Looking for a CPU cooling solution that offers both performance and personalization? The NZXT Kraken Elite RGB 360 brings impressive cooling capabilities alongside striking visual customization options that can transform any PC build.
This 360mm AIO liquid cooler features a standout 2.36-inch LCD display with crisp 640×640 resolution, allowing users to showcase animated GIFs, system performance metrics, or even currently playing music. The high refresh rate and vivid backlight ensure whatever is displayed looks fantastic from virtually any viewing angle.
- PERSONALIZATION THAT POPS - Display a favorite animated GIF or static image, monitor real-time PC performance metrics, see music that's currently playing, integrate web content and more with NZXT CAM software
- WIDE-ANGLE LCD DISPLAY - 2.36" diameter LCD display with a wide viewing angle, crisp 640x640 resolution, high 60 Hz refresh rate, and a vivid 690 cd/m² backlight brings on-screen content to life
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE PUMP - The powerful Asetek pump operates at up to 2,800 RPM to ensure efficient and quiet coolant circulation
Under the hood, the Kraken Elite delivers serious cooling performance with its Asetek pump running at up to 2,800 RPM for efficient and quiet operation. The included F120 RGB Core fans use fluid dynamic bearings to balance static pressure and airflow while adding customizable RGB lighting to complement the display.
Installation appears straightforward with a single breakout cable connecting the pump to the motherboard. While the cooling solution takes up significant space with its 360mm radiator, the performance benefits make it worthwhile for enthusiasts seeking both cooling efficiency and visual impact.
Bottom Line
The NZXT Kraken Elite RGB 360 offers an excellent balance of cooling performance and customization options for PC builders who want both function and flair.
With its high-performance pump, eye-catching display, and quality RGB fans, it represents a solid investment for those looking to keep their CPU temperatures low while adding visual appeal.
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NZXT Kraken Elite RGB 360 – Overview
Liquid cooling technology takes a significant leap forward with the Kraken Elite RGB 360. This AIO cooler features a stunning 2.36-inch LCD display with crisp 640×640 resolution that serves both aesthetic and practical purposes.
The high-performance Asetek pump operates at speeds up to 2,800 RPM, ensuring efficient coolant circulation while maintaining relatively quiet operation at 33.88 dB. The included F120 RGB Core fans utilize fluid dynamic bearings that balance static pressure and airflow for optimal cooling performance.
What sets the Kraken Elite apart is its customization options through NZXT CAM software. Users can display animated GIFs, monitor real-time PC metrics, visualize music playing, or integrate web content. Installation is straightforward with a single breakout cable from pump to motherboard.
The 360mm radiator provides substantial cooling capacity for demanding CPUs. With its combination of performance cooling and visual appeal, the Kraken Elite offers a compelling package for enthusiasts who want both functionality and aesthetics.
Customizable 2.36″ LCD Display
The centerpiece of this AIO cooler is undoubtedly its vibrant LCD screen. At 2.36 inches, the display offers ample space for personalization without overwhelming your build’s aesthetic. Users can showcase GIFs, static images, or performance metrics like CPU temperature and fan speeds.
What makes this feature particularly useful is its practicality beyond mere aesthetics. While monitoring system vitals at a glance, the screen remains crisp and visible even in brightly lit environments. The customization happens through NZXT’s software, which provides a straightforward interface for uploading personal images or selecting from pre-made animations.
The screen brightness adjusts automatically based on ambient lighting conditions, ensuring optimal visibility without being distractingly bright during nighttime use. Though the display adds to the overall price, it transforms the Kraken Elite from a standard cooling solution into a centerpiece for any build.
High-Performance Pump
The heart of this cooling system is its powerful Asetek pump that operates at speeds up to 2,800 RPM. This impressive pump ensures efficient coolant circulation throughout the system while maintaining surprisingly quiet operation. Users won’t have to worry about distracting noise even when the pump is working hard during intensive computing tasks.
The Kraken Elite’s pump design balances performance and acoustics impressively. With a noise level of just 33.88 dB, it remains quieter than many competing models without sacrificing cooling capability. The pump housing also integrates seamlessly with the eye-catching LCD display, creating a cohesive aesthetic for the entire unit.
