What To Know
- The ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and NZXT Kraken X73 share similar dimensions, with both featuring a 360mm radiator and three 120mm fans.
- The Strix LC II 360 sports a sleek and angular aesthetic, while the Kraken X73 adopts a more rounded and organic form.
- The Strix LC II 360 slightly edges out the Kraken X73 in terms of raw cooling power, but the difference is negligible in most practical scenarios.
The world of PC cooling has witnessed a fierce rivalry between two titans: the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and the NZXT Kraken X73. Both liquid coolers boast an impressive array of features and performance capabilities, but which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the intricate details of each cooler, comparing their specifications, performance, features, and value to help you make an informed decision.
Specifications and Design
The ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and NZXT Kraken X73 share similar dimensions, with both featuring a 360mm radiator and three 120mm fans. However, there are subtle differences in their designs. The Strix LC II 360 sports a sleek and angular aesthetic, while the Kraken X73 adopts a more rounded and organic form. Both coolers feature customizable RGB lighting, allowing you to personalize your system’s aesthetics.
Radiator and Fans
Both coolers utilize high-quality radiators with optimized fin density to maximize heat dissipation. The Strix LC II 360’s radiator is constructed from aluminum, while the Kraken X73’s radiator is made of copper. Both materials provide excellent heat transfer properties.
The fans included with each cooler play a crucial role in airflow and cooling performance. The Strix LC II 360 comes with three ROG Noctua IndustrialPPC 2000 PWM fans, known for their exceptional airflow and low noise levels. The Kraken X73 employs three Aer RGB 2 120mm fans, which offer a balance between airflow and noise reduction.
Pump and Cold Plate
The pump is the heart of any liquid cooler, responsible for circulating the coolant through the system. The Strix LC II 360 features a high-performance Asetek Gen7 pump, which offers a quiet and efficient operation. The Kraken X73 also utilizes a powerful pump, which is designed to minimize noise and vibrations.
Both coolers have copper cold plates, which provide excellent heat transfer from the CPU to the coolant. The Strix LC II 360’s cold plate is slightly larger than the Kraken X73’s, offering potentially better coverage for larger CPUs.
Performance
When it comes to cooling performance, both the Strix LC II 360 and Kraken X73 deliver exceptional results. In independent tests, both coolers have demonstrated the ability to keep high-end CPUs cool under heavy loads. The Strix LC II 360 slightly edges out the Kraken X73 in terms of raw cooling power, but the difference is negligible in most practical scenarios.
Features and Software
Both coolers offer a range of features to enhance your cooling experience. The Strix LC II 360 incorporates a built-in fan controller, allowing you to adjust fan speeds manually or via the included software. The Kraken X73 comes with a CAM software suite, which provides comprehensive control over the cooler’s settings, including fan speeds, pump speed, and RGB lighting.
Value and Warranty
The ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and NZXT Kraken X73 are premium liquid coolers with a price tag to match. The Strix LC II 360 is slightly more expensive than the Kraken X73, but it also offers a slightly better cooling performance. Both coolers come with a 5-year warranty, providing peace of mind for long-term use.
Takeaways: The Ultimate Choice
Choosing between the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and NZXT Kraken X73 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize raw cooling performance, the Strix LC II 360 is the better choice. However, if you value aesthetics, software control, and a slightly lower price point, the Kraken X73 is an excellent option. Both coolers offer exceptional cooling capabilities and will keep your CPU running cool and efficiently for years to come.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which cooler is better for overclocking?
A: Both coolers are capable of handling overclocked CPUs, but the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 has a slight edge in raw cooling power.
Q: What is the difference between the fans included with each cooler?
A: The Strix LC II 360 comes with ROG Noctua IndustrialPPC 2000 PWM fans, which are known for their high airflow and low noise levels. The Kraken X73 uses Aer RGB 2 120mm fans, which offer a balance between airflow and noise reduction.
Q: Which cooler has better software control?
A: The NZXT Kraken X73 has a more comprehensive software suite, providing detailed control over fan speeds, pump speed, and RGB lighting.
Q: Which cooler is quieter?
A: Both coolers are relatively quiet, but the NZXT Kraken X73 has a slight advantage in noise reduction, especially at lower fan speeds.
Q: Which cooler has a longer warranty?
A: Both coolers come with a 5-year warranty.
