The Ultimate Showdown: ASUS ROG Strix LC 360 vs NZXT Kraken Z73 – Which AIO Cooler Reigns Supreme?
What To Know
- The ROG Strix LC 360 is typically slightly more expensive, but it offers a higher cooling capacity and a more feature-rich design.
- The Kraken Z73, on the other hand, provides excellent cooling performance and a more customizable aesthetic for a slightly lower price.
- The ROG Strix LC 360 has a slight edge in fan performance, thanks to its optimized fan design and higher RPM range.
In the realm of PC cooling, two titans stand tall: the ASUS ROG Strix LC 360 and the NZXT Kraken Z73. Both AIO (all-in-one) coolers boast exceptional performance and innovative features, promising to keep your high-powered rig running cool and quiet. But which one deserves a place in your system? Let’s dive into their key differences and determine the ultimate winner.
Design and Aesthetics
The ASUS ROG Strix LC 360 exudes a sleek and stealthy aesthetic with its blacked-out design and angular accents. The NZXT Kraken Z73, on the other hand, flaunts a more vibrant and customizable look, featuring a mirror-finished pump head and customizable RGB lighting. Ultimately, the choice between these two comes down to personal preference.
Cooling Performance
When it comes to raw cooling performance, both the ROG Strix LC 360 and Kraken Z73 deliver exceptional results. Both coolers utilize large 360mm radiators with high-density fin arrays to maximize heat dissipation. However, the ROG Strix LC 360 has a slight edge in this department, thanks to its optimized fan design and slightly higher RPM range.
Noise Levels
Noise is a crucial factor to consider when choosing an AIO cooler. The ASUS ROG Strix LC 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 both employ advanced noise-canceling technologies to minimize fan noise. The Kraken Z73 has a slight advantage here, as its fans utilize a quieter bearing design.
Features and Software
Beyond cooling performance, both the ROG Strix LC 360 and Kraken Z73 offer a range of additional features and software. The ROG Strix LC 360 comes with a built-in OLED display that can be customized to show system information or animated graphics. The Kraken Z73, on the other hand, features an interactive LCD screen that allows you to display images, GIFs, and system stats.
In terms of software, the ASUS Armoury Crate and NZXT CAM software suites provide comprehensive control over cooler settings, fan speeds, and RGB lighting. Both software suites are user-friendly and offer a wide range of customization options.
Price and Value
The ASUS ROG Strix LC 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 are both premium AIO coolers with commensurate price tags. The ROG Strix LC 360 is typically slightly more expensive, but it offers a higher cooling capacity and a more feature-rich design. The Kraken Z73, on the other hand, provides excellent cooling performance and a more customizable aesthetic for a slightly lower price.
Verdict: Which AIO Cooler is Right for You?
Choosing between the ASUS ROG Strix LC 360 and NZXT Kraken Z73 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize maximum cooling performance, the ROG Strix LC 360 is the slightly better choice. However, if you value aesthetics, customization, and a slightly lower price point, the NZXT Kraken Z73 is the more suitable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which AIO cooler has better fan performance?
A: The ROG Strix LC 360 has a slight edge in fan performance, thanks to its optimized fan design and higher RPM range.
Q: Which AIO cooler is quieter?
A: The Kraken Z73 has a slight advantage in noise levels, as its fans utilize a quieter bearing design.
Q: Which AIO cooler has the best software support?
A: Both the ROG Strix LC 360 and Kraken Z73 have excellent software support, offering comprehensive control over cooler settings, fan speeds, and RGB lighting.
