NZXT Kraken 360 - RL-KN360-B1-360mm AIO CPU Liquid Cooler - Customizable 1.54" Square LCD Display for Images, Performance Metrics and More - High-Performance Pump - 3 x F120P Fans - Black
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AI Verdict
This 360mm AIO with a 1.54" 240x240 LCD display and 7th Gen Asetek pump is for builders prioritizing visual customization over raw cooling value.
This AIO offers strong cooling performance with its 360mm radiator and 7th Gen Asetek pump, capable of managing demanding CPUs. However, its standout feature, the 1.54" LCD display, is smaller than some competitors and the Elite version, making it a situational fit for those who specifically want this level of visual customization without the higher cost of the Elite model.
If the 1.54" display is too small, look for AIOs with larger, higher-resolution LCD screens, typically found in 'Elite' or premium versions from NZXT or other brands.
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Pros
- The 7th Gen Asetek pump operates up to 2,800 RPM, contributing to efficient cooling performance.
- The 1.54" square LCD display with 240x240 resolution allows for displaying custom images, GIFs, and real-time PC performance metrics.
- F120P Static Pressure Fans utilize fluid dynamic bearings and offer PWM control up to 1,800 RPM, with a reported max noise of 30.88 dB.
- Installation is simplified by a single breakout cable from the pump to the motherboard and pre-applied thermal paste.
- The liquid tubes are protected with reinforced nylon-braided sleeves, adding to durability.
- NZXT CAM software enables control over fan and pump speeds, including a 0 RPM mode at low temperatures to minimize noise.
Cons
- The 1.54" LCD screen is a small square that does not cover the entire pump area, which can be a visual disappointment for some users expecting a larger display.
- The NZXT CAM software, while offering customization, has been described by some users as problematic or 'shitty'.
- The pump, while generally quiet, becomes audibly noticeable above 1,600 RPM.
- Some users report that the Intel CPU mounting bracket can be too flexible, potentially causing bending issues with newer Intel CPUs.
Dimension Scores
The 360mm radiator combined with a 7th Gen Asetek pump operating at up to 2,800 RPM provides effective cooling, keeping demanding CPUs below 70°C under stress.
While the F120P fans have a max noise output of 30.88 dB and the pump is inaudible below 1,600 RPM, the pump becomes audibly noticeable at higher RPMs.
The liquid tubes are protected with reinforced nylon-braided sleeves, and the radiator is a 27mm thick aluminum unit with a copper cold plate.
The installation is simplified by a single breakout cable from the pump to the motherboard, reducing cable clutter.
Best For
- PC builds where aesthetic customization and displaying system metrics on the CPU block are a priority.
- Users with high-end CPUs (like a 7800X3D or i9-13900k) who need effective cooling for gaming or photo editing.
- Enthusiasts who want to integrate their cooler into the NZXT CAM ecosystem for unified control.
Not Recommended For
- Budget-conscious builders who prioritize cooling performance per dollar over visual features.
- Users who prefer minimal software dependencies or have had negative experiences with proprietary control software.
- Those expecting a full-coverage LCD display on the pump block, as this model has a smaller 1.54" screen.
Watch Out For
- The 1.54" LCD display is a small square in the center of the pump, not a full-coverage screen, which can lead to disappointment if you're expecting the larger Elite version's display.
- NZXT CAM software is required for display customization and fan/pump control, and some users find it to be unreliable or cumbersome.
- The pump's noise level increases noticeably above 1,600 RPM, becoming clearly audible at its maximum 2,800 RPM.
- There are reports of the Intel CPU mounting bracket being too flexible, potentially causing poor contact pressure and CPU bending issues, a problem noted across Asetek AIOs.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 810074842723 |
| ASIN | B0BY3J3ZPZ |
| Brand | NZXT |
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Wattage | 11.88 watts |
| Material | Polycarbonate |
| Item Weight | 4.4 pounds |
| Noise Level | 30.6 Decibels |
| Manufacturer | Nzxt |
| Cooling Method | Water |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Air Flow Capacity | 50 Cubic Feet Per Minute |
| Item model number | RL-KN360-B1 |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Product Dimensions | 15.51"L x 1.06"W x 4.76"H |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 2800 RPM |
What Buyers Say
The biggest surprise for many users is the actual size of the LCD screen; it's a 1.54" square display that sits in the middle of the pump block, not a full-coverage screen like some might expect from the product images or the Elite version. Despite this, the cooler consistently receives praise for its ability to keep CPU temperatures low, even under heavy loads, with some users reporting their CPU never exceeding 70°C. The installation process is frequently highlighted as straightforward due to pre-applied thermal paste and a single cable design. However, the required NZXT CAM software draws mixed opinions, with some finding it clunky or unreliable.
