Buying Guides                                                   

When shopping for PC fans, you’ll often come across connectors that are either 

. If you don’t fully understand the difference, you might end up with a fan that your motherboard can’t properly control, or find yourself confused about where to plug it in during installation.

This guide will quickly walk you through the differences between 3-pin and 4-pin connectors, explain their functions, and help you decide which type of fan is the better choice for your build.

How to Tell the Difference Between 3-Pin and 4-Pin Fans

It’s actually very simple to distinguish between them. Here are two easy methods:

Look at the fan’s packaging or user manual:

The Difference Between 3-Pin and 4-Pin Fans

These are entry-level fans. The motherboard adjusts the fan speed by changing the voltage, but the level of control is quite limited.

These include an extra control wire that delivers precise PWM signals. This allows the fan to automatically adjust its speed based on system temperature. PWM fans generally provide faster response, smoother control, and quieter operation.

if you’re a performance-focused gamer or power user who values cooling efficiency, quiet operation, and fast thermal response. With PWM functionality, these fans automatically adjust speed for the perfect balance of performance and noise.

if you’re more budget-conscious and your system doesn’t generate heavy heat loads. For basic case airflow, 3-pin fans are a cost-effective and perfectly adequate choice.

When shopping for PC fans, you’ll often come across connectors that are either 3-pin or 4-pin. If you don’t fully understand the difference, you might end up with a fan that your motherboard can’t properly control, or find yourself confused about where to plug it in during installation.



This guide will quickly walk you through the differences between 3-pin and 4-pin connectors, explain their functions, and help you decide which type of fan is the better choice for your build.



How to Tell the Difference Between 3-Pin and 4-Pin Fans

It’s actually very simple to distinguish between them. Here are two easy methods:



Method 1 | Metal Pins





3-pin fans: three metal pins for ground, power, and RPM feedback.



4-pin fans: include an extra pin for PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control.



Method 2 | Check the Product Specs

Look at the fan’s packaging or user manual:





If you see PWM mentioned → it’s a 4-pin fan.



If it only says DC Fan or doesn’t mention PWM → it’s a 3-pin fan.



The Difference Between 3-Pin and 4-Pin Fans

3-Pin Fans

These are entry-level fans. The motherboard adjusts the fan speed by changing the voltage, but the level of control is quite limited.



4-Pin Fans (PWM Fans)

These include an extra control wire that delivers precise PWM signals. This allows the fan to automatically adjust its speed based on system temperature. PWM fans generally provide faster response, smoother control, and quieter operation.







Should I Choose a 3-Pin or 4-Pin Fan?

Choose 4-Pin Fans

if you’re a performance-focused gamer or power user who values cooling efficiency, quiet operation, and fast thermal response. With PWM functionality, these fans automatically adjust speed for the perfect balance of performance and noise.



Choose 3-Pin Fans

if you’re more budget-conscious and your system doesn’t generate heavy heat loads. For basic case airflow, 3-pin fans are a cost-effective and perfectly adequate choice.





Quickly Spot the Difference Between 3-Pin and 4-Pin Fans — Master Fan Control and Avoid Buying Mistakes!

PC Fan: 3-Pin or 4-Pin? Here’s What You Need to Know

In recent years, dual-glass PC cases have gained a lot of popularity. Often nicknamed “ocean view” cases, their name comes from both their design and user experience. With glass panels on two sides, airflow is more restricted compared to traditional cases, meaning additional fans are usually required for proper cooling. The gentle hum of these fans is said to resemble the sound of ocean breezes—hence the term ocean view.

Although both dual- and triple-glass cases may be called “ocean view,” there is a clear distinction between ocean view cases and fish tank cases. Here’s how you can tell them apart:

 cases focus on aesthetics and provide unique ways to display internal components. The decision isn’t about which one is “better,” but rather which design matches your preferences and setup goals.





In recent years, dual-glass PC cases have gained a lot of popularity. Often nicknamed “ocean view” cases, their name comes from both their design and user experience. With glass panels on two sides, airflow is more restricted compared to traditional cases, meaning additional fans are usually required for proper cooling. The gentle hum of these fans is said to resemble the sound of ocean breezes—hence the term ocean view.



Although both dual- and triple-glass cases may be called “ocean view,” there is a clear distinction between ocean view cases and fish tank cases. Here’s how you can tell them apart:



1. Base Design

Ocean View Cases:





The power supply is moved behind the motherboard tray.



The bottom section is dedicated to extra fans, maximizing interior space.

