Corsair iCUE LINK LX120 RGB – Quick Review

Corsair iCUE LINK LX120 RGB – Following the announcement of the iCUE LINK smart component ecosystem, aimed at streamlining PC build processes and managing component connections via a single cable, Corsair has continuously released various iCUE LINK-supported products, ranging from PC cases and AIO water coolers to custom water cooling kits, with numerous improvements in design and performance.

To complete the cooling ecosystem with efficient solutions, Corsair has upgraded the iCUE LINK fan models with optimized airflow technology, robust magnetic bearings, and intelligent temperature sensors – all fully digitally controlled when connected to the system via a single cable.

Positioned in the more accessible mid-range segment compared to its "older brother" QX120 RGB, the Corsair iCUE LINK LX120 RGB brings Corsair's latest cooling technologies to high-performance systems, while still providing a full range of components and features for beginners in the iCUE LINK ecosystem.

Will the Corsair iCUE LINK LX120 RGB offer a more unique installation and usage experience compared to traditional fans? Let's find out with tipsplay.net!

Corsair iCUE LINK LX120 RGB – Compact and powerful!

Packaged in the familiar yellow and black color scheme, the Corsair iCUE LINK LX120 RGB features a simple yet comprehensive box design, listing key functions, the colorful iCUE LINK ecosystem logo, and some important cooling specifications.

Upon unboxing, the fan assembly, packaged by Corsair, appears to be somewhat more angular than typical fan designs, noticeable in its tapered edges instead of the "sandwich" design between two square sides, and the optimized space for the plastic strips that disperse the lights.

Although a small detail, the LX120 RGB series features rubber pads at four screw mounting points, offering better noise absorption during operation by partially eliminating the contact sound between the fan and the case.

Inside, the Corsair 'Starter Pack' is fully equipped with accessories to allow users to easily 'get started' with installing the fan system, including an iCUE LINK hub, power cord, connection cable to the mounting brackets between the fans, and a set of white-painted QuikTurn single-turn screws.

Upon closer inspection of each fan, the Corsair iCUE LINK LX120 RGB appears to have had the common 4-pin PWM connector and ARGB lighting control wires 'cut off,' replaced instead by connectors resembling 'charging ports' installed on both sides.

Unlike many traditional fans that require connecting to the motherboard via two separate speed and lighting control wires, along with multiple 'combined' wires from several fans, the unique feature of the Corsair iCUE LINK LX120 RGB lies in its ability to 'assemble' multiple fans and connect them to the iCUE LINK system with just one wire. This provides a simpler PC building experience without complicated wiring, while simultaneously allowing you to control both lighting and cooling systems using a single software application.

Furthermore, the iCUE LINK ecosystem offers the ability to connect a wide variety of different components, from pre-built water cooling systems to compatible cases, simply by using a series connection instead of having to connect each component to a corresponding port.

While this is a strength, it's worth noting that because the iCUE LINK ecosystem uses proprietary connection standards, fan control and lighting management are entirely dependent on the iCUE software – which is currently only supported on Windows. Therefore, the ability to control or optimize fan speed via third-party software, or even 'tweak' it in the BIOS, is a drawback to consider for gamers who want to simplify their PC setup or use other operating systems like Linux.

In terms of cooling performance, the Corsair iCUE LINK LX120 RGB fan system features AirGuide airflow technology and Magnetic Dome bearings for efficient airflow focusing, low noise operation, long lifespan, and minimal vibration. Optimized for static pressure, the fan system is best suited for cooling radiators in water cooling systems, although it can still deliver high performance when installed to cool a PC case.

The Corsair iCUE LINK LX120 RGB can operate with PWM fan speeds up to 2400RPM for high-performance cooling, or be completely 'off' via Zero PWM mode to eliminate noise when the system is only handling light loads.

Corsair's LX120 RGB series features up to 18 ARGB LEDs running along two inner and outer loops, offering unique lighting effects such as 'Time Warp' mode, full customization capabilities, and linking between setup zones via iCUE software.

During installation, the fan assembly unexpectedly revealed some small but relatively subtle design details. For example, while the connecting surface between the two fan units might already be "securely attached" by detachable connectors, each fan unit is also equipped with magnets to make installation somewhat easier.

In addition, the iCUE LINK hub is equipped with magnets for hard-to-reach installation locations such as in Mini-ITX cases, and Corsair has also equipped the iCUE LINK connectors with 'retractable' cables for quick detachment.

Summary

Overall, the Corsair iCUE LINK LX120 RGB can be installed in a variety of locations thanks to its optimal static pressure and powerful performance – from on top of the case for decoration and additional airflow, to on the most demanding radiator setups of water cooling systems.

In addition, the fan set offers valuable features such as design, lighting modes, and convenient installation and connectivity within the iCUE LINK ecosystem, combined with several minor upgrades for an enhanced user experience.

However, the Corsair iCUE LINK LX120 RGB comes with a price tag that isn't exactly cheap for a mid-range fan system, causing many gamers to think carefully before buying.