My 3D printer started sounding like a jet engine taking off in my office last week. The stock fan was dying, and the noise was driving me crazy during my long prints.
I went to AliExpress to find a replacement because I didn't want to pay high prices for basic parts. I picked up a few of these cooling fans because the price was right and they offered free shipping.
What are these cooling fans?
These are basic brushless DC cooling fans available in almost every size you can think of, from 30mm up to 120mm. You can pick the exact voltage you need, whether that is 5V, 12V, or 24V.
The main appeal here is that these are dirt cheap compared to name-brand fans you find on hobby sites. They are budget-friendly alternatives meant for people who just need their printer or PC case back up and running without spending a fortune.
Real world performance
I installed the 4010 fan on my printer hotend and a larger 120mm fan on my enclosure. The airflow is decent for what you pay.
They definitely move enough air to keep components cool during standard printing tasks. Do not expect industrial-grade cooling, but they do exactly what they claim on the package.
The 2-pin connector is standard, which made the installation simple enough. I just had to strip my old wires and splice them together.
Honest pros and cons
- These fans are incredibly cheap.
- Free shipping makes them a great deal.
- They come in almost every size and voltage.
- The noise level is much quieter than my old, worn-out fans.
- The plastic casing feels a bit thin.
- Shipping from overseas takes a long time.
- There is zero local warranty if one arrives dead.
- The wires are often very thin and can snap if you pull them hard.
Who should buy these fans?
If you are a DIY enthusiast or a 3D printing hobbyist, these are perfect. They are great if you have a tight budget and do not mind waiting a few weeks for a delivery.
You should skip these if you need a replacement right away for a critical repair. You should also look elsewhere if you want high-end, silent bearings that last for years of non-stop use.
What other buyers say
Mark from Ohio mentioned that he bought five of the 8010 fans for his retro PC builds. He said they move plenty of air but noted that the plastic feels a bit flimsy compared to name-brand versions.
Sarah, a 3D printer user, said she ordered a batch of 24V fans for her printer. She noted that while they are quiet, she did have to wait nearly a month for them to arrive.
Final verdict
This 4010 12025 8010 30mm dc 5V 12V 24V Cooling Fan Brushless Motor Case Quiet 40MM 50MM 60MM 70MM 80MM 90MM 120MM for 3D print 2PIN review shows that these are solid, basic parts for simple jobs. They are not fancy or high-tech, but they get the job done.
I recommend buying a few extras just in case one of them arrives with a bad bearing. As long as you are patient with the shipping time, they are a smart way to keep your machines running for very little money.
