Author: Sonny Maitland-Smith
Here's the spec:
Model: Dimensions: Operating Voltage: Starting Voltage: Current: Materials: Speed: Air Flow: Air Pressure: Noise: Bearing Type: | Spectre Pro: 120x120x25mm 12VDC 5VDC 0.11A +/- 10% PC & PBT 1200 RPM +/- 10% 56.22 CFM +/- 10% 1.24 mmH2O 18.9 dB(A) Fluid Dynamic Bearings (FDB) |
What's In The Box:
The Bitfenix Spectre Pro comes with a few accessories to help you mount it in your case. First of all, are the standard four fan screws, but you also get four rubber anti-vibration mounts, to aid in noise reduction. On top of this you get a 'three-pin' to molex connector, but keep in mind that it only has two of the pins active - the 12 volt and the 5V. You get a decent amount of accessories for the price you pay, but I would have liked to see a low noise adapter considering this is not a PWM fan, but this is only a minor gripe and does not detract from my overall opinion on the fan.
 |  |
Design:
The design is something that hasn't really been seen before. It uses a hexagonal shape pattern around the outer structure that really draws the eye. It's two tone black and grey colour scheme is simple, but the plastic material seems a little cheap to feel. The Spectre Pro uses a 'dual frame construction' (evident by the light grey structure in the middle) that reduces vibration when the fan is spinning
| The Spectre Pro features reinforced blades to prevent warping during use. This results in a slightly thicker blade design, and one that looks aesthetically pleasing too! The nine blades are designed in more of a curved manner compared to conventional fans, and Bitfenix claims that this helps to focus the airflow. The material used has a nice plastic texture, and the addition of the Bitfenix logo in the center doesn't appear as overly invasive. I find the use of two frames interesting, as it introduces modding techniques that are not possible on other designs. For example, one could remove the inner part, and spray the outside a different colour, or even vice versa if you have the patience. I know this is an anti-vibration technology, but it is a nice way feature that challenges other manufacturers to consider other modding opportunities. The three-pin connection cable is also well made. It's a good length, and doesn't feel cheap. It's a shame that it's not sleeved, but for the |    |
price you can't argue. It's worth mentioning that there are four-pin PWM versions available.
Performance:
By connecting the fan directly to a molex with the included adapter, I was able to test the fan at full speed. What I can safely say is that the fan does not have any discernible 'whine' when running at full speed. They don't have the best airflow that I have ever seen, and comparing them to something like the Noctua NF-P14 shows that they really don't push a whole amount of air. That isn't to say that they are bad however, as this would be something you would be more likely to use on a radiator or a cpu cooler in push-pull, rather than a case fan dedicated to airflow. I also compared it to it's older brother, the Bitfenix Spectre, and found that this is a massive improvement over the old design. It pushes more air, is a lot faster and it generally just feels like it is having a better time doing so. The Pro still seems to lack a good amount of pressure when compared to the older model; its supposed 1.2mmH20 of pressure isn't anything to be amazed at. It also lacks forward tunnelling airflow, despite being at an average 56.2 CFM. Remember, that this is at 1200 RPM, so if Bitfenix were to release a faster version, the performance would undoubtedly increase. It was a pleasure, though, to not have any of the annoying high frequency noises that are common with cheaper fans.
Conclusion:
I've had a good play around with the Spectre Pro, and I can safely say that it is a competent performer for it's price, but lacks some crucial features I think would make it an even better product. Firstly, I wholeheartedly praise the design of the fan, I think it is innovative and is brilliant for modders, and the anti-vibration technology works well too. This however, has a downside. The construction of the fan feels a little cheap, but I understand that this isn't the most expensive product around, and with that in mind I can live with it, but it would have been great to see something a little more sturdy, with a little less flex.
Secondly, more of a kick with the airflow would have been great, as it doesn't really reach far. Again, this is up to your personal preference, and it is definitely a good fan, it's just a small niggle I think could be improved upon. This however, means that the noise is pretty much nil, which gives it a definite pro in the performance department.
Lastly, I really, really liike the removable outer structure. It just strikes me that Bitfenix have put a lot of effort into the development of this fan, and it shows. The possibilities are almost endless!
As for the packaging, it is a little lackluster, with no low noise adapters, but you do get the molex adapter so that is a bonus. To conclude, you get a good balance of price and performance, and this is definitely something that would appeal to the average cost-conscious consumer.
Secondly, more of a kick with the airflow would have been great, as it doesn't really reach far. Again, this is up to your personal preference, and it is definitely a good fan, it's just a small niggle I think could be improved upon. This however, means that the noise is pretty much nil, which gives it a definite pro in the performance department.
Lastly, I really, really liike the removable outer structure. It just strikes me that Bitfenix have put a lot of effort into the development of this fan, and it shows. The possibilities are almost endless!
As for the packaging, it is a little lackluster, with no low noise adapters, but you do get the molex adapter so that is a bonus. To conclude, you get a good balance of price and performance, and this is definitely something that would appeal to the average cost-conscious consumer.
Verdict:
| Performance: Build Quality: Features & Compatibility: Aesthetics & Packaging: Value for Money: | 35/50 6/10 6/10 6/10 14/20 | Rating: |
Search pricing for this product:
If you wish to buy the product, don't forget to use this affiliate link to help support us as we get a nice little kick-back from it!
