not fit 92mm fan mounts
Good fit if
- You need high static pressure in an 80mm fan mount.
- You want automatic motherboard fan control via 4-pin PWM.
- You have at least 25mm of mounting depth clearance.
Skip if
- You require a slim 15mm-thick fan for low-profile builds.
- You need native 92mm fan bracket compatibility.
- You want higher overall airflow than 34 CFM.
Verdict: Thermalright 80mm PWM CPU Fan provides strong 2.7mm H2O static pressure and S-FDB V2 durability for compact coolers that accommodate standard 25mm-thick fans.
Thermalright 80mm Slim PWM Fan
Best for: ultra-compact small-form-factor builds
- Fan Size
- 80mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 2200 RPM
- Max Airflow
- 28.4 CFM
- Static Pressure
- 1.25 mmH2O
- Noise Level
- ≤23.3 dBA
- Connector Type
- 4-pin PWM
This 80mm cooling fan features a slim 15mm thickness designed for tight spaces where standard fans do not fit. It runs up to 2200 RPM via a 4-pin PWM header, generating up to 28.4 CFM airflow and 1.25 mmH2O static pressure at noise levels up to 23.3 dBA. It suits you if you need a compact cooling fan for small-form-factor enclosures or low-clearance CPU heatsinks.
Pros
- Slim 15mm thickness fits tight clearances
- S-FDB V2 bearing for reduced blade shake
- Four integrated vibration damping pads
- PWM motherboard speed control up to 2200 RPM
Cons
- Airflow output is limited to 28.4 CFM
- Static pressure tops out at 1.25 mmH2O
Good fit if
- You need an 80mm fan with a slim 15mm profile.
- You want automated speed adjustments via a 4-pin PWM header.
Skip if
- You have clearance for standard 92mm or 25mm-thick fans.
- You require airflow rates higher than 28.4 CFM.
Verdict: Thermalright 80mm Slim PWM Fan delivers reliable cooling in a 15mm footprint for builds that cannot clear standard-depth fans.
Thermalright 80mm PWM Cooling Fan
Best for: compact builds with standard 25mm clearance
- Fan Size
- 80mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 2200 RPM
- Max Airflow
- 34 CFM
- Static Pressure
- 2.7 mmH2O
- Noise Level
- ≤24 dBA
- Connector Type
- 4-pin PWM
You get a standard 25mm-thick 80mm cooling fan designed for tighter chassis mounts and heatsinks. Running up to 2200 RPM via a 4-pin PWM header, it delivers 34 CFM of airflow and 2.7 mmH2O of static pressure at noise levels up to 24 dBA. It suits you if you need stronger static pressure than slim fans provide and have clearance for full 25mm depth.
Pros
- Static pressure reaches 2.7 mmH2O for heatsink resistance
- Rated noise ceiling of 24 dBA at 2200 RPM
- S-FDB V2 bearing with integrated corner vibration pads
- Automatic 4-pin PWM motherboard speed control
Cons
- Full 25mm thickness does not fit ultra-slim 15mm spaces
- Smaller 80mm frame caps maximum airflow at 34 CFM
Good fit if
- You have clearance for a standard 25mm-thick 80mm fan mount
- You need focused static pressure to push air through heatsink fins
- You prefer automatic temperature control via a 4-pin PWM header
Skip if
- You need a low-profile 15mm fan for a compact SFF enclosure
- You require larger 92mm or 120mm mounting dimensions
Verdict: Thermalright 80mm PWM Quiet Fan provides dependable static pressure in a compact footprint when your setup allows standard 25mm depth. It delivers controlled, low-noise airflow for small enclosures and compact heatsinks.
ASUS ROG Strix XF120 120mm PWM Fan 2-Pack
Best for: full-size radiator cooling with zero-RPM control
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 1800 RPM
- Noise Level
- 22.5 dB(A)
- Connector Type
- 4-pin PWM
- Bearing Type
- MagLev
- Compatible Device
- Radiator, CPU Cooler
The ASUS ROG Strix XF120 is a 120mm cooling fan built for radiators and PC cases. If you need larger airflow coverage than slim 92mm fans offer, this model provides a 250 to 1800 RPM operating range, spinning down completely at zero percent PWM utilization. Its magnetic-levitation bearing supports a 400,000-hour lifespan with a rated 22.5 dB(A) acoustic profile, suiting your build if you have standard 120mm mounts.
