NZXT Kraken 240 - RL-KN-240-B1-240mm AIO CPU Liquid Cooler - Customizable 1.54" Square LCD Display for Images, Performance Metrics and More - High-Performance Pump - 2 x F120P Fans - Black
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AI Verdict
This is a 240mm AIO liquid cooler with a 1.54-inch 240x240 resolution LCD display, 2 F120P static pressure fans, and an Asetek pump operating up to 2,800 RPM, designed for users prioritizing visual cu
This 240mm AIO is a situational fit because its 2,800 RPM Asetek pump and F120P static pressure fans offer strong cooling for modern CPUs, but the experience is heavily dependent on the stability of the NZXT CAM software. If CAM works, the 1.54-inch LCD display adds a unique personalization element; if not, you're dealing with potential control issues.
If software reliability is a major concern, look for AIOs that offer hardware control options or are known for more stable companion software.
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Pros
- The 1.54-inch square LCD display with 240x240 resolution and 300 cd/m² brightness allows for custom GIFs, images, and real-time PC performance metrics via NZXT CAM software.
- The Asetek pump operates up to 2,800 RPM, ensuring efficient coolant circulation.
- F120P Static Pressure Fans with fluid dynamic bearings provide an optimal balance of high static pressure and airflow for cooling.
- Installation is simplified with a single breakout cable from the pump to the motherboard.
- Includes pre-applied NZXT High-Performance Thermal Paste and compatible mounting brackets for Intel (LGA 1700/1200/115X/1851) and AMD (AM4, AM5) processors.
- The rubber tubing is reinforced with nylon-braided sleeves for durability.
Cons
- NZXT CAM software can be unreliable, with users reporting connection loss to the cooler and inability to control fan/pump speeds after booting.
- Some users experience the cooler not being recognized by CAM software, leading to fans running at maximum speed.
- The 1.54-inch LCD display, while customizable, can feel small, with some users finding content gets cut off or is effectively useless for precise temperature monitoring due to offsets.
- There are reports of reliability issues, including air blocks in the system and pump failures after a few years of use.
- Cables can be difficult to manage and keep out of sight for some users.
Dimension Scores
The Asetek pump operates at up to 2,800 RPM, and F120P static pressure fans provide effective heat dissipation, keeping CPUs like the i9-13900k below 65°C under heavy gaming loads.
The F120P fans use fluid dynamic bearings for minimal noise, and the pump is designed for quiet operation, with some users reporting quiet performance during everyday tasks.
It features reinforced rubber tubing with nylon-braided sleeves and a copper block, but some users have reported pump failures or air blocks after a period of use.
The single breakout cable from the pump to the motherboard simplifies initial wiring, but some users still find managing the cables to be a challenge for a clean look.
Best For
- PC builders who want to display system metrics or personalized GIFs directly on their CPU cooler.
- Gaming or creator PCs needing effective thermal management for modern CPUs.
- Users who prefer a streamlined installation process with a single cable from pump to motherboard.
- Systems requiring compatibility with current Intel (LGA 1700/1200/115X/1851) and AMD (AM4, AM5) sockets.
Not Recommended For
- Users who prioritize absolute software stability and seamless control without potential troubleshooting.
- Those who need a cooler with a larger, more detailed display for monitoring.
- Budget-conscious builders who don't need an LCD display and prefer a simpler, potentially more reliable cooling solution.
Watch Out For
- The NZXT CAM software frequently loses connection to the cooler after PC boot, leaving users unable to control fan or pump speeds, sometimes resulting in fans stuck at maximum RPM.
- Some users report the LCD display showing CPU temps with an offset, making it inaccurate for actual temperature monitoring.
- There are instances of the cooler failing to cool the CPU effectively, with reports of CPU over-temperature errors and system shutdowns, sometimes due to incorrect installation screws or pump issues.
- A few users have experienced pump failures or air blocks within the system after extended use, some within a year or two.
- The single breakout cable, while simplifying initial setup, can still contribute to cable clutter for users aiming for a minimalist build.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 810074842686 |
| ASIN | B0BY3HNXMS |
| Brand | NZXT |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Wattage | 12 watts |
| Material | Rubber |
| Item Weight | 2.87 pounds |
| Noise Level | 30.6 Decibels |
| Manufacturer | Nzxt |
| Cooling Method | Water |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Item model number | RL-KN240-B1 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Product Dimensions | 10.83"L x 1.18"W x 4.84"H |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 1800 RPM |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 05056547202600 |
What Buyers Say
The biggest headache for users seems to be the NZXT CAM software, with frequent reports of it losing connection to the cooler, leaving fan and pump controls unresponsive and sometimes stuck at maximum RPM. Despite these software frustrations, many users praise its cooling performance, noting CPU temperatures staying low even under heavy loads. The customizable LCD display is a major draw, though its small size means some content can feel cut off. Installation is generally straightforward, but cable management can still be a minor annoyance.
