How loud are 120 mm fans supposed to be?

[blanketyblank]

I've put together a new computer with 2 120mm fans, but it seems kind of loud. If I disconnect both fans the cpu fan is barely noticable, but I don't want to sacrifice the cooling. How loud are these things supposed to be? I've heard 120s are the best in terms of sound, but I can hear the computer as soon as I enter my room.
Preferrably I want the system silent.
I'm wondering if investing in a better case would help (i.e. a P180). However it seems to me it wouldn't make a difference since the air still needs to be blown out somehow and air moving would make noise.

 

[Aluvus]

Depends on the exact model(s) of the fans. Some are quiet, some are loud. 120 mm fans are generally quieter than smaller fans.

 

[RallyMaster]

mine make a low hum when you face the side with the 80mm exhaust (2000RPM, still pretty quiet). the other side is pretty quiet.

 

[zagood]

120mm fans can be very loud if you've just got them plugged in to the power supply or motherboard (running at 12v). What fans do you have?

You might want to either a) plug them into a fan controller so you can adjust the speeds, b) use speedfan or other software to control their speeds through the motherboard, or c) buy fans that are quieter.

-z

 

[imported_Imp]

Generally they are quiter, but it most depends on the fan speed. You can pay a premium on really expensive fans or turn the speed down (fan controller/ volt mods, etc.). I replaced a stock 120mm 1600rpm with a 1200rpm and the change was astounding. It still makes a whing noise, but it doesn't stand out from the room's ambient noises.