Fish Tank Cases:





The power supply remains in the traditional bottom-mounted position.



This results in a more compact layout compared to ocean view designs.



2. I/O Panel Placement

Ocean View Cases:





For a cleaner look, I/O ports are usually placed on the top panel or tucked away behind the front panel.

Fish Tank Cases:





Because of the power supply compartment, the I/O panel is typically located at the bottom of the front panel for easier access.







Advantages of Ocean View Cases

Visual Appeal





Ideal for showing off hardware and RGB lighting.



Especially popular among gamers and users who want a striking, modern setup.

Easy Maintenance





Dual-glass panels make it simple to check fan performance, lighting, and dust buildup.



Issues can be spotted and addressed quickly.

DIY & Showcase Potential





A great platform for modders and DIY enthusiasts.



Supports creative builds, custom water cooling, and unique component layouts to highlight both style and technical skills.



Both ocean view and fish tank cases focus on aesthetics and provide unique ways to display internal components. The decision isn’t about which one is “better,” but rather which design matches your preferences and setup goals.





How to Distinguish Between Ocean View and Fish Tank Case Designs

PC Case Showdown: Ocean View or Fish Tank?

One of the most common mistakes beginners make is picking a motherboard first—only to realize later that it doesn’t support their CPU. Always remember: 

Choose your CPU first, then the motherboard.

 Intel and AMD use different sockets, and that’s the first big decision every DIY builder needs to make.

To make things easier, we’ve broken motherboards into 

 categories, with recommended CPUs and models for each.

Perfect for web browsing, office tasks, and light use at the lowest cost.

The sweet spot for most gamers and DIY builders—great balance of performance and value.

Top-tier performance with room for future upgrades—built for those who want it all.

When choosing your motherboard, keep three things in mind:

Follow these steps and you’ll find the right motherboard for your build—and set the foundation for your dream PC. 





Building your own PC starts with choosing the right motherboard.






One of the most common mistakes beginners make is picking a motherboard first—only to realize later that it doesn’t support their CPU. Always remember: Choose your CPU first, then the motherboard. Intel and AMD use different sockets, and that’s the first big decision every DIY builder needs to make.



To make things easier, we’ve broken motherboards into Entry-Level, Mid-Range, and High-End categories, with recommended CPUs and models for each.











🔹 Entry-Level Motherboards

Best for:





Basic home PCs



Office and productivity PCs

Key Features:





Simple expansion: usually 2 RAM slots, 1 PCIe slot



No heatsinks on the I/O section (chips are exposed on the PCB)

Recommended CPUs:





Intel: i3 series, some i5 models



AMD: Ryzen 3, some Ryzen 5

Popular Models:





Intel: H series, some entry-level B series (e.g., H610)



AMD: A series (e.g., A520, A620)

👉 Perfect for web browsing, office tasks, and light use at the lowest cost.





🔹 Mid-Range Motherboards

Best for:





Casual gamers



Content creators with moderate workloads

Key Features:





Better expansion: usually 4 RAM slots, multiple PCIe slots



Improved thermal design, some with ARGB lighting

Recommended CPUs:





Intel: i5, i7



AMD: Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7

Popular Models:





Intel: B series (e.g., B660, B760)



AMD: B series (e.g., B550, B650)

👉 The sweet spot for most gamers and DIY builders—great balance of performance and value.





🔹 High-End Motherboards

Best for:





Hardcore gamers



Professional creators (video editing, 3D rendering)



Enthusiasts who want maximum performance

Key Features:





Full expansion options: multiple PCIe slots, USB Type-C, reinforced heatsinks



Overclocking support to unlock full CPU power

Recommended CPUs:





Intel: i7, i9, all K-series



AMD: Ryzen 7, Ryzen 9

Popular Models:





Intel: Z series (e.g., Z790)



AMD: X series (e.g., X670, X670E)

👉 Top-tier performance with room for future upgrades—built for those who want it all.





📝 Final Tips

When choosing your motherboard, keep three things in mind:





Your needs (office work, gaming, or professional use)



Your budget (entry, mid, or high-end)



CPU compatibility (always match Intel or AMD correctly)

Follow these steps and you’ll find the right motherboard for your build—and set the foundation for your dream PC. 





Choosing the Right Motherboard Without the Confusion

Motherboard Basics: The Easy Beginner’s Guide

Acegeek offers high-quality computer cases, cooling solutions, power supplies, and peripherals. Explore our website for top-notch products &amp; accessories.

Blog