NZXT Kraken 240 RGB - 240mm AIO CPU Liquid Cooler - Customizable 1.54" Square LCD Display for Images, Performance Metrics - High-Performance Pump - 2 x F120 RGB Core Fans - Black
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AI Verdict
A 240mm AIO liquid cooler with a 1.54" 240x240 LCD display, best for users prioritizing visual customization and quiet operation for mid-range CPUs.
This 240mm AIO with its 1.54" LCD display is a strong aesthetic choice for mid-range CPUs (Ryzen 5, i5) where the 2,800 RPM Asetek pump provides sufficient cooling. However, reliance on NZXT CAM software and potential connection issues make it a situational fit for users who prioritize absolute stability over visual customization.
If you need more raw cooling power for high-end CPUs or heavy overclocking, look for a 360mm AIO with a higher radiator surface area.
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Pros
- Customizable 1.54" square LCD display with 240x240 resolution for images, GIFs, and performance metrics.
- High-performance Asetek pump operates up to 2,800 RPM for efficient coolant circulation.
- F120 RGB Core Fans use fluid dynamic bearings, balancing static pressure and airflow.
- Installation is simplified with a single breakout cable from pump to motherboard.
- Pre-applied thermal paste on the cold plate streamlines the setup process.
- NZXT CAM software provides detailed control over fan curves and pump speeds.
Cons
- NZXT CAM software can experience connection issues, leading to loss of cooling control.
- The 1.54" LCD screen is not edge-to-edge, with a visible black frame around the display area.
- Some users report needing to undervolt their CPU to achieve lower idle temperatures (50-60°C).
- The included fans, while effective, may be replaced by users seeking aesthetic uniformity with other system components.
- The default silent fan profile allows CPU temperatures to reach 90°C before full fan speed, which some users find too high.
Dimension Scores
The Asetek Gen 7 pump and 240mm radiator provide sufficient cooling for Ryzen 5/i5 CPUs, with one user reporting 55°C under 4K load.
The pump is reported to be nearly silent even at high RPMs, and fans are audible but manageable with silent profiles.
Constructed with aluminum, copper, metal, plastic, and reinforced rubber tubing, indicating durable materials.
Features a single breakout cable from the pump to the motherboard, simplifying cable routing and reducing clutter.
Best For
- PC builders with Ryzen 5 or Intel i5 CPUs seeking visual flair and system monitoring on the pump head.
- Users who want a quiet system, as the pump is reported to be silent even at high RPMs.
- Enthusiasts who enjoy personalizing their build with animated GIFs or custom images on the cooler.
- Gaming setups where the CPU (e.g., 7800X3D) draws around 60-120W under load.
Not Recommended For
- Overclockers pushing high-end CPUs like Ryzen 9 or Intel i9, which may require a 360mm AIO.
- Users who prefer not to rely on proprietary software (NZXT CAM) for essential cooling control and customization.
- Budget-conscious builders, as similar cooling performance can be achieved with less expensive air coolers or other AIOs.
Watch Out For
- NZXT CAM software can lose connection to the cooler for 5-10 minutes after boot, leaving cooling uncontrolled.
- The LCD display, while customizable, is a 1.54" square with 240x240 resolution, not the larger, higher-resolution screen found on Elite models.
- Some users report CPU idle temperatures between 50-60°C, requiring undervolting for lower readings.
- The maximum fan speed of 1,800 RPM and noise level around 30.6 dBA might be audible under heavy load.
- The default fan curve in NZXT CAM allows CPU temperatures to reach 90°C before fans hit full speed, potentially shortening pump bearing life.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 810074842747 |
| ASIN | B0BY3FJ4WQ |
| Brand | NZXT |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Wattage | 2.4 watts |
| Material | Aluminum, Copper, Metal, Plastic, Rubber |
| Item Weight | 2.87 pounds |
| Noise Level | 33.88 Decibels |
| Manufacturer | Nzxt |
| Cooling Method | Water |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Air Flow Capacity | 78.86 Cubic Feet Per Minute |
| Item model number | RL-KR240-B1 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Product Dimensions | 4.84"L x 10.83"W x 1.18"H |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 2800 RPM |
What Buyers Say
The biggest takeaway is that while the 1.54" LCD screen is a huge draw for personalization, the NZXT CAM software can be a real headache, sometimes losing connection and leaving you without control over your cooling. Many users love the visual aspect and the quiet pump, but some found themselves needing to undervolt their CPUs to get idle temps down. The installation is generally praised for being easy, thanks to pre-applied thermal paste and minimal cabling. However, the fans, while functional, don't always match the aesthetic uniformity some builders are going for.
