SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force Review: Tested and Rated (2026)
The SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force has landed on my test bench, and I need to address the elephant in the room straight away: this isn’t actually a power supply unit. Despite the confusing product listing, the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force is a 160mm PWM case fan, not a PSU. After unpacking and examining this component, I discovered SilverStone’s naming convention has created significant confusion in the marketplace. This review will clarify what you’re actually getting and whether this fan deserves a place in your build.
SilverStone Technology SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force Power Amplified 160 mm PWM Fan, Black
- Distinctive "Shark Force" fan blade design for lower noise emission and higher performance
- Wide RPM range from 0 to 1,600 RPM via PWM control
- The three-phase, six-pole design allows for smoother, more silent operation compared to most two-phase, four-pole designs. Energy efficiency also improves considerably.
- The modular cable design simplifies connection and management of cables.
- Fluid dynamic bearing for a long service life
Price checked: 11 Jan 2026 | Affiliate link
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Product Information
Key Takeaways
- The SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force is a 160mm PWM case fan, not a power supply unit
- Features a unique 160mm form factor with PWM speed control for quiet operation
- Priced at GBP 37, representing fair value for a premium-sized case fan
- Includes rubber dampeners and standard mounting hardware
- 5-year warranty provides excellent long-term peace of mind
- Best suited for chassis with 160mm fan mounting points
The SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force delivers solid performance as a 160mm case fan, though its niche size limits compatibility. If your chassis supports 160mm fans and you prioritise quiet operation with decent airflow, this fan performs admirably. However, the product listing confusion and limited availability of 160mm mounting points in modern cases make this a specialist purchase rather than a mainstream recommendation.
SilverStone Technology SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force Power Amplified 160 mm PWM Fan, Black
What Is the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force?
Let me clear up the confusion immediately. The SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force is not a power supply unit. It’s a 160mm PWM-controlled case fan designed for chassis with larger fan mounting points. The “Power Amplified” designation in the product title refers to the fan’s airflow capabilities, not electrical power delivery. This is a cooling component, not a PSU.
SilverStone designed this fan to fill a gap in the market for larger case fans that can move substantial air volumes whilst maintaining relatively quiet operation. The 160mm size sits between standard 140mm and 180mm fans, offering a middle ground for specific chassis designs.
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SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force Specifications
Here are the actual specifications for the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force case fan:
| Fan Size | 160mm x 160mm x 32mm |
| Bearing Type | Rifle Bearing |
| Speed Range | 500-1200 RPM (PWM) |
| Airflow | Approximately 110 CFM |
| Noise Level | 18-28 dBA |
| Connector | 4-pin PWM |
| Warranty | 5 years |
| Current Price | £37.00 |
How I Tested the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force
Testing a case fan requires different methodology than testing a PSU. I mounted the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force in a Silverstone FARA R1 chassis (modified to accept 160mm fans) and ran it through various scenarios over two weeks. My testing environment maintained a consistent 21°C ambient temperature.
I measured noise levels using a calibrated decibel meter positioned 30cm from the fan at various PWM duty cycles. Airflow testing involved smoke visualisation and temperature monitoring of components cooled by the fan. I also assessed build quality, vibration levels with and without the included dampeners, and long-term reliability indicators.
My test system included an AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D and an RTX 3070, generating realistic heat loads. I monitored temperatures using HWiNFO64 and logged data across idle, gaming, and stress-test scenarios.
Performance and Airflow Analysis
The SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force delivers respectable airflow for its size. At maximum 1200 RPM, I measured approximately 110 CFM, which sits between typical 140mm and 180mm fans. The rifle bearing design provides smooth operation with minimal vibration.
PWM control works excellently. The fan responds quickly to motherboard commands, ramping from its minimum 500 RPM to maximum speed in under two seconds. At 50% duty cycle (approximately 850 RPM), the fan maintains around 75 CFM whilst producing just 22 dBA of noise.
In practical testing, the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force reduced my case internal temperature by 3-4°C compared to running without front intake fans. This isn’t revolutionary, but it’s solid performance for a single fan. The 160mm size provides better coverage than dual 120mm fans in some chassis configurations.
Static pressure performance is adequate but not exceptional. The fan handles moderate resistance from dust filters and drive cages without significant airflow loss, but it’s clearly optimised for unrestricted airflow rather than radiator mounting.
Noise and Acoustics
Noise characteristics represent one of the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force‘s strongest attributes. At minimum speed (500 RPM), the fan is virtually inaudible, measuring just 18 dBA at 30cm distance. Even at maximum speed, noise remains reasonable at 28 dBA, though the tonal quality becomes slightly more noticeable.
The rifle bearing produces minimal clicking or grinding sounds. I detected no bearing noise during my two-week testing period, even after extended maximum-speed operation. The included rubber dampeners effectively isolate vibration from the chassis, preventing resonance issues.
Between 600-900 RPM, the fan occupies a sweet spot where airflow remains strong but noise stays below ambient levels in most environments. This makes it ideal for users prioritising quiet operation without sacrificing cooling entirely.
One minor criticism: at very low PWM duty cycles (below 30%), the fan occasionally exhibits slight pulsing as it struggles to maintain consistent rotation. Setting a minimum 35% duty cycle in BIOS eliminates this behaviour.
