If there is one component I include with almost every enthusiast computer build, it would be a dedicated fan controller. Despite motherboard manufacturers recently opening up control for fan speeds with software such as Gigabyte's EasyTune suite, there is little that can replace the versatility and ease of control from the flick of a switch or turn of a knob. Over the years, many cooling manufacturers have stepped to the plate to provide their own versions of this class of peripheral. We've seen solutions festooned with bright LEDs and colored screens while others adhere to designs as simple as a knob on a PCI bracket or plastic enclosure.

Known for its lineup of heatsinks, cases, and mice, Thermaltake has been in the PC component cooling business for years. Today, we will be taking a look at its newest multi-fan controller, the Thermaltake Commander F5. Designed to fit a front panel 5.25" bay in your rig, it features fan speed sliders controlling five individual 8W channels, a honeycombed mesh design, and indicator LEDs for an extra bling factor.