Asus ROG Ryujin II vs NZXT Kraken Z73: The Ultimate Liquid Cooling Showdown
What To Know
- Two formidable contenders in this arena are the ASUS ROG Ryujin II and the NZXT Kraken Z73.
- The ROG Ryujin II excels in aesthetics, noise levels, and software features, making it the ideal choice for enthusiasts seeking a premium cooling solution.
- On the other hand, the Kraken Z73 offers a great balance of performance, aesthetics, and value, making it a solid choice for most users.
In the realm of high-end PC cooling, liquid coolers reign supreme, offering exceptional thermal performance and aesthetics. Two formidable contenders in this arena are the ASUS ROG Ryujin II and the NZXT Kraken Z73. Both these coolers boast impressive features and specifications, but which one emerges as the superior choice? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricate details of each cooler, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and ultimately determining the winner.
Design and Aesthetics
ASUS ROG Ryujin II:
The ROG Ryujin II exudes a bold and futuristic design with its sharp angles and RGB-infused components. It features a 3.5-inch OLED display that can showcase system information, custom animations, and even GIFs. The included ROG Fan Controller allows for precise control over fan and pump speeds.
NZXT Kraken Z73:
The Kraken Z73 flaunts a sleek and modern aesthetic with its matte black finish and customizable LCD display. It boasts a compact design, making it suitable for smaller cases. The integrated NZXT CAM software provides comprehensive monitoring and control options.
Cooling Performance
ASUS ROG Ryujin II:
The Ryujin II employs a 360mm radiator with three 120mm Noctua Industrial PPC fans. These fans deliver exceptional airflow and static pressure, resulting in impressive cooling capabilities. The OLED display allows for real-time monitoring of coolant temperature and fan speeds.
NZXT Kraken Z73:
The Kraken Z73 utilizes a 360mm radiator with three 120mm Aer RGB 2 fans. These fans are renowned for their high airflow and low noise levels. The LCD display provides insights into coolant temperature, pump speed, and CPU utilization.
Noise Levels
ASUS ROG Ryujin II:
Despite its powerful fans, the ROG Ryujin II operates surprisingly quietly. The Noctua Industrial PPC fans are designed to minimize noise while maintaining high airflow. The OLED display can be used to adjust fan curves for further noise reduction.
NZXT Kraken Z73:
The Kraken Z73 also exhibits admirable noise levels. The Aer RGB 2 fans are engineered to provide a balance between airflow and acoustics. The LCD display allows for precise fan speed adjustments, enabling users to prioritize cooling performance or noise levels.
Software and Monitoring
ASUS ROG Ryujin II:
The ROG Ryujin II is compatible with the comprehensive ROG Armoury Crate software. It provides detailed monitoring of system parameters, including coolant temperature, fan speeds, and pump performance. The OLED display complements the software by displaying key information in real-time.
NZXT Kraken Z73:
The Kraken Z73 is managed by the user-friendly NZXT CAM software. It offers extensive monitoring and control options, enabling users to adjust fan curves, monitor coolant temperature, and track CPU utilization. The LCD display enhances the software by providing a visual representation of system data.
Compatibility and Installation
ASUS ROG Ryujin II:
The ROG Ryujin II is compatible with Intel LGA 115x, 1200, 1700, 2011, and 2066 sockets, as well as AMD AM4 and sTRX4 sockets. It comes with a pre-applied thermal paste and an intuitive mounting system for easy installation.
NZXT Kraken Z73:
The Kraken Z73 supports Intel LGA 115x, 1200, 1700, 2011, and 2066 sockets, along with AMD AM4 and sTRX4 sockets. It utilizes a reinforced mounting bracket and a pre-applied thermal paste for hassle-free installation.
Price and Value
ASUS ROG Ryujin II:
The ROG Ryujin II is priced slightly higher than the Kraken Z73. However, it offers a premium experience with its OLED display, Noctua Industrial PPC fans, and comprehensive software.
NZXT Kraken Z73:
The Kraken Z73 is more budget-friendly compared to the ROG Ryujin II. It provides excellent cooling performance, a customizable LCD display, and user-friendly software at a competitive price.
Which One is Right for You?
The ASUS ROG Ryujin II and NZXT Kraken Z73 are both exceptional liquid coolers with their unique strengths. The ROG Ryujin II excels in aesthetics, noise levels, and software features, making it the ideal choice for enthusiasts seeking a premium cooling solution. On the other hand, the Kraken Z73 offers a great balance of performance, aesthetics, and value, making it a solid choice for most users.
Questions You May Have
Q1: Which cooler offers better cooling performance?
A: Both coolers provide excellent cooling performance, but the ROG Ryujin II has a slight edge due to its Noctua Industrial PPC fans.
Q2: Which cooler is quieter?
A: Both coolers are relatively quiet, but the Kraken Z73 has a slight advantage with its Aer RGB 2 fans.
Q3: Which cooler has better software features?
A: The ROG Ryujin II has more comprehensive software features, including an OLED display and the ROG Armoury Crate software.
Q4: Which cooler is more compatible?
A: Both coolers support a wide range of Intel and AMD sockets, but the ROG Ryujin II has slightly better compatibility with older Intel sockets.
Q5: Which cooler is a better value for money?
A: The Kraken Z73 offers a better value for money, providing excellent performance and features at a more affordable price compared to the ROG Ryujin II.
