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Usually, no—not unless you have identified the exact fan’s LED circuit. “120 mm” describes the fan’s size, not how its lights are wired. Cutting an unknown PCB trace could affect the motor or other electronics as well as the LEDs. First check the fan’s model and manual for a documented lighting control or separate lighting connection; if you cannot confirm the LED path, leave the board intact.
Why fan size does not tell you which trace to cut
A 120 mm measurement identifies the fan’s dimensions, not its circuit design. Fan models can route lighting and motor power through separate connections or integrate their electronics differently. Without the exact model and a reliable circuit diagram, there is no particular trace that can safely be identified as the LED trace for your fan.
The general guidance in Position is Everything’s guide, published May 27, 2026, also cautions that lighting paths may share board circuitry with motor electronics. A trace cut is permanent, and the available information does not establish that a cut will turn off the lights while preserving fan operation or warranty coverage.
Check for a documented way to control the lights
Identify the make, model, and connections
- Find the fan’s model label or packaging, then check that model’s manual or manufacturer support information.
- Inspect the cables and connectors, but do not identify a connector as lighting-only by appearance or pin count.
- Follow the manual’s wiring instructions to determine whether the fan has a separate lighting connection or a documented lighting-control method.
Use separate controls when the model supports them
Some fans separate motor-speed control from lighting. CORSAIR’s RS ARGB Series PWM Fans guide, for example, describes connecting the PWM cable to a fan header and the ARGB extension to a +5 V ARGB header. For that product family, the devices connected to those respective cables manage fan speed and lighting. This is a model-specific example, not proof that an unknown fan uses the same wiring.
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#1 Best Overall
Noctua NF-P12 redux-1700 PWM, Quiet Fan 120mm
- High performance cooling fan, 120x120x25 mm, 12V, 4-pin PWM, max. 1700 RPM, max. 25.1 dB(A), >150,000 h MTTF
- Renowned NF-P12 high-end 120x25mm 12V fan, more than 100 awards and recommendations from international computer hardware websites and magazines, hundreds of thousands of satisfied users
- Pressure-optimised blade design with outstanding quietness of operation: high static pressure and strong CFM for air-based CPU coolers, water cooling radiators or low-noise chassis ventilation
- 1700rpm 4-pin PWM version with excellent balance of performance and quietness, supports automatic motherboard speed control (powerful airflow when required, virtually silent at idle)
- Streamlined redux edition: proven Noctua quality at an attractive price point, wide range of optional accessories (anti-vibration mounts, S-ATA adaptors, y-splitters, extension cables, etc.)
CORSAIR’s AR RGB Fan Quick Start Guide likewise describes a particular setup in which an RGB LED cable connects through an adapter to a 5 V, 3-pin ARGB header. Use a separate plug or controller only when your own fan’s documentation confirms the connection and compatible control method.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 1
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Best Value
Thermalright TL-C12C X5 CPU Fan,Black Cooling, Fan in The unlit Version，Establish Ties or Contact PC Fan with 1550RPM Speed, 120mm Computer Case Cooler,PWM Control for Case and Liquid Cooler
- 【High Performance Cooling Fan】 Automatic speed control of the motherboard through the 4PIN PWM fan cable interface, which can determine the speed according to the temperature of the motherboard, with a maximum speed of 1550RPM. Configured with up to 55cm of cable for PWM series control of fans, ideal for cases and CPU coolers.
- 【Quality Bearings】The carefully developed quality S-FDB bearings solve the problem of pc cooling fan blade shaking in lifting mode, keeping fan noise to a minimum while providing maximum cooling performance when needed and extending the life of the fan.
- 【Silent Fan Size】 Model: TL-C12C X5, Size: 120*120*25mm, Speed: 1550RPM±10%, Noise ≤ 25.6dBA Connector: 4pin pwm, Current: 0.20A, Air Pressure: 1.53mm H2O, Air Flow: 66.17CFM, Higher air flow for improved cooling performance.
- 【Intelligent Temperature Control Function】The fan has PWM temperature control function, after connecting the 4-pin power supply interface to the motherboard, there is no need to manually adjust the speed, the fan will automatically set the unfixed speed according to the temperature, if you want a fixed speed, you can adjust the fan to DC mode.
