Different bearing types, what’s the best one? Worst one? Vertical, horizontal, does it matter?
Note: Positioning can affect the longevity, but overall, fans will last a good amount as long as they are cleaned regularly. It also depends on the environment they are in. The more dust, the worst.
Fluid/Hydraulic bearing
Fluid bearing has some mineral oil to limit friction, creates a cushion between the shaft and motor hub. Most common ones. Dust can get in, creating friction. Mineral oil can leak a tiny amount, creating more friction, and rattle.
Orientation: worst is when the hub points up (fan blades on the top). Vertical isn’t great.
Ball bearing
Sealed bearing. Most expensive, most durable.
Happy in any position.
Sleeve bearing
Kinda hybrid between fluid bearing and ball bearing. Uses oil between 2 sleeves. Dust can get in, creating friction. Mineral oil can leak a tiny amount, creating more friction, and rattle.
Happiest in horizontal position.
Rifle bearing
Similar as fluid bearing. It has some mineral oil to limit friction. It has rifling inside pulling oil into the bearing when it’s spinning. Dust can get in, creating friction. Mineral oil can leak a tiny amount, creating more friction, and rattle.
Orientation: worst is when the hub points up (fan blades on the top).
Maglev
Probably the best since it uses magnetic levitation, which can’t fail. Is not affected by dust (until a certain point of course). Probably the most expensive.
Happy in any position.
Examples
- Corsair LL120/QL120 : fluid bearing
- Cooler Master MF120R : rifle bearing
- Noctua: self-stabilising oil-pressure bearing