Fractal Design claims the Prisma models as its most efficient 140mm fans. According to the specs, they are supposed to achieve the highest airflow at a lower noise level than the Aspect 14s. However, this is physically impossible due to the constructional differences of the two fans. The title of the article has a bit of a pejorative tone and while the Prisma AL-14 PWM is a decent fan, it already has a superior from its own ranks.
They’re built on an exceptionally efficient aerodynamic design, but come at a lower price point. Using more flexible blades reduces manufacturing costs, and the bearings in the Dynamic 3 fans are also “simpler” compared to the Momentum series. For the user, this doesn’t necessarily mean any major drawback—on the contrary, you can look forward to more pronounced lighting, enabled in part by a larger area of light‑conducting material. Read more “FD Dynamic 3: Efficient design (from Momentums) cheaper”
For it to be possible to speak of a fully metallic construction, the basic prerequisite is that the blades are also made of such material. This applies to Cooler Master’s “A” series fans, whereas the lower-end—or cheaper, interpret that however you prefer—model uses aluminium only for the frame. Yes, this can still be described as a metal fan, but it is somewhat of a… “hybrid” design, although one equipped with RGB lighting as well. Read more “If aluminium fans, then fully aluminium (including the impeller)”
Arctic has expanded its fan portfolio with new P12 Pro (A-RGB) models carrying the “LN” suffix in their designation. This stands for “low-noise” and in practice mainly means that maximum speeds are capped lower than on the original (P12 Pro/A-RGB) fans. However, the aerodynamic design itself remains unchanged, with the primary difference being the motor. At the same time, these are still affordable fans. Read more “Primarily quieter operation: Arctic P12 Pro (A-RGB) LN fans”
What are the main features of the Prisma AL-14 PWM fan by Fractal Design?
It’s hard to identify a single main feature – personally, I wouldn’t dare to do so because it really depends on your perspective. The Prisma AL-14 PWM is, in any case, a relatively efficient fan with ARGB elements. Of course, in terms of the airflow-to-noise ratio, it’s starting to show the limitations of its outdated rotor design – but it’s all about compromises. Yes, there are currently more attractive alternatives on the market, and even more promising fans are on the way – including from Fractal Design itself. These will also feature ARGB and come in a 140 mm format. Stay tuned. 🙂