Pros
- Magnetic-levitation bearing rated for a 400,000-hour life span
- Operating speed range of 250 to 1800 RPM with 0% PWM shutoff
- Maximum rated noise level of 22.5 dB(A)
- Includes anti-vibration pads and mounts
- Covered by a 5-year warranty
Cons
- Larger 120mm frame does not fit 80mm or 92mm mounts
- 0.9-inch profile is thicker than standard 15mm slim fans
- Does not include RGB lighting
Good fit if
- You have chassis clearance for a standard 120mm fan mount.
- You want a zero-RPM mode that stops spinning at 0% PWM signal.
- You require an extended 400,000-hour bearing life span for continuous operation.
Skip if
- You need a 92mm or 80mm fan for a compact CPU cooler.
- You want built-in ARGB illumination on the fan blades.
Verdict: ASUS ROG Strix XF120 120mm PWM Fan delivers whisper-quiet cooling and durable MagLev bearings for full-size radiator or case mounts. It steps beyond compact 92mm alternatives when your chassis provides clearance for a standard 120mm frame.
Thermalright 120mm Slim PWM Fan
Best for: low-profile cooling in compact PC builds
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 1800 RPM
- Max Airflow
- 59 CFM
- Static Pressure
- 1.36 mmH2O
- Noise Level
- 26.1 dBA
- Connector Type
- 4-pin PWM
The Thermalright 120mm Slim PWM Fan is a 15mm-thick cooling option designed for tight clearances where standard 25mm fans do not fit. It delivers up to 59 CFM of airflow and 1.36 mmH2O static pressure at 1800 RPM. If you need to replace a smaller 92mm unit with a larger, low-profile alternative for your heatsink or compact PC chassis, this model gives you 4-pin PWM speed control with an S-FDB bearing.
Pros
- Slim 15mm thickness fits compact cases and tight CPU cooler clearances
- Delivers up to 59 CFM of airflow at 1800 RPM
- S-FDB bearing for smooth operation with built-in vibration damping pads
- 4-pin PWM connection allows automated motherboard speed control
Cons
- Lower static pressure at 1.36 mmH2O than standard 25mm-thick fans
- 120mm mounting footprint requires more clearance than native 92mm fans
- No integrated lighting or ARGB support
Good fit if
- You need a slim 15mm profile to clear tall memory modules or tight case panels
- You have clearance for a 120mm frame and want more airflow than smaller fans provide
- You prefer automated fan speed control via a standard 4-pin PWM header
Skip if
- You have a compact heatsink that strictly requires native 92mm mounting brackets
- You need high static pressure designed specifically for dense water-cooling radiators
- You want built-in ARGB lighting effects for your system setup
Verdict: Thermalright 120mm Slim PWM Fan delivers capable 59 CFM airflow in a 15mm-thick profile, making it a great low-profile cooling option when you have space for 120mm mounts. Its S-FDB bearing and PWM control ensure balanced, automated operation for slim heatsinks and compact enclosures.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermalright 92mm Slim PWM Fan | Thermalright 120mm Slim ARGB Fan | Thermalright 80mm PWM Case Fan | Thermalright 80mm Slim PWM Fan | Thermalright 80mm PWM Cooling Fan | ASUS ROG Strix XF120 120mm PWM Fan 2-Pack | Thermalright 120mm Slim PWM Fan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fan Size | 92mm | 120mm | 80mm | 80mm | 80mm | 120mm | 120mm |
| Max Fan Speed | 2700RPM | 1500RPM | 2200RPM | 2200 RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Max Airflow | 42.58CFM | 52CFM | 34CFM | 28.4 CFM | 34 CFM | not specified | 59 CFM |
| Static Pressure | 1.33mm H2O | 1.24mm H2O | 2.7mm H2O | 1.25 mmH2O | 2.7 mmH2O | not specified | 1.36 mmH2O |
| Noise Level | ≤22.4dBA | ≤24.1dBA | ≤24dBA | ≤23.3 dBA | ≤24 dBA | 22.5 dB(A) | 26.1 dBA |
| Connector Type | 4-pin PWM | 4-pin PWM | 4pin pwm | 4-pin PWM | 4-pin PWM | 4-pin PWM | 4-pin PWM |
| Bearing Type | Liquid | not specified | S-FDB V2 | S-FDB V2 | S-FDB V2 | MagLev | S-FDB |
