PC RGB Controller
Running out of ARGB headers, or mixing fans and strips from different brands? This guide covers the hardware side of PC lighting — 5V ARGB vs 12V RGB headers, when a passive PC RGB splitter is enough, when you need a powered 5V ARGB hub, and what a dedicated RGB hardware controller adds.
A PC RGB controller is the hardware that delivers lighting data and power to your fans, strips and other lit components. Depending on the build, that job is handled by a motherboard header, a passive splitter, a powered hub or a dedicated controller module.
Addressable RGB (ARGB) uses a 5V 3-pin connector (5V, data, ground) and can set each LED individually. Standard RGB uses a 12V 4-pin connector (12V, R, G, B) and shows one color across the device at a time.
A splitter is a passive Y-cable that copies one header's signal to several devices. It is the simplest way to add devices, but every connected device shows the same effect.
A powered hub takes one ARGB signal input and distributes it to multiple ports, drawing LED power from the power supply (typically via SATA) instead of the motherboard header.
A dedicated controller module drives lighting on its own outputs instead of relying on motherboard headers — helpful when your board has too few headers or you combine devices from different brands. Before buying, confirm your fans and strips appear on a supported devices list. Skydimo software supports Windows, macOS and Linux.
Splitters, hubs and controllers all solve the same problem — more lit devices than headers — but they handle signal and power differently. Use the comparisons below to choose the right hardware for your build.
Whatever you choose, match the voltage (5V ARGB or 12V RGB) and stay within the current rating of the header or hub you connect to.