How Much Does it Cost?
The NZXT Kraken Plus AIO coolers are launching today, and while we have the MSRP from NZXT, we do not have final confirmation from retailers, so we’ll update that as soon as we can. The Kraken Plus 240 should be priced around £129.99, £144.99 and £169.99 for the 240mm, 280mm and 360mm respectively. While the Kraken Plus 240 RGB and the Kraken Plus 360 RGB are priced at £169.99 and £199.99 respectively.
Overview
The NZXT Kraken Plus 240mm AIO liquid cooler presents a strong offering in the competitive AIO market. It successfully blends NZXT’s signature aesthetic with some efficiency and performance improvements over its predecessor. The inclusion of the customisable LCD screen remains a key draw, allowing for both practical system monitoring and personalised visual flair. Coupled with a more streamlined installation process and effective cooling capabilities, the Kraken Plus 240mm aims to be a competitive choice for users seeking a balance of performance, features, and visual appeal without breaking the bank.
Build Quality
Continuing NZXT’s established reputation, the Kraken Plus 240mm exhibits impressive build quality. The radiator feels robust and well-constructed, promising longevity. The extended rubber tubing, encased in a durable nylon braided sleeving, not only enhances the cooler’s aesthetic but also provides reassurance against leaks and wear over time. The pump housing feels solid, and the integrated electronics for fan and RGB control remove the need to have cables running to the pump; they’re hiding in the braiding with the tubing. Even the tool-free mounting brackets inspire confidence in their durability and ease of use. Overall, the Kraken Plus 240mm feels like a premium product built to last.
Digital Display and RGB
The 1.54-inch square LCD screen remains a standout feature of the Kraken series, and the Plus 240mm iteration doesn’t disappoint. The 240×240 resolution offers a crisp display for monitoring system statistics, showcasing custom images, or displaying animated GIFs. The integration with NZXT’s CAM software, now significantly improved, provides a user-friendly interface for customisation and control. While the screen size is smaller than the one found on the larger 420mm model, it still offers ample real estate for displaying relevant information or adding a personal touch to your system’s aesthetics. The option of both non-RGB and RGB fans caters to different visual preferences, with the RGB Core single-frame fan offering vibrant and customisable lighting effects that can be synchronised with other NZXT components through CAM. Personally, I think the RGB model is the way to go, but it’s nice to have a choice.
Cooling Performance
The primary function of any cooler is performance, and the Kraken Plus 240mm delivers respectable results. Our testing on a demanding Intel Core i9-12900K processor showed an improvement over the previous generation Kraken 240 AIO. A reduction of 2°C under load at stock settings and a further 1°C improvement when overclocked and undervolted demonstrates the effectiveness of the updated turbine pump and the latest generation of high static pressure fans. While a 240mm AIO might not compete with larger 360mm or 420mm coolers in extreme overclocking scenarios, the Kraken Plus 240mm proves more than capable of handling high-end CPUs under demanding workloads, making it an excellent choice for gaming and everyday use.
Acoustic Performance
While the previous generation Kraken 240 was noted for its quiet operation, the Kraken Plus 240mm maintains a decent acoustic profile. While we noted that the older model’s silence was partly attributable to its default fan curve, the new model strikes a good balance between cooling performance and noise levels. Under typical loads, the fans remain relatively quiet, ensuring a distraction-free computing experience. Even during demanding stress tests, while the fan noise becomes more noticeable, it doesn’t reach intrusive levels. Users who prioritise near-silent operation may want to fine-tune fan curves within the CAM software to achieve their desired balance between cooling and acoustics.
Should I Buy One?
The NZXT Kraken Plus 240mm AIO liquid cooler offers a blend of effective cooling, customisable aesthetics, and user-friendly installation. The inclusion of the vibrant LCD screen and the improved CAM software adds system monitoring and personalisation and takes the AIO to the next level for a mid-range liquid cooler.