Performance tests show the pump effectively moves coolant through the 360mm radiator system, helping maintain optimal temperatures even under demanding workloads. This efficiency is particularly important for enthusiasts running overclocked CPUs or handling processor-intensive applications.
RGB Core Fans Cooling Effectiveness
The three F120 RGB Core fans included with this AIO cooler deliver exceptional thermal performance. These fans can reach speeds of up to 2800 RPM, providing substantial airflow across the 360mm radiator. Testing shows they effectively dissipate heat from high-performance CPUs, with users reporting temperature drops from 80°C to around 50°C during gaming sessions.
The cooling effectiveness doesn’t come at the expense of noise. Despite their powerful performance, the fans operate at a reasonable 33.88 dB noise level. The fans also create an impressive visual effect while working, with the RGB lighting providing customizable illumination without sacrificing cooling capability.
For those running demanding applications like video editing or processor-intensive games, the cooling power of these fans makes the Kraken Elite a practical choice beyond just its aesthetic appeal.
Easy Installation
Setting up a liquid cooling system needn’t be intimidating. The Kraken Elite RGB 360 features a thoughtful design that simplifies the installation process for even novice builders. The single breakout cable from pump to motherboard eliminates the usual cable management nightmare associated with AIO coolers.
The mounting hardware comes clearly labeled and organized, making it easy to identify the correct components for your specific CPU socket. Most users report completing the installation in under 30 minutes, even without extensive PC building experience.
NZXT’s CAM software guides users through setup and configuration of the 2.36″ LCD display. The software’s intuitive interface helps quickly establish monitoring parameters or upload custom GIFs and images to personalize your build.
The radiator and fans align seamlessly with standard case mounting points, reducing alignment frustrations during installation. Overall, the streamlined setup process allows builders to focus more on enjoying their new cooling solution than struggling to install it.
Pros and Cons
When considering a high-end cooling solution, understanding both strengths and weaknesses helps make an informed decision. The Kraken Elite 360 offers impressive features but also comes with considerations that might affect your purchase decision.
Pros
- Eye-catching display – The 2.36″ LCD screen with 640×640 resolution and 60Hz refresh rate provides exceptional clarity for displaying GIFs, system metrics, or custom images
- Effective cooling performance – The high-performance Asetek pump operating at up to 2,800 RPM efficiently circulates coolant to maintain lower CPU temperatures
- Simplified installation – Single breakout cable design from pump to motherboard reduces cable clutter and makes setup more straightforward
- Quality RGB implementation – The three F120 RGB Core fans provide both effective airflow and vibrant, customizable lighting effects
- Comprehensive software integration – NZXT CAM software enables extensive personalization options including performance monitoring and media displays
Cons
- Premium price point – The Kraken Elite commands a higher cost compared to many competing AIO coolers with similar radiator sizes
- Software dependency – Many of the advanced features require the CAM software to function properly, which some users may find limiting
- Size considerations – The 360mm radiator requires substantial case space, making it incompatible with smaller PC builds
- Some pump noise reports – A small number of users have noted pump noise issues after extended use
- Limited compatibility with some older motherboards – While installation is generally simple, certain legacy systems may require additional adapters
The Kraken Elite balances impressive aesthetics with cooling performance, making it particularly suitable for showcase builds where both function and appearance matter.
Real-World Performance Through Customer Reviews
Customer feedback reveals the Kraken Elite 360 performs admirably in real-world conditions. Many users report significant temperature reductions for their CPUs, with the cooler efficiently managing heat even during intensive tasks.
The cooling performance comes with impressively low noise levels, with multiple reviewers highlighting the quiet operation of both the pump and fans. Installation receives positive marks for its straightforward process, with pre-applied thermal paste and included brackets for both Intel and AMD platforms simplifying setup.
Some users have specifically mentioned the cooler’s effectiveness in larger cases like the Hyte Y60. While most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, it’s worth noting one customer reported pump failure after some time with their black model, though this appears to be an isolated incident among thousands of satisfied users.
The cooling capabilities combined with the aesthetic features make this AIO a popular choice for those seeking both performance and visual appeal in their builds.
