Fan Grills yes or no?

[Tonec]

Chrome fan grills a are definate improvement over the metal cutouts on most cases but they were still a bit too loud for me even with Panaflos. Running with no cover at all proved to be almost silent when using rubber cushions between the fan and case. Since I don't have pets and I don't reach behind the case too, there really isn't any need for a grill. Safety isn't a concern since the Panaflos have a low rpm and don't hurt when you stick a finger in(had to try) Is anyone else doing this?

 

[clumsum]

Was the louder noise, when using the wire grills, from airflow restriction or vibration....?
I personally prefer the grills, but have not tried running w/o them............

 

[Tonec]

There was a definate whine from air turbulence when using the wire grills. Without it sounds the same as running the fan completely outside teh case.

 

[toph99]

i don't see any need. i have 2 80mm's in my case(both hand cut in the side of the silly dell microtower) both without grilles, the intake having a thin fiberglass mesh to keep out any large dust bunnies etc. but since you have no animals and i'm assuming no little kids are gonna be sticking their fingers in there, the grill is only for aesthetic purposes