- 【Perfect Match】The PC fan can be used not only as a case fan, but is also suitable for use with a cpu cooler to create a cooling effect together, which can take away the dry heat from the case and the high temperature generated by the CPU in operation, allowing for maximum cooling; Ideal for cases, radiators and CPU coolers.
Rank #4
Sale
CORSAIR RS120 ARGB 120mm PWM Fans – Daisy-Chain Connection – Low-Noise – Magnetic Dome Bearing – Triple Pack – Black
- Streamlined Fan Connections: Daisy-chain multiple fans together and control them all through just one 4-pin PWM connector and one +5V ARGB connector.
- Lighting Made Easy: Eight LEDs per fan shine bright with customisable lighting through your motherboard’s built-in ARGB control (requires compatible motherboard).
- Precise PWM Speeds: Set your fan speeds up to 2,100 RPM while providing up to 72.8 CFM airflow to your system.
- CORSAIR AirGuide Technology: Anti-vortex vanes direct airflow at your hottest components for concentrated cooling, pushing air in the direction you need when mounted to a radiator or heatsink.
- High Static Pressure: RS fans work well as radiator fans with a static pressure of 2.8mm-H2O to push through obstructions.
Rank #3
Sale
CORSAIR RS120 120mm PWM Fans – Daisy-Chain Connection – Low-Noise – Magnetic Dome Bearing – Triple Pack – Black
- Streamlined Fan Connections: Daisy-chain multiple fans together and control them all through just a single 4-pin PWM connector.
- Precise PWM Speeds: Set your fan speeds up to 2,100 RPM while providing up to 72.8 CFM airflow to your system.
- CORSAIR AirGuide Technology: Anti-vortex vanes direct airflow at your hottest components for concentrated cooling, pushing air in the direction you need when mounted to a radiator or heatsink.
- High Static Pressure: RS fans work well as radiator fans with a static pressure of 4.15mm-H2O to push through obstructions.
- Quiet Operation with Magnetic Dome Bearing: CORSAIR’s Magnetic Dome bearing minimises noise and reduces friction for greater longevity.
Rank #2
ARCTIC P12 Pro PST - Powerful Premium Fan, 120 mm PWM Fan, 600-3000 RPM
- HIGH STATIC PRESSURE: Efficient even with resistance – the generated airflow easily penetrates dense radiators, narrow perforated panels and mesh structures and ensures reliable cooling
- PWM CONTROL WITH WIDE SPEED RANGE: The speed can be progressively adjusted up to 3000 rpm via the 4-pin PWM connection – the fan stops completely at less than 5% PWM
- PRECISE MANUFACTURING FOR MAXIMUM SMOOTH RUNNING: Minimal gaps, automatic balancing and high-precision measurement noticeably reduce vibrations – for quiet, efficient and long-lasting performance
- SMOOTH-RUNNING FLUID DYNAMIC BEARING (FDB): The self-lubricating bearing minimizes noise during operation – ideal for quiet, efficient cooling and a long, reliable service life
- NEW FAN BLADE DESIGN FOR MORE PERFORMANCE: The redesigned rotor blades offer an optimal balance of performance and low noise – especially efficient at low speeds
Compare your options before modifying the PCB
| Option | Reversibility | Confidence it affects only lighting | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Documented lighting control or separate lighting connection | Reversible | High when confirmed in the fan’s instructions | May require a compatible controller, motherboard feature, or the specified connection. |
| Physical light blocking | Usually reversible | Depends on placement; it does not change the circuit | Opaque tape may block visible light, but do not cover moving parts or airflow openings. Follow product and fan safety guidance. |
| Cutting a PCB trace | Permanent | Unknown without an exact circuit diagram | Do not proceed unless the LED path is positively identified for that model; a wrong cut could affect fan operation. |
| Replacing the fan with a non-illuminated model | Replacement is reversible | Avoids modifying the existing fan’s unknown circuit | Check connector, dimensions, airflow, and noise requirements for your system. |
When to stop
- If you cannot confirm the fan model or identify the LED path from reliable documentation, do not cut a trace.
- If the manual documents a separate lighting connection or compatible control, use that method instead of modifying the PCB.
- If you only need to hide the light, consider an appropriate physical cover that does not obstruct airflow or contact moving parts.
- If you need the LEDs off and the circuitry is undocumented, leave the board intact and consider a compatible non-illuminated replacement.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
