What To Know
- The Strix LC 360 features a stealthy black finish with angular accents, while the Kraken Z73 boasts a clean and minimalistic aesthetic with a modern flair.
- The Strix LC 360 utilizes a 360mm radiator with three 120mm fans, while the Kraken Z73 employs a 360mm radiator with three 140mm fans.
- The Strix LC 360 features a high-performance pump with a copper cold plate, while the Kraken Z73 boasts an Asetek Gen 7 pump with a larger cold plate.
In the realm of high-performance computing, liquid cooling has emerged as the undisputed champion for keeping scorching components at bay. Among the leading contenders in this arena are two titans: the Asus ROG Strix LC 360 and the NZXT Kraken Z73. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll pit these formidable coolers head-to-head, scrutinizing their design, performance, features, and more, to determine which reigns supreme in the battle for cooling supremacy.
Design and Aesthetics
The Asus ROG Strix LC 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 both sport sleek and visually captivating designs. The Strix LC 360 features a stealthy black finish with angular accents, while the Kraken Z73 boasts a clean and minimalistic aesthetic with a modern flair. Both coolers come equipped with vibrant RGB lighting, allowing you to customize the look of your system to match your tastes.
Radiator and Fan Performance
The cooling capacity of an AIO liquid cooler is largely determined by its radiator and fan performance. The Strix LC 360 utilizes a 360mm radiator with three 120mm fans, while the Kraken Z73 employs a 360mm radiator with three 140mm fans. The larger fan size on the Kraken Z73 provides slightly better airflow, resulting in marginally lower temperatures.
Pump and Block
The pump and block are crucial components responsible for circulating the coolant through the system. The Strix LC 360 features a high-performance pump with a copper cold plate, while the Kraken Z73 boasts an Asetek Gen 7 pump with a larger cold plate. Both pumps offer excellent performance, but the Kraken Z73’s larger cold plate may provide a slight advantage in heat dissipation.
Software and Control
The ability to monitor and control your cooling system is essential for maintaining optimal performance. The Strix LC 360 comes with Asus’s Armoury Crate software, which provides comprehensive control over fan speeds, pump settings, and RGB lighting. The Kraken Z73 utilizes NZXT’s CAM software, which offers a user-friendly interface and a wide range of customization options.
Features and Extras
Beyond their core cooling capabilities, both the Strix LC 360 and Kraken Z73 offer additional features to enhance the user experience. The Strix LC 360 comes with a built-in LCD display that can show real-time system information or custom animations. The Kraken Z73 features a unique Infinity Mirror display on the pump head, which provides a mesmerizing visual effect.
Noise Levels
Noise levels are an important consideration for those seeking a quiet cooling solution. Both the Strix LC 360 and Kraken Z73 operate at relatively low noise levels, even under heavy loads. However, the Kraken Z73 has a slight edge in this area due to its larger fans, which can spin at lower RPMs while maintaining adequate airflow.
Final Verdict: The Winner Revealed
Choosing between the Asus ROG Strix LC 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a high-performance cooler with a stealthy design, the Strix LC 360 is an excellent choice. If you prioritize aesthetics, customization options, and a whisper-quiet operation, the Kraken Z73 is the clear winner.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which cooler has a larger radiator?
A: Both coolers have 360mm radiators.
Q: Which cooler has larger fans?
A: The Kraken Z73 has larger 140mm fans.
Q: Which cooler has a more powerful pump?
A: Both coolers have high-performance pumps, but the Kraken Z73’s pump may have a slight advantage.
Q: Which cooler has better software control?
A: Both coolers have user-friendly software, but the Kraken Z73’s CAM software offers a wider range of customization options.
Q: Which cooler is quieter?
A: The Kraken Z73 is slightly quieter due to its larger fans.
