Lian Li UNI Fan SL-INF 120 RGB Review: 9/10 Verdict
When a fan earns consistent 4.7 to 5-star ratings across multiple platforms, expectations rise—Lian Li UNI Fan SL-INF 120 RGB Infinity Mirror ARGB Black scores an impressive 9/10 from aggregated real-world feedback, praised for its stunning aesthetics, quiet performance, and flexible installation options.
Quick Verdict: Yes for RGB enthusiasts who value daisy-chain cable management and premium build, conditional for those on tight budgets or needing flawless software.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Brilliant, vibrant RGB with infinity mirror effect | Pricey compared to alternatives |
| Quiet operation, even at higher RPMs | Software occasionally glitchy or lacking instructions |
| Easy daisy-chain installation | Some corner pads lose adhesion over time |
| Strong airflow and effective cooling | RGB brightness may require fine-tuning |
| Premium build quality with aluminum trim | Controller absent in single packs |
| Works well with reverse blade variants | Requires USB splitter in certain builds |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing materials promise “multi-layer infinity mirror lighting visible from any angle” and “whisper-quiet cooling up to 1500–2100 RPM.” Digging into user reports confirms the visual impact is genuine. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: “The RGB is absolutely stunning! Love the overall design,” with multiple Reddit users echoing similar praise for the “bright and vibrant colors.”
Noise claims mostly hold—Reddit user feedback described the max RPM as “barely noticeable,” though some acknowledged a small rise in wind noise when reverse blade variants were installed as intake. Lian Li advertises “easy daisy-chain wiring,” and this delivers in reality; PCPartPicker reviews repeatedly cite wiring as “the best part,” vastly simplifying installation compared to traditional fans.
Where expectations fall slightly short is software control. While marketed as precise and customizable via L-Connect 3, several users struggled. One PCPartPicker reviewer said, “the software is still glitchy… controllers themselves don’t come with much instruction,” and had to reseat connections multiple times. This indicates that while the RGB control is capable, onboarding could be smoother.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Reddit, Trustpilot, LDLC, and PCPartPicker, aesthetics top the praise list. The infinity mirror layered effects are repeatedly described as “spectacular” and “absolutely beautiful in this case.” LDLC customer florian m highlighted how “the colours are really beautiful, and the mirror effect really gives the tower a spectacular effect.”
Quiet performance is consistently valued by gamers and creators. On PCPartPicker, one builder wrote: “quiet, customizable, good RGB, and great software,” while another using ten fans noted they were “surprisingly quiet & keep my PC cool enough.” This low-noise trait benefits content creators during recording or streaming, where microphone pickup is a concern.
Ease of installation also wins broad applause. The daisy-chain mechanism eliminates multiple cables; Reddit users and LDLC reviewers repeatedly mention “only one cable also makes them easier to store neatly” and “delivered on time and installed… cable managed perfectly thanks to the daisy chain system.” For complex multi-fan builds, this feature reduces clutter dramatically.
Common Complaints
The price is the recurring sticking point. PCPartPicker users called them “fk-ing expensive” and “on the pricier side,” with Fakespot reviewers admitting “they are ridiculously priced… I almost did not want to buy them.” While these complaints don’t negate performance or looks, budget-conscious builders need to weigh the cost-per-fan carefully.
Minor hardware flaws surface in multiple threads—pads on corners sometimes fail their adhesive grip. One Reddit reviewer reported “pads sag and come off easily… one set has defective glue.” This impacts the premium feel and could cause vibration damping issues over long-term use.
Software limitations frustrate a subset of users. RGB customization works but lacks clear documentation in some kits. A PCPartPicker reviewer described “finding any [instruction] online is tough” and having to troubleshoot for over an hour when lighting failed post-install. For users new to Lian Li’s ecosystem, the absence of straightforward setup guides can be a bottleneck.
Divisive Features
Brightness levels and color saturation split opinions. Some find the LEDs “bright and vibrant” without needing tweaks, while others feel colors are “faded and dim until you find the right shade,” requiring manual adjustment to achieve desired “pop.” This suggests LED output is sufficient but dependent on ambient light conditions and personal taste.
Reverse blade variants earn praise for cleaner aesthetics in intake positions and reduced wind noise, but they operate slightly louder overall and not all buyers see the benefit unless their case’s design demands reversed airflow.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot and LDLC comments point to reliable build quality and positive seller interactions. LDLC user alexisd applauded “absolutely perfect… cable managed perfectly thanks to the daisy chain system,” indicating satisfaction with the hardware out of the box.
Where reliability dips is in software longevity and small physical components like adhesive pads. Some Reddit reports mention Lian Li’s willingness to replace defective sets, reinforcing after-sales support as proactive.
Long-term owners—six months or more—report consistent cooling performance with no mechanical failures. This suggests the embedded fluid dynamic bearings live up to the “durability and longevity” marketing promise.
Alternatives
Multiple users compare directly to Lian Li AL120 fans. Reddit’s top critical review said: “Look slightly better than the AL120… cable cleanliness is what keeps me coming back,” but noted adhesive pad issues not present in their AL120s. Those who prioritize absolute reliability over visual flair may lean AL120; RGB enthusiasts generally prefer SL-INF's infinity effect.
Price & Value
Community consensus labels the SL-INF as expensive but worth it for showpiece builds. eBay listings put three-packs with controllers around $83–$89 USD, while PicClick aggregates prices from $28 for singles to $155 for larger kits. Price history apps record values between ₹3033 and ₹3804 (~$36–$46 USD) for single reverse blades in India, showing steady demand-driven pricing.
Buying tips from PCPartPicker users include waiting for bundle deals and ensuring controllers are included for first-time setups—single pack buyers without controllers face additional costs.
FAQ
Q: Do I need a controller for the single fan pack?
A: Yes, unless integrating into an existing SL-INF setup with a controller. Many buyers recommend purchasing the triple pack initially to avoid extra costs.
Q: Are these fans really quiet at high speeds?
A: Most users find them quiet for their performance level. Some wind noise is noticeable at max RPM, especially on reverse blades, but generally “barely noticeable” per Reddit reviews.
Q: How easy is installation for multi-fan builds?
A: Very easy with the daisy-chain system. Users highlight “no need to wire individually,” drastically cutting build time and cable clutter.
Q: Does the RGB look dim in bright rooms?
A: Possibly. Some users suggest tweaking colors in L-Connect 3 to achieve full vibrancy, particularly in well-lit environments.
Q: Can these fans sync with motherboard controls?
A: Yes, L-Connect 3 allows MB control for fan speeds, though some integration quirks exist with certain boards, like Asus Armoury conflicts reported by Fakespot reviewers.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re an RGB enthusiast building in a showcase case—especially with glass panels—who values both aesthetics and solid cooling. Avoid if you’re budget-sensitive or unwilling to troubleshoot potential software hiccups. Pro tip from PCPartPicker veterans: “Get the triple pack for your first purchase to ensure you have the hub and controller, then expand with singles as needed.”
