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To test the performance of the NZXT Kraken X40, we built a powerful X79 based system on an open test bench to push the cooler to it's limits. As we were testing on an open test bench, we directed a Be Quiet! Shadow Wings 120 mm fan at the VRM circuitry to better simulate the airflow generated in a case.
We tested the Kraken X40 and X60 in both the ‘Silent' and ‘Extreme' modes in the software, as well as with the fans at maximum speed (2000 RPM).
Coolers Tested
- NZXT Kraken X60
- NZXT Kraken X40
- Corsair H110 (fans at 12V)
- Corsair H90 (fan at 12V)
- Phanteks PH-TC14PE (fans at 12V)
- Noctua NH-D14 (fans at 12V)
- Processor: Intel Core i7-3930K
- Motherboard: Asus P9X79
- Memory: 16 GB (4 x 4 GB) Mushkin Blackline 1600 MHz
- Thermal Paste: Arctic Cooling MX-2
- Graphics Card: AMD Radeon HD 7950
- Graphics Card (noise tests): HIS Radeon HD 5550 Silence
- Power Supply: Seasonic Platinum P1000W
- Prime 95 (64-bit)
- CPUID Hardware Monitor
Overclocking
We manually overclocked the i7-3930K to 4.7 GHz by increasing the multiplier to 47x, leaving the baseclock set at 100 MHz. We set Load Line Calibration to ‘High', and increased the CPU Current Capability to 120% with a minor voltage increase. Speed stepping was disabled for both stock and overclocked tests.
See validation here.
