Our Verdict
63%
Decent build quality, but let down by poor sound quality and efficiency.
The EK Vardar X3M D-RGB is one chunky, weighty fan. Its large rotor is illuminated by digital RGB lighting with a 3-pin connector, and the translucent fan blades allow the light to diffuse fairly evenly along them. There’s also extra customization available in the form of optional corner sections in a variety of colors. The Vardar X3M D-RGB is also one of the more powerful fans you can buy, with a peak speed of 2,200rpm, although all this comes at a price of $30 / £28 per fan.
EK Vardar X3M D-RGB performance
Check our how we test page for our fan testing procedure.
Digging into the data, this fan’s noise level of 67dBA isn’t great, and like so many other loud fans there’s a distinct whine at full speed, which only peaked at a somewhat disappointing airflow of 1.9m/sec. This was less than the slower-spinning Noctua NF-P12 redux, which was quieter and only marginally better than the Deepcool FC120.
The EK was a little better at 1,000rpm in terms of noise, but its airflow at this fixed speed was comparatively low, resulting in mediocre efficiency compared with the Noctua NF-P12 redux and Deepcool FC120. The EK again failed to impress in our noise-normalized test, with the two aforementioned fans offering more airflow and the similarly-priced be quiet! Silent Wings 4 High Speed completely outclassing it.
EK Vardar X3M D-RGB pros and cons
Pros:
- RGB lighting
- Good build quality
- Reasonable peak airflow
Cons:
- Poor sound quality
- Loud at full speed
- Uncompetitive price
EK Vardar X3M D-RGB specs
The EK Vardar X3M D-RGB specs list is:
| Max speed | 2200rpm |
| Stated noise | 34dBA |
| PWM control | Yes |
| RGB lighting | Yes, 3-pin |
| Accessories | None |
EK Vardar X3M D-RGB price
These premium RGB fans are powerful but demand a high price for what they offer.
Price: Expect to pay $30 / £28
EK Vardar X3M D-RGB review conclusion
The EK Vardar X3M D-RGB has excellent build quality, great RGB lighting, and customization options, as well as being quite eye-catching. However, at this price, it struggles to compete in terms of efficiency and airflow. For our choice of the best fan options, check out our best PC fan list.