“Man, this cooler looks sick with my custom GIF, but the CAM software keeps disconnecting and my CPU temps jump, it's so annoying when I'm trying to game.”
Common Praise
- The 1.54" LCD display is highly customizable for showing system metrics, GIFs, or images.
- The pump operates very quietly, even under load.
- Installation is straightforward with a single cable and pre-applied thermal paste.
- Provides effective cooling for mid-range CPUs like Ryzen 5 and i5.
- NZXT CAM software offers extensive control over fan curves and pump speeds.
Common Complaints
- NZXT CAM software frequently loses connection, disrupting cooling control.
- The LCD screen has a noticeable black bezel, not an edge-to-edge display.
- Some users experienced higher idle CPU temperatures, requiring undervolting.
- The included fans are sometimes swapped out by users for aesthetic reasons.
- The default fan curve allows CPU temps to reach 90°C before full fan speed.
Ownership Tips
- The LCD screen, while cool, isn't as vibrant or large as the Elite models, making some content feel cramped.
- You'll spend a fair bit of time in NZXT CAM tweaking fan curves to get the noise and temperature balance you want, as the default can be too permissive on heat.
- The single cable for the pump is a blessing for clean builds, but if CAM acts up, that single point of failure is frustrating.
- The pre-applied thermal paste is convenient for initial setup, but for long-term use or re-installations, you'll want to have your own paste ready.
- The RGB on the fans is bright, but if you have other RGB ecosystems, integrating them perfectly can be a challenge outside of CAM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What CPU sockets does the NZXT Kraken 240 RGB support?
The NZXT Kraken 240 RGB supports a wide range of modern CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1851, 1700, 1200, 115X, and AMD AM4, AM5, and even Threadripper sockets.
Can I display custom images or GIFs on the LCD screen?
Yes, the 1.54" square LCD display with 240x240 resolution can be customized to show animated GIFs, static images, real-time PC performance metrics, currently playing music, or web content using NZXT CAM software.
How quiet is the pump on this cooler?
The high-performance Asetek pump is designed to run quietly, with users reporting it is hardly audible even at high RPMs like 2,500 or 3,000.
Is the installation process complicated?
Installation is considered straightforward due to a single breakout cable connecting the pump to the motherboard and pre-applied thermal paste, with some users completing it in 10-15 minutes.
What are the common issues with NZXT CAM software?
Common issues include losing connection to the cooler after booting, not recognizing the GPU, or displaying CPU temperatures with an offset, which can impact cooling control and monitoring.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at an AIO liquid cooler like this, you're essentially buying a self-contained cooling system for your CPU. It uses liquid to transfer heat away from your processor to a radiator, which then uses fans to dissipate that heat. This is usually more effective than air coolers for higher-wattage CPUs and allows for more compact builds. The '240mm' refers to the radiator size, meaning it fits two 120mm fans, which is a common size for many PC cases.
cooling_method: Water
This means it's a liquid cooler, which typically offers better thermal performance and can be quieter than air coolers, especially for CPUs generating a lot of heat, by moving heat away from the CPU block to a larger radiator.
fan_size: 240mm
This indicates the radiator size, designed to accommodate two 120mm fans. A 240mm radiator is a common choice, offering a balance between cooling performance and compatibility with many PC cases, fitting in top or front mounts.
LCD DISPLAY: 1.54" square LCD display with 240x240 resolution
This is a visual feature on the pump head that allows you to display system information like CPU temperature, fan speeds, or even custom images and GIFs, adding a personalized aesthetic to your PC build.
High-Performance Pump: up to 2,800 RPM
The pump circulates the coolant through the system. A higher RPM generally means more efficient coolant flow and better heat transfer, which directly impacts how effectively your CPU stays cool under load.
Alternatives
If this cooler doesn't fit your needs, consider a 360mm AIO for higher cooling capacity or a more budget-friendly air cooler if the LCD display isn't a priority. Look for models with robust software or less reliance on proprietary ecosystems if CAM issues are a concern.
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