The fan and RGB cables category contains extension cables, splitters and adapters for connecting PC fans and lighting to the motherboard. It suits anyone building or upgrading a computer whose included cable is too short or has too few connectors.
Our range has over 50 products, including cables from Alphacool, Kolink, Delock and InLine.
How to choose fan and RGB cables
Connector type. PC fans connect through a 3-pin header (speed controlled by voltage) or a 4-pin header (PWM). The two fit together physically, but PWM speed control only works with a 4-pin fan, so choose the cable according to the fans you own.
RGB standard. A 12 V RGB connector has 4 pins, while an addressable 5 V ARGB connector has 3 pins. They are not compatible, and plugging a 12 V device into a 5 V header can damage the lighting. Check the markings on the motherboard and on the fans or strips before you buy.
Length and appearance. Measure the length along the route the cable will take inside the case, not in a straight line, because the path behind the motherboard tray is usually much longer. In our range some cables are multicolour, while others are black or silver. In a case with a glass side panel the colour and sleeving are visible, but in a closed case they do not matter.
Splitter or extension. A splitter lets several fans share one motherboard header, whereas an extension cable simply reaches a more distant spot. A single header has a limited current rating, so with many fans it is better to use a splitter powered directly from the power supply.
Brands we carry
- Alphacool: a German manufacturer known for liquid cooling components and their accessories.
- EK Water Blocks: a Slovenian liquid cooling specialist whose cables are mostly meant for its own components.
- Kolink: makes PC cases, power supplies and fans, so its cables match those products.
- Delock and InLine: specialise in internal and external computer cables and adapters.
- Akasa: known for CPU coolers, fans and cooling accessories.
- Phanteks and Thermaltake: produce cases and cooling hardware with their own lighting systems.
- Nanoxia: a German maker recognised for quiet-focused cases and fans.
- StarTech and Fantec: best known for connectivity and computer peripheral solutions.
Also in our range: Exertis Connect.
Frequently asked questions
Can I connect a 3-pin fan to a 4-pin header?
Yes, a 3-pin fan fits physically into a 4-pin header. The fan will run, but it does not support PWM control, so its speed can only be adjusted by changing the voltage, if the motherboard allows it.
What is the difference between RGB and ARGB cables?
An RGB cable is 12 V with 4 pins, and it lights a whole strip or fan in one colour at a time. An ARGB cable is 5 V with 3 pins, and it lets you control each LED separately. The connectors are not compatible, so they should never be mixed up.
How many fans can I connect to one motherboard header?
It depends on the current rating of the header, which the motherboard manual states. On many boards it is around 1 A, which usually covers a few low-power fans. With more fans, a splitter with its own power connection is the safer choice.
Can I extend a fan cable?
Yes, fan extension cables with the same connector at both ends are made for this. Match the pin count to your fan's connector, so that PWM control and the speed signal are not lost.