Conclusion
The Kraken Elite 360 stands as a top-tier cooling solution that balances performance with aesthetic appeal. Its impressive thermal regulation capabilities have shown significant temperature reductions during gaming and intensive tasks, with users reporting drops from 80°C to below 50°C. The customizable LCD display adds unique personalization options while the RGB lighting system enhances any build’s visual appeal.
Installation simplicity is another strong point, with pre-applied thermal paste and universal bracket compatibility making setup accessible for most users. While the price point sits on the higher end of the AIO market, the combination of reliable cooling performance, quiet operation, and distinctive visual features justifies the investment for those seeking both function and form.
For builders prioritizing thermal performance without sacrificing aesthetics, this 360mm liquid cooler delivers exceptional value. The Kraken Elite successfully addresses the core requirements of an effective cooling solution while providing the visual customization options that many PC enthusiasts desire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Liquid cooling enthusiasts often have specific questions about AIO coolers before making a purchase decision. The Kraken Elite RGB 360 is a feature-rich cooling solution that generates interest and inquiries from potential buyers. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about this premium cooling solution.
How does the NZXT Kraken Elite RGB 360 perform in gaming setups?
The Kraken Elite RGB 360 delivers excellent thermal performance in gaming setups, especially for high-end CPUs under heavy loads. Users report temperature reductions of 10-15°C compared to mid-range air coolers when running demanding games. The 360mm radiator with three F120 RGB Core fans provides sufficient cooling capacity for overclocked processors. The high-performance pump operating at up to 2,800 RPM ensures efficient heat dissipation during extended gaming sessions.
What are the noise levels like on the NZXT Kraken Elite RGB 360?
The Kraken Elite RGB 360 operates at approximately 33.88 dB according to specifications, making it relatively quiet during normal use. At lower loads, the fans run at reduced speeds and are barely audible. Under heavy loads, the fans become more noticeable but still maintain acceptable noise levels compared to other high-performance cooling solutions. The fluid dynamic bearings in the RGB Core fans contribute to reduced noise generation while maintaining cooling efficiency.
Is thermal paste included with the NZXT Kraken Elite RGB 360, and if so, what type?
Yes, the Kraken Elite RGB 360 comes with pre-applied thermal paste on the copper cold plate. The pre-applied paste is of good quality and provides effective thermal conductivity right out of the box. Users don’t need to purchase additional thermal compound for the initial installation. For subsequent installations or when replacing the thermal paste, any high-quality thermal compound compatible with liquid coolers will work effectively.
Can you compare the NZXT Kraken Elite RGB 360 with other models in terms of cooling efficiency?
The Kraken Elite RGB 360 ranks among the top performers in the AIO cooler market. Compared to the standard Kraken series, the Elite offers improved cooling efficiency due to its optimized pump design. When measured against competitors like Corsair’s H150i Elite or Arctic’s Liquid Freezer II 360, the Kraken Elite RGB 360 performs comparably, typically within 1-3°C of these alternatives. The combination of a powerful pump and high-quality fans gives it an edge over many 240mm AIOs and most air coolers on the market.
Does the NZXT Kraken Elite RGB 360 require regular maintenance, such as refilling?
No, the Kraken Elite RGB 360 is a closed-loop system that doesn’t require refilling. The sealed design eliminates the need for coolant maintenance throughout its operational lifespan. However, users should periodically clean dust from the radiator fins and fans to maintain optimal cooling performance. NZXT typically provides a 6-year warranty, indicating their confidence in the cooler’s longevity and sealed design integrity.
What is the installation process like for the NZXT Kraken Elite RGB 360?
The installation process is relatively straightforward, even for first-time builders. The cooler includes:
- Pre-applied thermal paste
- Mounting brackets for both Intel and AMD sockets
- A single breakout cable from pump to motherboard for simplified cable management
The installation typically takes 15-30 minutes depending on experience level and case layout. The unified cable design significantly reduces cable clutter compared to earlier models. Users should ensure their case has sufficient clearance for the 360mm radiator before purchase, as it requires mounting space for three 120mm fans in a row.
For the best results, it’s recommended to install the radiator at the top or front of the case, with the tubes positioned to avoid air bubbles in the pump head. The NZXT CAM software makes setup of the LCD display and RGB lighting intuitive after physical installation is complete.
