PWM vs DC Fans: What’s the Difference?
Peter P
PWM vs DC Fans: What’s the Difference?
A VÖXBURG guide to quieter airflow and smarter fan control.
PC fans may look the same, but how they’re controlled makes a massive difference in noise, cooling, and system longevity. The two most common types are PWM and DC.
DC Fans (3-Pin) – Voltage Control
DC fans use a 3-pin connector. The motherboard changes fan speed by raising or lowering the voltage supplied to the fan.
- 3-pin connector
- Voltage-based speed control
- Budget-friendly
- Less precise at low RPM
PWM Fans (4-Pin) – Signal Control
PWM fans use a 4-pin connector. They receive constant 12V power, while a separate signal wire controls speed precisely.
- 4-pin connector
- Signal-based speed control
- Quieter idle operation
- Smoother fan curves
PWM vs DC – Quick Comparison
| Feature | DC | PWM |
|---|---|---|
| Connector | 3-Pin | 4-Pin |
| Speed Control | Voltage | PWM Signal |
| Noise Control | Moderate | Excellent |
| Precision | Basic | High |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose DC if: you’re on a budget or running older hardware.
Choose PWM if: you want quieter operation and better control.
VÖXBURG rule: If your motherboard supports PWM, always go PWM.