Thermaltake SWAFAN EX 12 RGB Cooling Fan Review

Table of Contents

Introduction

In the realm of PC customization and performance, the Thermaltake SWAFAN EX 12 RGB stands out as a game-changer. This innovative three-fan pack is a perfect fusion of technological advancement and aesthetic design, catering to the demands of modern PC builders and enthusiasts. The unique feature of the SWAFAN EX 12 RGB is its swappable fan blade technology, which allows users to switch between two distinct fan blades. This flexibility ensures that users can fine-tune their system’s airflow according to their specific cooling needs while maintaining the captivating visual appeal of RGB lighting. The fans not only promise efficient cooling but also add a dynamic visual element to any PC build, making them a versatile and attractive choice for gamers, content creators, and anyone looking to elevate their computing experience. With the SWAFAN 12 RGB, Thermaltake redefines the balance between performance, customization, and style, setting a new standard in the world of PC cooling solutions.

The Thermaltake SWAFAN EX 12 RGB Cooling fans can currently be purchased for £89.99 from SCAN.

SWAFAN EX 12 Specifications

Part Number: CL-F137-PL12SW-A
Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 25 mm
Interface: USB 2.0 connectors (9 Pin)
Compatibility: Windows 10 / 11
Fan Voltage: 9.0 V Start, 12 V Rated
Current: 0.27A (per fan)
Power Input: 3.24 W (per fan)
Speed: 500 – 2000 RPM
Max Air Pressure: 2.58 mmH2O / 2.19 mmH2O
Max Airflow: 53.02 CFM / 54.85 CFM
Noise: 30.5 dB-A / 36.5 dB-A
Bearing Type: Hydraulic
Life Expectancy: 40,000 hrs at 25℃
Included: 3 Fan Frames, 6 Fan Blades, 1 Controller

Closer Look

Taking a quick look at the front of the box, not only is there a nice image of the fan, we can see some of the more important specs. The SWAFAN EX 12 RGB features magnetic connections, and swappable fan blades and is compatible with the TT RGB PLUS Ecosystem.

Onto the side of the box and we see some more detailed specs of what the SWAFAN EX has to offer.

The back of the box shows how the fans can be connected with a single cable and even shows which way the air will blow depending on the blades you are using.

Inside the box, the fans and spare blades and protected very well. There are even small pieces of styrofoam between them to help ensure they don’t get damaged or scratched.

Inside the smaller black box next to the fans are all the accessories and cables you will need to make use of the fans. There is also a controller box so you can connect more than three fans to the same system.

Thermaltake has gone one step beyond and included a bit of bearing oil with their SWANFAN EX. After swapping the fan blades a few times, if you notice the oil is low, simply add a small amount. This will improve the longevity of the fans and will help to maintain the overall performance they have to offer.

We took our first look at the SWAFAN EX fans and they do look amazing, even before the RGB LEDS light them up. The white version looks extremely clean and is going to add to the aesthetic of any build.

The fan magnets are quite strong and they connect very easily. It has been a long time coming but at least we can finally say goodbye to the days when we needed two cables from every RGB fan.

The great thing and main purpose of the SWAFAN EX is to offer fans that look great no matter what. Being able to swap the blades means you never have to look at the back of the fans again. This allows you to keep your build looking as good as possible while making sure you get the airflow you need.

The LED ring around the SWAFAN EX is separate from the frame but still falls in line with the overall thickness of the entire fan.

These little prongs on the SWAFAN EX are going to connect to a similar set of pads magnetically. These fans are PWM even when using this connector so you will still be able to set your custom fan curves and control the LEDs.

This is a close-up of the pads that the prongs in the previous image connect to. In a later image, you will get an idea of just how strong the magnetic connection is between these. While I recommend always using all the screws when mounting the SWAFAN EX fans, you can at least dry-fit them to see if they will fit, etc without the need for using all the screws.

On the corners, Thermaltake has included anti-vibration mounting to reduce the noise and vibrations created by the fans, especially at higher RPMs.

The fans pop off quite easily. I must admit, the first time is always a bit scary but once you do it, your mind will be at rest. While it is hard to see in the photo below, there is oil in the middle of the bearing. When this dries up, you can use the included syringe to apply a bit more oil to keep things lubed up and working as they should.

As there is so much focus on the front of the fans and their hot-swappable blades, the back is rather plain. However, we can see the wires coming from the central hub and they are white to match the overall look of the fans.

The RGB effects are bright and vibrant and as previously mentioned can be controlled with the TT RGB PLUS software. Users looking for further customization options can also make use of the NeonMaker software.

The SWAFAN EX 12 can be used on its own, or in a group of two or three fans, the decision is yours. As we saw in the accessories, there is a cable for each fan so if you are not looking to connect them all, there is no need to worry.

The colors really are amazing, even outside of a PC, I could look at these for a long time. Almost makes me want to put them on the mantle during the summer as use them as room fans as they look that nice.

And here it is, the image that shows how strong the magnetic connections are. As you can see, I am holding the fans up in the air and they are still connected and working just fine. Again, when adding these to your build it will be worth it to use all the screws and mount them properly but for testing things out, they hold together quite well.

Use Cases

Ideal for high-performance PC builds, the SWAFAN 12 RGB is versatile for various setups, including thick radiators, air coolers, or cases with multiple filters. Its swappable fan blade design lets users tailor airflow direction without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. The fans’ compatibility with Thermaltake’s TT RGB PLUS 2.0 software offers extensive customization for lighting effects and PC monitoring functions. Furthermore, they integrate seamlessly into a wider RGB ecosystem and support voice control via Amazon Alexa and TT AI Voice Control, adding convenience and a futuristic touch to any setup.

Testing

We did some tests on these fans at 20%, 50%, and 100% speeds to check their CFM and noise output in dBA. The below tests use the standard blades that push air through the back.

20% – 13.95CFM / 7dBA

50% – 32.25CFM / 21.2 dBA

100% – 59.20CFM / 37.5dBA

Conclusion

The Thermaltake SWAFAN 12 RGB Radiator Fan emerges as a revolutionary product in the PC cooling market. It brilliantly marries high-end performance with aesthetics, making it an ideal choice for both hardcore gamers and professional content creators. The unique swappable fan blade design is a testament to Thermaltakes commitment to innovative and user-friendly design, allowing for unprecedented customization in airflow management without sacrificing visual appeal. The integration with TT RGB PLUS 2.0 software and voice control capabilities through Amazon Alexa and TT AI enhances its usability, bringing a futuristic and intuitive control experience to the user’s fingertips. With its impressive cooling efficiency, vibrant RGB lighting, and user-centric design, the SWAFAN 12 RGB is more than just a cooling solution; it’s a statement piece that accentuates any PC build, enhancing both its performance and aesthetic appeal. This product stands as a shining example of how technology can be both functionally superior and visually stunning, making it an essential component for anyone looking to build a high-performance, visually captivating PC setup.

When it comes to pure performance, the SWANFAN EX 12s have a lot to offer. They manage to offer good airflow and aren’t overly loud. While they are audible, especially at higher speeds, most users will not be running them at 100% so the noise really shouldn’t be an issue.

While the price may seem a bit steep to some, you have to remember what you are getting with these fans and what they offer. Being able to easily change the blades on them to change the direction of airflow is an absolute game changer. Chuck in some amazing RGB effects and a 40,000-hour life expectancy and you have some great fans!