Asus Rog Strix Lc Ii 360 Vs Nzxt Kraken Z73

In the realm of PC cooling, liquid coolers have emerged as the preferred choice for enthusiasts and performance-seekers alike. Among the top contenders in this arena are two formidable giants: the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and the NZXT Kraken Z73. Both coolers boast impressive specifications and features, but which one truly reigns supreme? In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of each cooler, comparing their performance, aesthetics, and value to determine the undisputed champion.

Performance Comparison: Cooling Power

Cooling performance is paramount when it comes to liquid coolers. Both the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 utilize large 360mm radiators and high-quality fans to effectively dissipate heat from your CPU. However, slight differences in design and engineering set them apart.

The ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 employs a copper cold plate that efficiently transfers heat from the CPU to the coolant. Its three 120mm fans deliver an impressive airflow of up to 80.95 CFM, ensuring optimal heat removal.

On the other hand, the NZXT Kraken Z73 features a larger copper cold plate, providing increased surface area for heat transfer. Its three 120mm fans are designed with a fluid dynamic bearing (FDB), resulting in quieter operation and enhanced durability.

In real-world testing, both coolers demonstrate exceptional cooling capabilities. The ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 slightly edges out the NZXT Kraken Z73 in terms of peak cooling performance, but the difference is negligible. Both coolers effectively maintain low CPU temperatures under heavy loads, making them ideal for demanding tasks such as gaming and content creation.

Aesthetics: Visual Appeal

In addition to performance, aesthetics play a significant role for many users. Both the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 offer visually stunning designs that complement any PC build.

The ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 exudes a sleek and modern aesthetic. Its black and gray color scheme and angular design give it a futuristic look. The RGB lighting on the pump head and fans can be customized to match your system’s color scheme.

The NZXT Kraken Z73 takes a more minimalist approach with its clean white design. The pump head features a vibrant LCD screen that can display system information, custom images, or animated GIFs. The RGB lighting on the pump head and fans is fully addressable, allowing for a wide range of color effects.

Ultimately, the choice between these two coolers in terms of aesthetics is a matter of personal preference. Both offer unique designs that cater to different tastes.

Build Quality and Reliability

When investing in a liquid cooler, build quality and reliability are crucial considerations. Both the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 are constructed using high-quality materials and undergo rigorous testing to ensure durability.

The ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 features a robust aluminum radiator and reinforced tubing that can withstand high pressure. The pump is designed to provide a long lifespan, with a rated MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) of 60,000 hours.

The NZXT Kraken Z73 also boasts a durable construction with a corrosion-resistant aluminum radiator and reinforced tubing. Its pump is designed with a sealed bearing system that reduces noise and vibration, contributing to its impressive MTBF of 60,000 hours.

Noise Levels: Quiet Operation

Noise levels are an important factor to consider when choosing a liquid cooler. Both the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 offer quiet operation, ensuring minimal distractions during use.

The ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360’s fans utilize a PWM-controlled design, which adjusts their speed based on the CPU temperature. This intelligent control allows the fans to operate at lower speeds during idle or light loads, minimizing noise output.

The NZXT Kraken Z73’s fans also feature PWM control and are equipped with a FDB bearing system. The FDB bearing reduces friction and vibration, resulting in quieter operation compared to traditional ball bearings.

In practical use, both coolers deliver impressive noise levels. The ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 is slightly quieter at low to medium fan speeds, but the difference is not significant.

Software and Control

Modern liquid coolers come with dedicated software that allows users to monitor and control various aspects of the cooler’s operation. Both the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 offer comprehensive software suites that provide a range of features.

The ASUS ROG Armoury Crate software provides real-time monitoring of temperature, fan speed, and pump performance. It also allows users to create custom cooling profiles and adjust the RGB lighting on the pump head and fans.

The NZXT CAM software offers similar functionality, including temperature monitoring, fan control, and RGB lighting customization. Additionally, CAM provides advanced features such as system monitoring, hardware diagnostics, and game optimization.

Value for Money: Bang for Your Buck

When considering a liquid cooler, value for money is a key factor. Both the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 offer a premium cooling experience, but they come at different price points.

The ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 is generally priced slightly lower than the NZXT Kraken Z73. However, the price difference is often marginal, and both coolers offer exceptional value for money.

Ultimately, the best value proposition depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize aesthetics and advanced software features, the NZXT Kraken Z73 is a solid choice. If you prefer a more affordable option with reliable cooling performance, the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 is an excellent value.

The Verdict: The Undisputed Champion

After a thorough examination of performance, aesthetics, build quality, noise levels, software, and value for money, we can confidently declare the undisputed champion: the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360.

While both the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 are exceptional liquid coolers, the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 offers a slightly better cooling performance, a more affordable price point, and a slightly quieter operation. Its sleek design and customizable RGB lighting also make it a visually appealing choice.

Of course, the NZXT Kraken Z73 remains a formidable contender with its vibrant LCD screen and feature-rich CAM software. However, these additional features come at a slightly higher cost.

Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual priorities and budget. If you prioritize peak cooling performance, affordability, and a sleek design, the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 is the clear winner. If you value aesthetics, advanced software features, and a vibrant LCD screen, the NZXT Kraken Z73 is a compelling option.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which cooler is better for overclocking?

Both the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 offer exceptional cooling performance for overclocking. However, the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 slightly edges out the NZXT Kraken Z73 in terms of peak cooling capacity.

2. Which cooler has the better RGB lighting?

The NZXT Kraken Z73 features a vibrant LCD screen that can display custom images, animations, and system information. The ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 offers customizable RGB lighting on the pump head and fans, but it does not have an LCD screen.

3. Which cooler is easier to install?

Both coolers come with detailed installation manuals and user-friendly mounting hardware. The installation process is generally straightforward for both coolers.

4. Which cooler is more durable?

Both the ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 are constructed with high-quality materials and feature robust designs. Their pumps are designed to provide long lifespans, with MTBFs of 60,000 hours.

5. Which cooler is quieter?

Both coolers offer quiet operation, especially at low to medium fan speeds. The ASUS ROG Strix LC II 360 is slightly quieter than the NZXT Kraken Z73 at low fan speeds, but the difference is not significant.