Thermalright 92mm Slim PWM Fan vs Thermalright 120mm PWM Case Fan: Spec Comparison
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
This guide compares the thermalright tl 9015 CPU fan vs tl c12c CPU fan 120mm. Both are 4-pin PWM cooling solutions from Thermalright designed for cases and CPU coolers. They share vibration damping pads and automatic speed control based on motherboard temperature. The main difference lies in their physical dimensions and airflow capacity. You need to decide between a slim 92mm unit and a standard 120mm model based on your specific cooling requirements.
Key differences
| Aspect | Thermalright 92mm Slim PWM Fan | Thermalright 120mm PWM Case Fan |
|---|---|---|
| Fan Size | 92mm | 120mm |
| Dimensions | 92x92x15mm | 120x120x25mm |
| Max Airflow | 42.58 CFM | 66.17 CFM |
| Max Static Pressure | 1.33 mm H2O | 1.53 mm H2O |
| Max Fan Speed | 2700 RPM | 1550 RPM |
| Bearing Type | Liquid | S-FDB |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Thermalright 92mm Slim PWM Fan if
- You need an ultra-thin 15mm fan to fit under low-profile CPU coolers.
- You prefer a fan that spins faster to achieve higher RPMs.
Choose Thermalright 120mm PWM Case Fan if
- You require higher static pressure for dense radiator fins.
- You want greater air volume for general case airflow.
Verdict: The TL-9015 suits builds with height restrictions or specific low-profile cooler compatibility needs. The TL-C12C is better for standard cases where higher airflow and static pressure are priorities. Choose based on your physical space constraints and cooling density requirements.
Slim Fan vs Standard Size Comparison
Fan Dimensions
The Thermalright TL-9015 measures 92 by 92 by 15 mm. This ultra-thin profile makes it ideal for tight spaces or downward-facing CPU coolers where height is limited. The Thermalright TL-C12C is larger at 120 by 120 by 25 mm. You need more clearance for this standard size. The TL-9015 fits where the TL-C12C cannot. If your case or cooler has strict height restrictions, the slim design of the TL-9015 is the practical choice. The TL-C12C requires a standard 120 mm mounting area.
Airflow Performance
Airflow determines how much cool air moves through your system. The TL-9015 delivers a maximum of 42.58 CFM. The TL-C12C moves significantly more air at 66.17 CFM. This is a substantial difference in volume. If you prioritize moving large amounts of air for general case ventilation or high-heat dissipation, the TL-C12C is superior. The larger blades and motor allow for higher throughput. The TL-9015 focuses on efficiency in a smaller package rather than raw volume.
Static Pressure
Static pressure measures how well a fan pushes air through dense obstacles like heatsink fins or radiator meshes. The TL-9015 generates 1.33 mm H2O of static pressure. The TL-C12C generates 1.53 mm H2O. The TL-C12C has the higher rating. This means it can push air more effectively through restricted airflow paths. If you are using the fan on a thick CPU cooler or a dense radiator, the TL-C12C will likely perform better. The TL-9015 is adequate but trails in this specific metric.
Maximum Speed
Fan speed affects both cooling power and noise. The TL-9015 spins up to 2700 RPM. The TL-C12C reaches a maximum of 1550 RPM. The TL-9015 spins much faster. This higher speed allows it to generate airflow in a smaller diameter. However, higher RPMs often correlate with higher noise levels, though the TL-9015 claims low noise operation. The TL-C12C moves more air at a lower rotational speed. You choose based on whether you prefer high-RPM compact fans or lower-RPM large fans.
Noise Levels
Both fans aim for quiet operation. The TL-9015 is rated at 22.4 dBA maximum. The TL-C12C is rated at 25.6 dBA maximum. The TL-9015 has the lower decibel rating on paper. This suggests it may be quieter at its peak performance. The TL-C12C moves more air but at a higher noise level. If your priority is minimal acoustic output, the TL-9015 has the edge. The difference is measurable, with the slim fan being the quieter option in direct specification comparison.
