What To Know
- The Kraken Z73, on the other hand, focuses on a minimalist aesthetic with its sleek, black design and a smaller, circular LCD screen on the pump block.
- Both the Ryujin II 360 and Kraken Z73 excel in this regard, offering a range of customization options to match your personal style.
- If you prioritize a customizable LCD screen and a more aggressive RGB aesthetic, the Ryujin II 360 might be the better choice.
Choosing the right CPU cooler is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and longevity for your PC. When it comes to all-in-one (AIO) liquid coolers, the ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 and the NZXT Kraken Z73 are two popular contenders vying for your attention. Both offer impressive cooling capabilities, sleek aesthetics, and innovative features, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each cooler, helping you make an informed decision for your next PC build.
Cooling Performance: A Battle of Thermal Prowess
Both the ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 are designed to keep your CPU cool under intense workloads. The Ryujin II 360 boasts a powerful 360mm radiator with three 120mm ARGB fans, while the Kraken Z73 utilizes a similar configuration with three 140mm fans.
The Ryujin II 360 stands out with its unique pump design, featuring a built-in 1.75-inch LCD display that can display system information, custom images, or even animated GIFs. This adds a touch of personalization and functionality, but it also contributes to a slightly higher price point. The Kraken Z73, on the other hand, focuses on a minimalist aesthetic with its sleek, black design and a smaller, circular LCD screen on the pump block.
In terms of cooling performance, both coolers deliver exceptional results. The Ryujin II 360 generally performs slightly better, especially at higher CPU loads, thanks to its larger radiator and more powerful fans. However, the Kraken Z73 is not far behind and offers excellent cooling for most users.
Aesthetics and Customization: A Visual Showdown
AIO coolers are not just about functionality; they also play a significant role in enhancing the overall aesthetic of your PC. Both the Ryujin II 360 and Kraken Z73 excel in this regard, offering a range of customization options to match your personal style.
The Ryujin II 360’s RGB lighting is vibrant and customizable through the ASUS Aura Sync software, allowing you to synchronize the lighting with other compatible components. The built-in LCD screen adds another layer of personalization, allowing you to display custom images, GIFs, or system information.
The Kraken Z73 also features impressive RGB lighting with customizable effects through the NZXT CAM software. The circular LCD screen on the pump block provides a unique visual element and can display system information, custom images, or even animated GIFs.
Ultimately, the choice between the two coolers comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a customizable LCD screen and a more aggressive RGB aesthetic, the Ryujin II 360 might be the better choice. However, if you prefer a minimalist design with excellent RGB lighting, the Kraken Z73 could be a perfect fit.
Noise Levels: The Silent Guardians
While cooling performance is crucial, noise levels are equally important, especially for users who value a quiet PC environment. Both the Ryujin II 360 and Kraken Z73 are designed to operate quietly, but their noise levels vary depending on the fan speed and workload.
At idle, both coolers are virtually silent, with minimal fan noise. However, under heavy load, the Ryujin II 360’s fans can become slightly louder due to their higher RPM. The Kraken Z73’s larger fans generally operate at lower RPMs, resulting in quieter operation even under stress.
It’s worth noting that both coolers offer fan curve controls, allowing you to adjust fan speeds and noise levels to your preference. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to your noise tolerance and desired cooling performance.
Features and Compatibility: A Comparison of Functionality
Beyond cooling performance and aesthetics, both coolers offer a range of features and compatibility options to enhance your PC experience.
The Ryujin II 360 stands out with its built-in 1.75-inch LCD screen, providing a unique and functional element. It also features a built-in pump block with a micro-channel design for improved heat dissipation.
The Kraken Z73, on the other hand, boasts a smaller, circular LCD screen on the pump block. It also features an innovative “Aero” fan design with a unique blade shape for improved airflow and noise reduction.
In terms of compatibility, both coolers are compatible with a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets. The Ryujin II 360 supports both LGA 1700 and AM5 sockets, while the Kraken Z73 supports LGA 1700, LGA 1200, and AM4 sockets.
Price and Value: Finding the Sweet Spot
The price of an AIO cooler is an important consideration, especially when comparing high-end models like the Ryujin II 360 and Kraken Z73. The Ryujin II 360 is generally priced slightly higher than the Kraken Z73, due to its more advanced features and LCD screen.
However, both coolers offer excellent value for their price. The Ryujin II 360 provides exceptional cooling performance, a unique LCD screen, and customizable RGB lighting. The Kraken Z73, on the other hand, offers impressive cooling capabilities, a minimalist design with RGB lighting, and a lower price point.
Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your budget and priorities. If you’re willing to spend a little extra for advanced features and a unique LCD screen, the Ryujin II 360 is a worthy investment. However, if you prioritize value and a minimalist design, the Kraken Z73 is a compelling option.
Choosing the Right Cooler for Your Needs
So, which cooler emerges as the champion? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences.
The ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 is a great choice if you:
- Prioritize exceptional cooling performance
- Value a unique and customizable LCD screen
- Enjoy a vibrant and customizable RGB aesthetic
- Are willing to spend a little extra for advanced features
The NZXT Kraken Z73 is a great choice if you:
- Seek excellent cooling performance at a competitive price
- Prefer a minimalist design with RGB lighting
- Value quiet operation and a sleek aesthetic
- Want a reliable and compatible cooler for your PC
Ultimately, both the ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 are excellent AIO coolers that can enhance your PC’s performance and aesthetics. Carefully consider your priorities and budget before making your final decision.
The Verdict: A Close Call
The ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 are both top-tier AIO coolers that offer exceptional cooling performance, sleek aesthetics, and a range of innovative features. The Ryujin II 360 stands out with its unique LCD screen and powerful pump, while the Kraken Z73 appeals with its minimalist design and quiet operation.
The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. If you prioritize advanced features and a unique LCD screen, the Ryujin II 360 is a worthy investment. However, if you seek excellent cooling performance at a competitive price with a minimalist aesthetic, the Kraken Z73 is a compelling option.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which cooler is better for overclocking?
A: Both coolers can handle overclocking, but the Ryujin II 360 might have a slight edge due to its more powerful pump and larger radiator.
Q: Which cooler is quieter?
A: The Kraken Z73 generally operates quieter, especially at idle and under light loads, due to its larger fans and lower RPMs.
Q: Which cooler is easier to install?
A: Both coolers have relatively easy installation processes, but the Kraken Z73 might be slightly easier due to its simpler design.
Q: Which cooler offers better RGB lighting?
A: Both coolers offer vibrant and customizable RGB lighting, but the Ryujin II 360 has a slight edge with its LCD screen and more aggressive lighting effects.
Q: Which cooler is better for a budget build?
A: The Kraken Z73 is a better option for a budget build due to its lower price point while still offering excellent cooling performance.