“Man, this thing cools my 7800X3D like a champ, temps are awesome, but that screen is way smaller than I thought it'd be, kinda bummed about that square in the middle.”
Common Praise
- Effectively manages CPU temperatures, keeping them low even during high-stress activities.
- The installation process is straightforward, aided by pre-applied thermal paste and a single breakout cable.
- The 1.54" LCD display allows for personalized images, GIFs, and real-time system metric monitoring.
- The F120P fans operate quietly, especially at lower RPMs, contributing to a less noisy system.
- The overall design is visually appealing, adding to the aesthetic of a PC build.
Common Complaints
- The 1.54" LCD screen is smaller than anticipated and does not cover the entire pump housing, leading to a less premium visual than expected.
- The NZXT CAM software can be buggy or difficult to use, and is required for full functionality of the display and fan/pump control.
- The pump can become audibly noticeable when operating above 1,600 RPM.
- Concerns about the flexibility of the Intel mounting bracket potentially causing poor contact or CPU bending.
- The price point is considered high by some, especially when compared to other 360mm AIOs that offer similar cooling performance without the display.
Ownership Tips
- The actual screen size is a square 1.54 inches, not a full circular display, which is a common point of confusion.
- You'll spend time in NZXT CAM software to get the display and fan curves dialed in, and it can be a bit finicky.
- The pre-applied thermal paste is convenient, but some users still opt to clean it off and apply their own for perceived better performance.
- The pump noise isn't an issue at idle or light loads, but you'll hear it ramp up under heavy CPU stress.
- Ensure your case has adequate clearance for a 360mm radiator, as it's a substantial component.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the size and resolution of the LCD display?
The NZXT Kraken 360 (RL-KN360-B1) features a 1.54" square LCD display with a 240x240 resolution, a 30 Hz refresh rate, and 300 cd/m² backlight.
Does this cooler come with thermal paste pre-applied?
Yes, the Kraken 360 comes with thermal paste pre-applied to the copper cold plate, simplifying the installation process.
Is the NZXT CAM software required to use this cooler?
Yes, the NZXT CAM software is necessary for personalizing the LCD screen content, controlling fan and pump speeds, and utilizing features like 0 RPM mode.
What is the maximum pump speed?
The high-performance Asetek pump operates at up to 2,800 RPM to ensure efficient coolant circulation.
What kind of fans are included?
It includes three F120P Static Pressure Fans with fluid dynamic bearings, designed for an optimal balance of static pressure and airflow.
Is this compatible with AMD AM5 and Intel LGA 1700 sockets?
Yes, it is compatible with current desktop sockets from Intel (LGA 1700, 1200, 115X) and AMD (AM5, AM4).
Buying Guide
When you're looking at an AIO liquid cooler like this, you're essentially buying a self-contained water cooling loop for your CPU. The '360mm' refers to the radiator size, which means it accommodates three 120mm fans. This size is typically for higher-end CPUs that generate a lot of heat. The LCD display is a cosmetic feature, letting you show off system stats or custom images, but it doesn't directly impact cooling performance.
cooling_method: Water
This means it uses a liquid coolant circulated through a radiator and a cold plate on your CPU to dissipate heat, which is generally more effective than air coolers for high-wattage processors. Think of it like your car's radiator, but for your computer's brain.
fan_size: 360mm (3 x F120P Fans)
This indicates the size of the radiator and the number of fans. A 360mm radiator is large and offers significant surface area for heat dissipation, making it suitable for powerful CPUs. The F120P fans are designed for static pressure, meaning they're good at pushing air through the radiator's fins.
LCD DISPLAY: 1.54" square LCD display with 240x240 resolution
This is a visual feature on the pump block that sits on your CPU. It allows you to display system information, custom images, or GIFs. The 1.54" size and 240x240 resolution mean it's a relatively small, square display, not a large, high-definition screen that covers the entire pump.
HIGH-PERFORMANCE PUMP: Operates at 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 away from your CPU. This 7th Gen Asetek pump is a standard for many AIOs, known for its balance of performance and acoustics.
Alternatives
If the 1.54" LCD display isn't a priority or you want a larger, higher-resolution screen, look for AIOs with 2.36" or larger displays. If you need maximum cooling performance without the display, consider AIOs with thicker radiators or different fan configurations.
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