Bearing Technology
Bearings affect longevity and smooth operation. The TL-9015 uses a liquid bearing. The TL-C12C uses an S-FDB bearing. S-FDB stands for Sleeve Fluid Dynamic Bearing. Both are designed to reduce friction and noise while extending service life. The data lists them as different technologies. The S-FDB in the TL-C12C is noted for preventing blade shaking. The liquid bearing in the TL-9015 focuses on low noise. Both are reliable choices for long-term use, with the TL-C12C offering a specific vibration reduction feature.
Which thermalright fan suits your build
Builder with tight clearance or low-profile cooler
The TL-9015 measures 92 by 92 by 15 mm, fitting where standard fans cannot. Its 15 mm thickness allows installation in restricted vertical spaces. You get 42.58 CFM airflow and 1.33 mm H2O static pressure. The liquid bearing keeps noise at 22.4 dBA. This slim design prioritizes physical compatibility without sacrificing essential cooling performance for small form factor cases.
User needing maximum airflow for case ventilation
The TL-C12C delivers 66.17 CFM, significantly higher than the 92mm model. Its 120 mm size moves more air per rotation. You get 1.53 mm H2O static pressure for better radiator performance. The S-FDB bearing supports 1550 RPM with 25.6 dBA noise. This standard 25 mm thickness offers superior volume displacement for general case cooling and exhaust needs.
Builder prioritizing quiet operation in small spaces
The TL-9015 operates at 22.4 dBA, quieter than the 120mm option. Its 2700 RPM speed compensates for the smaller 92 mm blade area. The liquid bearing ensures smooth rotation with minimal friction noise. You gain 42.58 CFM in a 15 mm profile. This combination provides effective cooling for tight spaces while maintaining a lower acoustic footprint than larger, slower-spinning alternatives.
The products compared
Thermalright 92mm Slim PWM Fan
Best for: tight spaces and 92mm slots
- 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
View on Amazon: Thermalright 92mm Slim PWM Fan Affiliate link
The Thermalright TL-9015 is a 92mm case or CPU cooler fan with a slim 15mm profile. It reaches 2700 RPM for 42.58 CFM airflow and 1.33 mm H2O static pressure. The 4-pin PWM connector allows motherboard speed control. Its liquid bearing and vibration pads keep noise under 22.4 dBA. This compact fan suits tight spaces or downward coolers.
Pros
- Slim 15mm thickness fits tight spaces
- 4-pin PWM for automatic speed control
- Airflow up to 42.58 CFM
- Quiet operation under 22.4 dBA
Cons
- 92mm size is smaller than standard 120mm fans
- Lower static pressure than larger fans
- Single fan sold individually
Good fit if
- You need a fan under 20mm thick
- You are upgrading a 92mm slot
- You want quiet CPU cooling
Skip if
- You require 120mm or 140mm airflow
- You need high static pressure for dense radiators
- You prefer larger fans for lower noise
Verdict: Thermalright 92mm Slim 15mm Fan delivers efficient cooling in tight spaces. It fits builders who need thin fans for specific CPU coolers or compact cases.
Thermalright 120mm PWM Case Fan
Best for: Quiet case ventilation and standard CPU cooling
- Fan Size
- 120mm
- Max Fan Speed
- 1550RPM
- Max Airflow
- 66.17CFM
- Static Pressure
- 1.53mm H2O
- Noise Level
- ≤ 25.6dBA
- Connector Type
- 4pin PWM
View on Amazon: Thermalright 120mm PWM Case Fan Affiliate link
The Thermalright TL-C12C is a 120mm PWM fan designed for case and CPU cooler cooling. It reaches a maximum speed of 1550RPM, delivering 66.17 CFM of airflow and 1.53 mm H2O of static pressure. The unit uses S-FDB bearings and includes silicone corner pads to reduce vibration. This fan suits builders who need reliable airflow with low noise levels for their PC chassis or radiators.
