Lian Li UNI Fan SL-INF 120 Review: Strong But Pricey
A Reddit user summed it up as simply as possible: "These fans are awesome… quiet at max rpm, look fantastic, and keep the inside of the case really cool." The Lian Li UNI Fan SL-INF 120 RGB Infinity Mirror ARGB Black earns a solid 8.8/10 from aggregated feedback across multiple platforms, blending striking aesthetics with strong thermal performance.
Quick Verdict: Conditional Buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quiet operation even near max RPM | Price considered high by several buyers |
| Eye-catching infinity mirror lighting from all angles | Software (L-Connect) needs improvement |
| Daisy-chain design minimizes cable clutter | Minor quality control issues with corner pads/glue |
| Strong airflow and cooling efficiency | Installation quirks with protective side film |
| High build quality and premium feel | Potential compatibility headaches with ASUS Aura Sync |
| Easy setup with included controller (3-pack) | Reverse blade variant slightly louder |
Claims vs Reality
Lian Li’s marketing promises “stunning multi-layer infinity mirror effects” and “powerful cooling with minimal noise.” Digging into user reports shows this claim is largely accurate on the aesthetics front. A verified buyer on Amazon described the RGB as "harmonious… the mirror effect gives the tower a spectacular look", while Reddit user after Reddit user praised the lighting’s depth compared to standard RGB fans.
On noise, while manufacturer specs list 29–32 dBA, multiple enthusiasts confirm quiet profiles. A Trustpilot reviewer wrote: "Noise level at max rpm is quiet… barely noticeable." Yet, for the reverse blade variant, reality differs—its airflow bump to 63.6 CFM comes with increased noise around 32 dBA. This matters for users seeking absolute silence in intake-heavy builds.
Another claim is simplified cable management through daisy-chaining. LDLC buyer alexisd reported: "Installed and cable managed perfectly thanks to the daisy chain system", but others noted small snags. On Newegg, one customer found corner pads “sag and come off easily”, which complicates keeping the clean look Lian Li advertises.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Amazon, Reddit, LDLC, and Trustpilot, the infinity mirror aesthetic stands out. For streamers and showcase PC builders, this visual appeal is a major win. LDLC’s florian m shared: "The colours are really beautiful, and the mirror effect really gives the tower a spectacular effect"—a sentiment echoed across platforms. Competitive gamers also benefit from performance; Reddit user highlighted "They perform really well and keep the case really cool", with PWM control allowing seamless transitions.
Cable management also garners consistent praise. Fakespot reviewers cited "minimal wires… daisy chain works great", meaning fewer cables to route—a relief for small form factor builders working in tight cases like the O11 Air Mini.
Common Complaints
Pricing is the most consistent sore point. Fakespot analysis shows multiple users calling them “ridiculously priced,” with some hesitant to purchase despite the quality. The reverse blade’s slightly higher noise also comes under scrutiny—radiator top mounts amplify this more than front intakes.
Software issues appear regularly; several users found L-Connect fighting with ASUS Aura Sync, leading to RGB or USB detection problems. One Reddit user diagnosed: "Found out the issue was with the ASUS Armory software", warning builders to double-check software compatibility before buying.
Build quality hiccups, while rare, are noted. A Newegg reviewer experienced “defective glue… pads sag and come off”—not a structural failure but undermining the premium image.
Divisive Features
The reverse blade variant generates mixed reactions: intake noise is lower when radiator-mounted, but some prefer the standard blade for slightly quieter performance overall. Installation quirks like the protective film on side mirrors—some found it frustrating to apply or remove—also split opinions; perfectionists value it for preventing scratches, while others see it as a needless hurdle.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot trends and Fakespot’s analysis show minimal deception and mostly authentic high-quality reviews. Users rarely report functional failure—durability is strong. While no long-term “6 months later” Reddit posts provided data here, the embedded fluid dynamic bearing design has credibility in the PC building community for longevity.
Customer service appears proactive. One Newegg buyer with adhesive issues noted Lian Li was "working on sending me another set of fans", suggesting warranty support is responsive.
Alternatives
The nearest in-brand alternative mentioned by users is the AL120 series. One user compared directly: "Look slightly better than the AL120… cable cleanliness keeps me coming back to Lian Li", though some favored AL120 for pad robustness. Outside Lian Li, mainstream RGB fans from Corsair or NZXT may undercut price but lose the infinity mirror edge—most users here chose SL-INF for its unique lighting depth, despite the premium.
Price & Value
On eBay, triple packs with controller hover around $82.99–$189, depending on seller, with singles near $83. Amazon lists the triple + reverse blade combo at $107.72 (8% off list). Resale holds decently—partly due to niche demand for matching setups. Community advice leans toward buying 3-packs for better per-fan value and controller inclusion; single fans without controller require extra spending.
FAQ
Q: Do I need the controller for these fans to work?
A: Functionally, they can connect via motherboard PWM, but for full lighting control and daisy-chain convenience, the controller (included in 3-packs) is recommended. Singles come without.
Q: Are the reverse blade fans louder?
A: Slightly—reverse blades can reach 32 dBA vs about 29 for standard, though radiator intake setups may reduce perceived wind noise.
Q: Will they work with ASUS Aura Sync?
A: Yes in principle, but several owners report software conflicts with L-Connect. Disable Aura Sync or ensure L-Connect takes primary control for stability.
Q: How many can I chain together?
A: Up to 4 fans per cluster, with controllers supporting 16 fans in total for large builds.
Q: Is installation tricky?
A: Straightforward for most; daisy-chain reduces cables, but be careful with adhesive pads and protective film to preserve appearance.
Final Verdict
Buy if: You’re building a showcase PC where aesthetics matter as much as cooling, or need cable-clean setups for compact cases. Enthusiasts integrating into high-end builds will appreciate the RGB depth and airflow performance.
Avoid if: You’re on a tight budget or need absolute silence without RGB complexity—premium price and software quirks may frustrate.
Pro tip from community: If using for intake on visible panels, consider the reverse blade for cleaner look; just expect slightly more noise.
