Push vs Pull vs Push Pull for Radiators and Heatsinks Linus Tech Tips

In this Linus Tech Tips quick explainer, the host investigates the nuances between push, pull, and push-pull fan configurations for radiators and heatsinks. He starts by outlining the two basic setups, showing examples of fans pushing air through the radiator and fans pulling air through, then introduces the push-pull arrangement which combines both approaches to increase resistance handling and apparent pressure. The core takeaway is that radiator cooling performance between push and pull on two matching fans is effectively similar within margin of error, while push-pull can yield higher static pressure but at the cost of more noise and complexity. Linus argues that for most users, running fans in pull is simpler and often more practical, especially since many fans optimized for pressure (like Corsair SPs, Noctua F series, Scythe Typhoons, and SilverStone Air Penetrators) can deliver strong performance without the need for a second set of fans on the opposite side. He emphasizes that push-pull is not strictly necessary and that using one well-chosen, pressure-optimized fan on the radiator can be more efficient and quieter than a push-pull arrangement with non-optimized fans. The video also covers maintenance considerations, noting that pull configurations are much easier to clean because dust can be removed without dismantling the entire setup, a practical benefit highlighted with live examples from his own test bench. Throughout, Linus balances advice with practical caveats, such as the limitation that you cannot simply speed up air through an open environment and the importance of selecting high-quality, pressure-friendly fans for best results. The closing remarks invite viewers to subscribe for more hardware insights and to stay tuned for further testing, unboxings, and reviews while keeping the tone approachable and humorous, even when dust and cat hair are involved.

Topics · technology · computer_hardware · cooling · reviews