Pros
- 120mm size fits standard case and radiator mounts
- 4-pin PWM connector allows automatic speed control
- S-FDB bearing design minimizes blade shaking
- Silicone corner pads reduce vibration and noise
- 66.17 CFM airflow for effective heat removal
Cons
- Lower static pressure compared to high-performance radiator fans
- No address lighting or RGB features included
- Single fan requires multiple units for full case coverage
Good fit if
- You need a quiet fan for general case ventilation
- You are building a system with standard 120mm mounts
- You prioritize low noise over maximum static pressure
Skip if
- You require RGB lighting for aesthetic builds
- You need high static pressure for dense radiators
- You are using a 92mm fan slot exclusively
Verdict: The Thermalright TL-C12C 120mm PWM Fan offers solid airflow and low noise for standard cases. It is a practical option for builders who value silence and reliable cooling over aesthetic lighting or extreme static pressure.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermalright 92mm Slim PWM Fan | Thermalright 120mm PWM Case Fan |
|---|---|---|
| Fan Size | 92mm | 120mm |
| Max Fan Speed | 2700RPM | 1550RPM |
| Max Airflow | 42.58CFM | 66.17CFM |
| Static Pressure | 1.33mm H2O | 1.53mm H2O |
| Noise Level | ≤22.4dBA | ≤ 25.6dBA |
| Connector Type | 4-pin PWM | 4pin PWM |
| Bearing Type | Liquid | S-FDB |
| Compatible Device | CPU Cooler | not stated |
| Dimensions | 3.62 × 0.59 × 3.62 inches | 4.72 × 0.98 × 4.72 inches |
| Weight | 1.6 ounces | 3.53 ounces |
| Size | 92x92x15mm | not stated |
| Color | Grey | not stated |
| Model | TL-9015 | TL-C12C |
Frequently asked questions
Can the Thermalright 92mm Slim PWM Fan replace a standard 120mm fan in a case?
No, the dimensions do not match. The TL-9015 measures 92 by 92 by 15 mm, while the TL-C12C is 120 by 120 by 25 mm. You cannot install the 92mm fan in a 120mm slot. The slim fan is designed for tight spaces or specific CPU coolers where height is limited.
Do both fans use the same connector type?
Yes, both fans use a 4-pin connector. This allows for PWM speed control based on motherboard temperature readings. You can connect either fan to a standard 4-pin header on your motherboard to manage airflow automatically.
Which fan is lighter for a build?
The Thermalright 92mm Slim PWM Fan is lighter. It weighs 1.6 ounces. The 120mm TL-C12C weighs 3.53 ounces. The difference is nearly two ounces. This matters if you are building a lightweight PC or mounting fans in sensitive areas.
Is the 120mm fan suitable for quiet case ventilation?
Yes, the TL-C12C is designed for quiet operation. It features a fluid dynamic bearing for reliable performance and low noise. It offers solid airflow for standard cases. You get practical cooling without the noise of high-speed fans.
What is the main size difference between the two fans?
The primary difference is the footprint and thickness. The 92mm fan is 92 by 92 by 15 mm. The 120mm fan is 120 by 120 by 25 mm. The 120mm model is wider and taller. The 92mm model is significantly thinner, fitting in restricted vertical spaces.
Can I use the 92mm fan for general case intake?
It is not ideal for general intake. The TL-9015 is best for tight spaces and 92mm slots. It fits builders who need thin fans for specific CPU coolers or compact cases. Standard case ventilation usually requires the larger 120mm format for better airflow coverage.
Does the 120mm fan have a specific bearing type listed?
Yes, the TL-C12C uses a fluid dynamic bearing. This type of bearing is known for smooth operation and longevity. The 92mm fan data does not specify the bearing type, so you should assume it is not the primary focus for that model.