NZXT Kraken X60 Review

1. Introduction2. Packaging and Bundle3. The NZXT Kraken X604. Installing the Corsair H905. NZXT Kraken Control Software6. Testing Methodology and Overclocking7. Thermal Performance8. Acoustic Performance9. Closing Thoughts10. View All Pages

Overall we are generally impressed with what the NZXT Kraken X60 has to offer.  It's good to see NZXT expanding their cooler range to incorporate all-in-one liquid cooling units, however it is a bold move to release a high-end cooler such as the X60 as their first product.

Whether this strategy will pay off or not remains to be seen, but we would like to see the company filling out their range with some 120 mm and 240 mm models in the near future.  We would also like to see NZXT offering a 5-year warranty like Corsair do with their liquid coolers.

The differences in performance between the Kraken X60 and the H110 are purely down to the different fans bundled with the two models and both units are basically identical in terms of performance.  NZXT's fans are capable of spinning faster than the Corsair models, however this increases the noise level substantially.  In fact, neither cooler offers good acoustic performance if we are being honest.  Even when the Kraken is set to ‘Silent' mode, it's still noticeably louder than the Noctua NH-D14 at full belt.

One area in which the X60 has a distinct advantage over it's Corsair counterpart is the inbuilt fan controller and LED lighting, however, this comes at a significant price premium.  At a price of £120 from Specialtech, the X60 is around £25 more expensive than the Corsair H90.  So those looking for the cheapest possible unit would probably opt for the Corsair.

Another factor which needs to be considered is the compatibility of the two coolers as there aren't many cases which have room for a giant 280 mm radiator.

Also, the X60 has 15 mm fan spacings and the H110 has 20 mm fan spacings, so they are only compatible with certain cases. A list of compatible cases can be seen earlier in the review, however, if you already have a case you'll be restricted to which you can choose.

Pros:

• Impressive cooling performance.
• LED Lighting.
• Inbuilt fan controller.

Cons:

• More expensive than Corsair H110.
• 2 year warranty (compared to 5 years for Corsair units).
• Check your chassis has room for the radiator!
• Quite noisy.

KitGuru says: A ‘krakin' alternative to the Corsair H110!

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