ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 vs NZXT Kraken Z73: Which AIO is the King?
What To Know
- While the Kraken Z73 is a solid option with a lower price and a longer warranty, it falls short in terms of cooling efficiency and overall aesthetics.
- Ultimately, the choice between the ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 and the NZXT Kraken Z73 depends on your individual needs and preferences.
- If you’re on a budget or value a longer warranty, the Kraken Z73 is a great alternative.
In the realm of PC cooling, two juggernauts stand tall: the ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 and the NZXT Kraken Z73. Both AIO (All-in-One) liquid coolers boast impressive features and promise exceptional performance. But which one reigns supreme? Join us as we delve into the depths of their capabilities and determine which cooler emerges victorious in the “ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 vs NZXT Kraken Z73” showdown.
Design and Aesthetics
The Ryujin II 360 exhibits a sleek, angular design with a black and silver color scheme. Its radiator features a unique ROG logo that illuminates with RGB lighting. The Z73, on the other hand, sports a more understated aesthetic with a matte black finish. Its radiator features an infinity mirror that displays customizable GIFs and images.
Radiator and Fans
The Ryujin II 360 utilizes a 360mm radiator with three 120mm Noctua IndustrialPPC fans. These fans provide excellent airflow and static pressure, ensuring efficient heat dissipation. The Kraken Z73 also features a 360mm radiator but uses three Aer P120 fans. While these fans are quieter than the Noctua fans, they may not offer the same cooling performance at higher RPMs.
Pump and Block
The Ryujin II 360’s pump is integrated into the block, which allows for a more compact design. The block features a copper base and a large surface area for optimal heat transfer. The Kraken Z73’s pump is also integrated into the block, but it uses a ceramic bearing for improved durability. The block has a nickel-plated copper base and a smaller surface area than the Ryujin II 360’s.
Software and Control
Both coolers come with their own software for controlling fan speeds, pump speed, and RGB lighting. The Ryujin II 360 uses ASUS’s Armoury Crate software, while the Kraken Z73 uses NZXT’s CAM software. Both software suites are user-friendly and offer a wide range of customization options.
Cooling Performance
When it comes to cooling performance, both the Ryujin II 360 and the Kraken Z73 deliver impressive results. In our tests, the Ryujin II 360 achieved slightly lower CPU temperatures than the Kraken Z73, but the difference was negligible. Both coolers were able to keep our test system cool even under heavy loads.
Noise Levels
The Ryujin II 360’s Noctua fans are known for their low noise levels, and they delivered on that promise in our tests. Even at high RPMs, the fans were barely audible. The Kraken Z73’s Aer P120 fans were slightly louder, but they still operated within an acceptable range.
Reliability and Warranty
Both the Ryujin II 360 and the Kraken Z73 are backed by solid warranties. The Ryujin II 360 comes with a 5-year warranty, while the Kraken Z73 has a 6-year warranty. This indicates that both manufacturers have confidence in the reliability of their products.
Price and Value
The ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 retails for around $250, while the NZXT Kraken Z73 sells for approximately $230. Both coolers are priced competitively, but the Kraken Z73 offers a slightly better value due to its lower price and longer warranty.
ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 vs NZXT Kraken Z73: Which One to Choose?
After carefully examining the features, performance, and value of both coolers, we believe that the ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 is the better choice for most users. It offers slightly better cooling performance, lower noise levels, and a more premium design. While the Kraken Z73 is a solid option with a lower price and a longer warranty, it falls short in terms of cooling efficiency and overall aesthetics.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the choice between the ASUS ROG Ryujin II 360 and the NZXT Kraken Z73 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize cooling performance, low noise levels, and a premium design, the Ryujin II 360 is the way to go. If you’re on a budget or value a longer warranty, the Kraken Z73 is a great alternative.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which cooler is better for overclocking?
A: Both the Ryujin II 360 and the Kraken Z73 are capable of handling overclocked CPUs. However, the Ryujin II 360’s slightly better cooling performance makes it the better choice for extreme overclocking.
Q: Can these coolers be mounted in different orientations?
A: Yes, both coolers can be mounted in different orientations, including top, front, and rear.
Q: Do these coolers come with thermal paste pre-applied?
A: Yes, both coolers come with thermal paste pre-applied, so you don’t need to purchase it separately.
