GPU Low profile GPU fan - low noise adapters

[Lone]

For anyone frustrated with their noisy low profile GPU fans, this may be an option for you. I used some spare Noctua low-noise adapters, and some connectors from Digi-Key to build a 2-pin to 2-pin low noise adapter, and a 4-pin to 2-pin low-noise adapter (to replace stock fans). I used the Noctua low-noise adapters because I happened to have a bunch of them not being used.

Here are the parts I used:

• Noctua low-noise adapters for wiring and 4-pin connector
• Male JST connector
• Female JST connector
• Contacts

First impressions:

• 3-pin to 2-pin low noise adapter hooked up to a Akasa 80x10.8 mm fan was very quiet.
• 2-pin to 2-pin low noise adapter hooked up to stock MSI GTX 1050 Ti LP fans helped, but with the slower spinning fans, the buzzing became even more noticeable.

Thermal performance (FurMark GPU stress test, about 8 minutes each, ambient 22°C):

Stock Fans, Open Case:
Temp max: 62°C
Fans: 53%

Stock Fans, Open Case, With Low Noise Adapter (LNA):
Temp max: 67°C
Fans: 55%[1]

1x Akasa 80x10mm Fan, Open Case, With Low Noise Adapter (LNA):
Temp max: 71°C
Fans: 57%[1]

Note 1: Reported fan speed percentage, does not change when LNA is used, even though fans are spinning slower.

 

[A415Hz]

Would dual Akasa 80x10mm Fans possible? (If so, does it make sense to do it?)

 

[Lone]

I think it would be possible. You could also attach a second fan to the motherboard case fan header. More testing would be needed to see if it made sense or not.