Thermaltake
Thermaltake SWAFAN EX 12 ARGB PC Cooling Fan (CL-F167-PL12SW-A)
Bottom line: The Thermaltake SWAFAN EX 12 ARGB PC Cooling Fan: Reverse blades swap intake/exhaust while the lit side still faces out; main trade-off: magnetic chain system relies on the included Thermaltake mag-cables.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Reverse blades swap intake/exhaust while the lit side still faces out
- ✓ Magnetic links daisy-chain up to 3 fans on one cable for cleaner routing
- ✓ 500-2000 RPM PWM range covers quiet idle through full-load cooling
- ✓ Up to 57 CFM per fan with either the standard or reverse blades
- ✓ 5V ARGB syncs with motherboard RGB software, no extra controller needed
Cons
- ✗ Magnetic chain system relies on the included Thermaltake mag-cables
- ✗ No static pressure or noise (dBA) figures listed for radiator planning
- ✗ Needs a 5V 3-pin ARGB header; 12V RGB-only boards won't drive it
- ✗ 120mm only; 140mm case and radiator mounts need a different kit
Manufacturer description
The Thermaltake SWAFAN EX 12 ARGB is a 3-pack of 120mm PWM case fans with two main features: swappable blades and magnetic connections. Each fan measures 120 x 120 x 25 mm, spins from 500 to 2000 RPM and moves up to 57 CFM. You can set it for quiet idle or full-load airflow from your motherboard's PWM fan curve. The swappable blades are what set this fan apart. Thermaltake includes three reverse blades in the box. They let you switch a fan between intake and exhaust without turning the frame around, so the lit side still faces out. The rating of up to 2000 RPM and 57 CFM applies to both the…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored Thermaltake SWAFAN EX 12 ARGB PC Cooling Fan using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the cooling & fans category. Thermaltake's cooling & fans lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for cooling & fans of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use these fans as exhaust without the lighting facing into the case?
Yes. The kit includes three reverse blades. Swap one in and the fan becomes exhaust while the frame and its lit side stay facing the same way. Thermaltake rates the fan at up to 2000 RPM and 57 CFM with either blade.
How many SWAFAN EX 12 fans can I run from one cable?
Up to three fans per cable. The fans connect to each other with neodymium magnets and power passes through that link, so a full 3-pack can run from a single lead.
Will the ARGB lighting work with my motherboard?
The lighting uses 5V ARGB and is controlled through your motherboard's RGB sync software. You need a 5V 3-pin ARGB header. Check your motherboard manual or Thermaltake's compatibility list for your specific board's sync software.
Will these fit my case or 120mm radiator?
Each fan measures 120 x 120 x 25 mm, the standard 120mm size with a 25 mm thickness. Check your case or radiator for 120mm mounting holes and at least 25 mm of clearance.
What comes in the box and how fast do the fans spin?
You get three 120mm PWM fans, three reverse blades, three magnetic cables and mounting accessories. Speed is PWM-controlled from 500 to 2000 RPM, with airflow up to 57 CFM per fan. Check the product listing for current warranty terms.
Key Features
- Swappable Fan Blade Design and Neodymium Magnetic Connection
- Connect multiple fans with only one cable
- Supports up to 2000 RPM (Standard|Reverse) with up to 57 CFM for airflow
- Includes: 3 120mm PWM Fans, 3 Reversable Blades, 3 Mag-cables and accessories
- ARGB lighinting effects controlled by Motherboard Sync software
Full Specifications
| Brand | Thermaltake |
|---|---|
| Model | CL-F167-PL12SW-A |
| Voltage | 5 volts |
| Wattage | 3.6 watts |
| Includes | 3 120mm PWM Fans, 3 Reversable Blades, 3 Mag-cables and accessories |
| Material | neodymium |
| Unit Count | 3 Count |
| Noise Level | 32.5 db |
| Part Number | CL-F167-PL12SW-A |
| Compatibility | PC |
| Material Type | neodymium |
| Cooling Method | Fan |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Number of Packs | 3 |
| Air Flow Capacity | 57 cfm |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Warranty Description | 2 year manufacturer |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 2000 rpm |
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 4.72"L x 0.98"W x 4.72"H |
| Full listing title | Thermaltake SWAFAN EX 12 ARGB PC Cooling Fan, 3-Fan pcak, 500~2000 RPM, Magnetic Connection, Reversable Blades, sync with MB RGB Software, CL-F167-PL12SW-A |
Ready to buy?
Thermaltake SWAFAN EX 12 ARGB PC Cooling Fan, 3-Fan pcak, 500~2000 RPM, Magnetic Connection, Reversable Blades, sync with MB RGB Software, CL-F167-PL12SW-A is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
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