Review: NZXT Kraken Z73

Conclusion

The performance of all-in-one CPU coolers has plateaued, forcing big-name brands to seek other forms of differentiation. RGB lighting has been all the rage in recent years, and in 2020 we suspect digital displays and software customisation are going to become key factors in the high-end segment.

Setting the stage is NZXT, whose Kraken Z-Series coolers are in our estimation the most handsome closed-loop solutions to date. Equipped with a 60mm LCD, the cooler displays real-time system information or, if you prefer, an animated gif of your choosing.

One of the first to be built on Asetek's seventh-gen platform, the flagship 360mm Kraken Z73 has the performance potential to back-up its stylish looks, though there are a few niggles to be aware of. NZXT's default fan profiles are unnecessarily noisy, you have to use the CAM software to make the most of the cooler, and of course there's the massive £250 price tag.

Bottom line: I can't fathom spending this amount of money on a CPU cooler, but there are plenty of enthusiasts who will break the bank for components that stand out from the crowd. NZXT's Kraken Z73 certainly does that.

NZXT Kraken Z73

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The NZXT Kraken Z73 CPU cooler is available to purchase from Scan Computers.

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