| Lighting Type | not specified | ARGB | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Lighting | not specified | ARGB | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Compatible Device | CPU Cooler | CPU Cooler | CPU Cooler | CPU Cooler | CPU Cooler | Radiator, CPU Cooler | CPU Cooler |
| Dimensions | 3.62 × 0.59 × 3.62 inches | 0.59 × 4.72 × 4.72 inches | 3.15 × 0.98 × 3.15 inches | 3.15 × 0.98 × 3.14 inches | 0.98 × 3.15 × 3.15 inches | 4.7 × 4.7 × 0.9 inches | 4.72 × 4.72 × 4.72 inches |
| Weight | 1.6 ounces | 3.53 ounces | not specified | 3.53 ounces | 3.53 ounces | 14.1 ounces | not specified |
| Size | 92x92x15mm | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 120mm (2 Pack) | not specified |
| Color | Grey | not specified | TL-B9W | not specified | not specified | ROG Strix XF120/XF120A1/BK// | not specified |
| Model | TL-9015 | TL-C12015W-S | TL-B8W | TL-8015 | TL-B8 | 90DA0010-B09000 | TL-C12015B D6 |
If you want larger cooling hardware, the best thermalright CPU coolers with 120mm Fan provide standard clearance profiles.
Frequently asked questions
What makes a 120mm slim fan a viable alternative to the Thermalright TL-9015?
A 120mm slim fan works as an alternative if your case or cooler bracket supports 120mm mount spacing. Both options maintain a low 15mm profile, but 120mm units like the TL-C12015B D6 move up to 59 CFM of air. You gain higher airflow while keeping the same slim clearance required in compact, small-form-factor builds.
Can you replace the Thermalright TL-9015 with an 80mm fan?
You can use an 80mm fan if your cooler bracket accommodates 80mm mounting holes. Models like the Thermalright TL-8015 provide a 15mm slim footprint for ultra-compact builds with tight clearances. If your chassis allows standard 25mm thickness, options like the TL-B8 or TL-B8W deliver focused static pressure using 4-pin PWM headers for regulated cooling.
Which slim alternative provides ARGB lighting for a low-profile CPU cooler?
The Thermalright TL-C12015W-S provides ARGB lighting in a 15mm slim profile. It fits systems accepting 120mm fan brackets, pairing customizable illumination with 52 CFM airflow and 4-pin PWM motherboard control. Operational noise stays at or below 24.1 dBA, giving you visual customization without demanding extra vertical clearance inside small computer cases.
How does fan thickness affect your choice when replacing the TL-9015?
Fan thickness determines whether your CPU cooler clears nearby memory modules and side panels. The TL-9015 measures 15mm thick, fitting spaces where standard 25mm fans collide with components. If your build has extra vertical depth, standard 25mm models like the TL-B8W offer higher static pressure, measuring 2.7mm H2O, while slim models preserve clearance in cramped enclosures.
When should you choose a full-size fan like the ASUS ROG Strix XF120 instead?
You should choose the ASUS ROG Strix XF120 if your enclosure has clearance for a standard 120mm frame and standard thickness. This model features MagLev bearings, 4-pin PWM connectivity, zero-RPM control, and dual radiator or CPU cooler compatibility. It suits setups where space is not restricted to the compact 92mm or 15mm slim dimensions of the TL-9015.
Do all Thermalright TL-9015 alternatives use 4-pin PWM connectors?
Yes, the compared alternatives use standard 4-pin PWM connectors for motherboard control. Whether you select the slim 120mm TL-C12015B D6, the compact 80mm TL-B8, or the ASUS ROG Strix XF120, each model allows automated speed regulation through your motherboard. This setup lets your system adjust fan speed dynamically based on CPU temperature demands during operation.
How do bearing types differ among these compact CPU cooling fans?
Bearing designs vary across these fans to support durability and smooth rotation. Models like the Thermalright TL-B8W and TL-C12015B D6 feature S-FDB or S-FDB V2 bearings for stable operation. In contrast, the larger ASUS ROG Strix XF120 employs MagLev bearings for extended longevity. Selecting the right bearing depends on your mounting orientation and expected operational environment.