NZXT
NZXT F420 RGB Core - 420mm Single-Frame RGB Fan Unit - Black
Bottom line: The NZXT F420 RGB Core: Single 420mm frame mounts in one pass, no per-fan cable runs; main trade-off: NZXT controller for CAM speed control is sold separately.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Single 420mm frame mounts in one pass, no per-fan cable runs
- ✓ Eight addressable RGB LEDs per hub for a continuous lit bar
- ✓ Works with any 5V aRGB motherboard header via included splitter
- ✓ Fluid dynamic bearings rated for 60,000 hours of runtime
Cons
- ✗ NZXT controller for CAM speed control is sold separately
- ✗ 420mm frame only fits cases with a full 420mm mount
- ✗ Rigid single frame removes per-fan spacing flexibility
- ✗ aRGB header mode gives lighting but no NZXT CAM fan curves
Manufacturer description
The NZXT F420 RGB Core rethinks how you cool a 420mm radiator mount: instead of three separate 140mm fans with their own cables, daisy chains, and alignment headaches, you get one continuous frame with the fans already integrated. That means a single mounting pass and a single lighting zone to manage, which matters in a cramped front-panel install where cable slack usually ends up zip-tied behind the motherboard tray. Each fan hub carries eight individually addressable RGB LEDs that glow through semi-translucent blades, so effects read as one unbroken bar rather than three disconnected…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored NZXT F420 RGB Core using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the cooling & fans category. NZXT'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
Will the NZXT F420 RGB Core fit my case?
It needs a case position rated for a 420mm radiator or three 140mm fans in a continuous row. Check your case manual for a 420mm mount before ordering; the single frame cannot be split to fit a shorter run.
Do I need an NZXT controller to use this fan?
No. The included splitter cable connects to any motherboard 5V aRGB header for lighting. An NZXT controller (sold separately) is only required if you want lighting and fan-speed control through NZXT CAM software.
How many RGB LEDs does the F420 RGB Core have?
Eight individually addressable RGB LEDs per fan hub, shining through semi-translucent blades. Because all three hubs sit in one frame, effects sync across the full 420mm span without per-fan wiring.
Is this fan quiet enough for a desk-side build?
NZXT specifies fluid dynamic bearings for quiet operation and a 60,000-hour lifespan. NZXT does not publish a dBA figure in this listing.
Is the F420 RGB Core good for radiators or case airflow?
Both. The blades are shaped to raise static pressure so air pushes through tight radiator fins and mesh filters, while still delivering airflow when mounted as an intake or exhaust.
Key Features
- ALL-IN-ONE DESIGN — Single-frame unit with integrated fans streamlines installation and lighting control—no need to connect individual fans.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Simply connect to an NZXT controller (sold separately) for lighting and speed control via NZXT CAM software. Or, connect to any motherboard's 5V aRGB header using the included splitter cable.
- OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE — Fan blades are designed to boost static pressure to push air through tight spaces while ensuring superior airflow.
- SILENT & DURABLE — Fluid dynamic bearings ensure quiet performance and longevity across an exceptional 60,000 hour lifespan.
- VIBRANT LIGHTING — Eight individually addressable RGB LEDs per fan hub shine through semi-translucent blades for personalized lighting effects.
Full Specifications
| Brand | NZXT |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Model | RF-U42HF-B1 |
| Voltage | 5 volts_of_direct_current |
| Wattage | 11.4 watts |
| Unit Count | 3 Count |
| Noise Level | 34.5 db |
| Part Number | RF-U42HF-B1 |
| Cooling Method | Fan |
| Item Highlight | 420mm single-frame unit with three 140mm RGB fans on one cable. Speed and lighting controlled through CAM. |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Number of Packs | 1 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Warranty Description | 5 Year Manufacturer |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 2000 rpm |
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 16.54"L x 16.54"W x 16.54"H |
Ready to buy?
NZXT F420 RGB Core - 420mm Single-Frame RGB Fan Unit - Black 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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