Three multi-channel fan controllers tested

Scythe Kaze Q 3.5inch Fan Controller

Manufacturer: Scythe
UK Price (as reviewed): £13.00 (inc. VAT)
US Price (as reviewed): $18.99 (ex. Tax)

If you're toying with the idea of exercising some control over your case fans but don't want to spend more than £20 then the Scythe Kaze Q is for you.

There's no funky lighting or LCD display and the black brushed aluminium fascia is devoid of any text apart from a small Scythe logo. However the Kaze Q features four separate channels with an ample 12W available on each of them which should be enough for several high rpm fans if you use splitter cables.

It's a 3.5in device so if your case doesn't have an external 3.5in bay then you'll need a external 5.25in adapter to install it. Included are four 3-pin fan cables so you're able to use it to its full ability right out of the box, assuming your fans have 3-pin connectors too of course. Build quality is solid despite the price although the dials are a little on the wobbly side.



The important thing though is that it's incredibly easy to set up and use. The voltage on each channel can be adjusted between 5V and 12V which should be enough to cover a wide range on most fans without having start up problems. The only downside is that it's 3.5in rather than 5.25in. If you have a dedicated 3.5in external bay in your case then this at least means you don't have to use up a precious 5.25in bay.


However with many cases now offering only 5.25in bays, even though it's available in black or silver, the chances are fitting the Kaze Q might result in a slightly ugly look with the use of a drive bay adapter.