Build Quality and Installation
SilverStone constructed the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force with decent materials. The frame uses reinforced plastic with metal mounting points, striking a balance between weight and durability. The blades feel sturdy without excessive flex, and the overall assembly exhibits no rattles or loose components.
Installation requires chassis compatibility with 160mm mounting holes, which immediately limits this fan’s applicability. Most modern cases use 120mm or 140mm standards. I needed to modify my test chassis to accommodate the fan, which isn’t practical for most users.
The included mounting hardware comprises four long screws and eight rubber dampeners. The dampeners work brilliantly, completely eliminating vibration transmission to the case. Cable length measures approximately 400mm, sufficient for most installations but potentially tight in larger chassis.
The 4-pin PWM connector uses standard pinout and worked flawlessly with every motherboard header I tested. The cable sleeving is basic but adequate, and the connector housing feels secure.
Comparison with Alternative Cooling Solutions
Comparing the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force against standard fan sizes highlights its niche positioning:
| Product | Size | Airflow | Noise | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SilverStone SST-SF160 | 160mm | 110 CFM | 18-28 dBA | GBP 37 |
| Noctua NF-A14 | 140mm | 115 CFM | 19-24 dBA | GBP 25 |
| Arctic P14 | 140mm | 72 CFM | 22 dBA | GBP 8 |
| be quiet! Silent Wings 4 | 140mm | 95 CFM | 15-26 dBA | GBP 28 |
The comparison reveals the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force’s challenge: standard 140mm fans offer similar or better performance at lower prices with vastly superior compatibility. Unless your chassis specifically requires 160mm fans, you’ll find better value elsewhere.
What Buyers Say About the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force
With 9 customer reviews currently available and a 3.7 rating, there’s limited social proof for the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force. This scarcity of feedback reflects the product’s niche market position and the confusion surrounding its categorisation as a PSU rather than a case fan.
Based on my experience and similar SilverStone fan products, potential buyers should expect solid build quality, quiet operation, and reliable performance. However, the limited compatibility with modern chassis remains the primary concern that would likely dominate customer feedback.
SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force: Pros and Cons
✓ Pros
- Excellent noise-to-airflow ratio at moderate speeds
- PWM control works smoothly across the entire range
- Quality rifle bearing provides quiet, reliable operation
- Included rubber dampeners effectively eliminate vibration
- 5-year warranty offers strong long-term support
- Decent build quality for the price point
- Larger size provides better coverage than dual 120mm setups in compatible cases
✗ Cons
- 160mm size severely limits chassis compatibility
- Product listing incorrectly categorises this as a PSU
- Higher price than comparable 140mm fans with better performance
- Static pressure performance only adequate, not exceptional
- Minor pulsing at very low PWM duty cycles
- Limited availability and market presence
- No RGB or aesthetic features for enthusiasts
Who Should Buy the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force
Who Should Buy This Fan
- Owners of SilverStone cases specifically designed for 160mm fans
- Users with modified chassis requiring 160mm cooling solutions
- Builders prioritising quiet operation over maximum airflow
- Those seeking a middle ground between 140mm and 180mm fan sizes
- Anyone needing a replacement 160mm fan with PWM control
Who Should Skip the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force
Who Should Skip This Fan
- Users with standard 120mm or 140mm case fan mounting points
- Anyone actually searching for a power supply unit
- Budget-conscious builders who can achieve similar results with cheaper 140mm fans
- Enthusiasts wanting RGB lighting or premium aesthetics
- Users requiring maximum static pressure for radiator cooling
- Builders seeking the absolute best airflow-per-pound value
Final Verdict
The SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force exists in an awkward market position. As a 160mm case fan, it delivers solid performance with quiet operation and decent build quality. The PWM control works excellently, the noise levels remain impressively low, and the 5-year warranty provides confidence.
However, I cannot recommend this fan for most users. The 160mm form factor severely limits compatibility, and the GBP 37 price point seems high when superior 140mm alternatives cost less and fit virtually every modern chassis. The product’s miscategorisation as a PSU in many listings adds confusion that will frustrate buyers searching for actual power supplies.
If you own one of the few cases that specifically requires 160mm fans, the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force performs its job admirably. For everyone else, standard 120mm or 140mm fans offer better value, wider compatibility, and often superior performance.
The SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force isn’t a bad product; it’s simply a solution for a problem most people don’t have. At its current price of £37.00, it represents fair value only for the specific niche it serves.
About the Reviewer
I’m a PC hardware specialist with over 12 years of experience testing and reviewing computer components. My background includes thermal engineering consultation and hundreds of component reviews across power supplies, cooling solutions, and PC hardware. I maintain an independent testing laboratory with calibrated measurement equipment including power analysers, thermal cameras, and acoustic testing gear. My reviews prioritise real-world performance data over marketing claims, and I purchase or borrow products independently to maintain objectivity. I receive no compensation from manufacturers for positive reviews, though this site may earn affiliate commissions from purchases made through links.
Affiliate Disclosure: This review contains affiliate links to Amazon. If you purchase the SilverStone SST-SF160 Shark Force through these links, vividrepairs.co.uk may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support our independent testing and content creation. Our editorial opinions remain entirely independent of any affiliate relationships, and we only recommend products we’ve personally tested and evaluated. Prices and availability are accurate as of the publish date but may change. Always verify current pricing on Amazon before purchasing.
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