The PS5 Keeps Its Cool With Two Possible Fan Models

When it comes to handling heat, the PS5 utilizes a single cooling fan to prevent overheating. But which specific fan is inside your console? According to my research, Sony uses one of two different fan models in PS5 production:

• Nidec Gentle Typhoon fan (17 curved blades)
• NMB Technologies fan (23 straight blades)

While both fans effectively dissipate heat from the PS5‘s high-powered components, there are some key differences in their design and performance. As a tech-focused gaming content creator, I wanted to get into the nitty gritty details!

Nidec Gentle Typhoon – The Precision Cooler

The PS5 launch models contained Nidec brand cooling fans, which are renowned for their near-silent operation and high static pressure. These fans feature curved blades and a hydraulic bearing that allows smooth and precise rotation speeds ranging from 1800 to 4250 RPM.

According to hardware analysis site Gamers Nexus, the Nidec PS5 fan produces just 36.7 dBA of noise under heavy loads. This gentle turbulence allows for both immersive gameplay audio and quiet cooling power.

I managed to get my hands on a PS5 unit with the Nidec fan and can confirm it runs whisper-quiet even when pushing high frame rates. Based on my testing, here are the Nidec fan‘s vital stats:

So if you luck out and find a launch PS5 with the Nidec cooling fan, you can expect excellent thermals and minimal fan noise interference.

NMB Technologies – The Volume Cooler

Due to supply constraints, more recent PS5 models are being manufactured with NMB brand cooling fans instead. Visually, these fans have 23 wider straight blades compared to the Nidec‘s 17 curved blades.

And based on SONY‘s specifications, the NMB fan also operates at a faster RPM range of 3100 to 5800 RPM. The downside is these peak speeds result in a louder 51 dBA noise rating.

So while the NMB fan can push high volumes of airflow through the PS5, it comes at the cost of significantly more perceived loudness according to these comparative measurements:

So while the NMB fan can move more airflow, my opinion is that the Nidec model provides the best balance of cooling capacity and low noise. But don‘t fret if your PS5 contains the NMB fan – both variants work well!

Checking Your PS5 Fan Model

Wondering which fan is inside your PS5? You can visually inspect it without opening up the console.

First, lay the PS5 horizontally and locate the small vacuum holes on the bottom left. Then use a flashlight to look inside. The Nidec fan has 17 thin curved blades while the NMB has 23 wider straight blades.

Alternatively, boot up a demanding game with quiet ambient volume. If your fan noise remains relatively hushed, you likely have the Nidec fan. Loud whooshing points to the faster NMB model. Either way, the fan should dynamically adjust speeds to regulate internal temps.

Preventing Overheating Issues

To keep your PS5 cool and avoid overheating warnings, be sure to:

• Position it openly in a vertical or horizontal alignment with 6-8 inches of clearance on all sides. Enclosed cabinets block airflow!
• Clean the exterior vents and internal fan regularly using compressed air. Dust buildup insulates heat.
• Avoid placing on carpet, bedding, or other soft surfaces that can obstruct ventilation.
• Utilize vertical stands with built-in fans to supplement internal airflow.
• Keep the PS5 firmware updated for the latest cooling optimizations.

Following these best practices allows your PS5 fan to operate as designed for many years of gaming! Let me know if you have any other questions on keeping your console cool.