They are "cost a lot" optimized

Can't beat Noctua...

Wonder if they are air flow or air pressure optimized..

By the looks of the shape of the fins they seem more optimized for air flow. You can always tell if a fan is air or pressure optimized by the curve in the blades. If the blades are long and thing and there is lots of them its more about air flow. If the blades are thick and more flat then they are pressure optimized. Just look at Corsair AF series VS AP series AF series, look at the blades there are lots of them, they are thin and have a more long straight curve. [SPOILER] http://content.hwigroup.net/images/products/xl/150358/corsair_af120_quiet_edition_twin_pack.jpg[/SPOILER] AP series, again look at the blades there are fewer, and they have a much more curved flat design meaning air is focused down (ie more force is applied to push the air in one direction) [SPOILER] http://cdn.overclock.net/4/44/4490f74e_corsair_sp120_quiet_edition_twin_pack.jpeg[/SPOILER]