“Man, this thing looks sick with my GIF on it, but seriously, NZXT, fix your damn software! My fans sound like a jet engine when CAM decides to take a nap.”
Common Praise
- Keeps CPU temperatures low, with an i9-13900k staying under 65°C during heavy gaming.
- The 1.54-inch LCD display is customizable with images, GIFs, and system info.
- Installation is straightforward due to the single breakout cable and pre-applied thermal paste.
- Runs quietly during normal operation and everyday tasks.
- Visually appealing and adds a personalized touch to PC builds.
Common Complaints
- NZXT CAM software frequently disconnects, preventing fan and pump control.
- Fans can get stuck at maximum speed when CAM software loses connection.
- The LCD display can show inaccurate CPU temperature readings due to offsets.
- Reports of pump failures or air blocks developing after some time.
- The small 1.54-inch screen can make some displayed content feel cramped or cut off.
Ownership Tips
- After a few weeks, the initial excitement of the LCD display can wear off if CAM software issues persist.
- You might find yourself frequently restarting CAM or your PC to regain control over the cooler.
- The pre-applied thermal paste is convenient for initial setup, but you might consider reapplying if you troubleshoot cooling issues.
- The reinforced tubing feels durable, but long-term reliability of the pump is a recurring concern for some users.
- The cooler's performance is heavily tied to the software, so expect to spend some time configuring and potentially troubleshooting CAM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What CPU sockets is the Kraken 240 compatible with?
It's compatible with Intel LGA 1851, 1700, 1200, and 115X sockets, as well as AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets.
Can I display custom images or GIFs on the LCD screen?
Yes, the 1.54-inch square LCD display supports custom images, animated GIFs, real-time performance metrics, and even music integration through the NZXT CAM software.
How quiet are the fans?
The F120P Static Pressure Fans use fluid dynamic bearings and are designed for powerful cooling with minimal noise. The pump itself is also designed for quiet operation.
Is the installation process complicated?
Installation is designed to be simple with a single breakout cable connecting the pump to the motherboard. It also comes with pre-applied thermal paste.
What is the refresh rate and brightness of the LCD display?
The LCD display has a 30 Hz refresh rate and a brightness of 300 cd/m².
What if the NZXT CAM software doesn't work correctly?
Some users report issues with CAM losing connection, which can prevent control over fan and pump speeds. This might require troubleshooting or contacting NZXT support.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at an AIO liquid cooler like this, you're essentially getting a self-contained water cooling loop for your CPU. It's designed to pull heat away from your processor more efficiently than air coolers, especially for high-performance CPUs. The radiator size, like this 240mm, dictates how much surface area there is to dissipate heat, and the fans push air through it. The pump circulates the coolant, and in this case, you're also paying for a customizable screen on the pump block.
cooling_method: Water
This means it uses liquid circulating through tubes and a radiator to cool your CPU, which can be more effective than traditional air coolers for hotter processors, like a car's engine cooling system.
fan_size: 240mm (2 x F120P Fans)
This refers to the size of the radiator and the two 120mm fans attached to it. A larger radiator (like a 360mm) generally offers more cooling potential, but a 240mm is a common size that fits in many cases and provides a good balance for most gaming CPUs.
LCD Display: 1.54" square, 240x240 resolution, 30 Hz refresh rate
This is a visual feature that lets you show system stats, images, or GIFs directly on your CPU block. Think of it like a tiny, dedicated screen for your PC's vitals or a bit of flair, but don't expect smartphone-level smoothness with a 30 Hz refresh rate.
High-Performance Pump: Asetek, up to 2,800 RPM
The pump is the heart of the AIO, pushing the coolant. A higher RPM generally means more efficient circulation and better cooling, similar to how a stronger car engine can move more fluid through its cooling system.
Alternatives
If you want to avoid potential software issues, look for AIOs with hardware-controlled fan curves or those from brands known for more stable companion software. If the LCD display isn't a priority, you can find more budget-friendly 240mm AIOs with similar cooling performance.
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