AkG
Well-known member
- Joined
- Oct 24, 2007
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CPU cooling is typically broken into two categories: air and water. Many feel like air-based heatsinks have reached a pinnacle and will only become marginally better if their size is increased dramatically. However, the water cooling segment has undergone a renaissance and revitalization as of late and NZXT’s new Kraken X40 and X60 are hoping to take advantage of this.
What was once the domain of hard-core enthusiasts has become accessible for the average consumer with numerous options tailor-made for their needs and skill levels. This is the era of All In One devices which are easy to use plug and play solutions, and don’t require maintenance or a degree in plumbing to install. However, compared to custom water cooling setups, the AIO’s usually are perceived as sacrificing performance for their increased adaptability, regardless of the advent of certain dual bay designs.
With the release of the new Kraken X40 and X60, NZXT hope to change this perception of inadequacy with two of the largest sealed water coolers to grace the marketplace. Instead of the standard 120mm and 240mm radiators the X40 makes use of a 140mm radiator, while the X60 has been given a massive 280mm radiator. These larger radiators are attached to Asetek’s latest waterblocks but the overall design of these units is clearly what sets them apart.
Of course, just like Corsair and their latest offerings, NZXT understands not everyone has the same priorities when it comes to performance versus noise. Instead of simply using the best hardware Asetek offers and calling it a day, NZXT have also included custom software which allows consumers to create the ‘perfect’ fan profile for their needs.
With prices of $99 and $139 respectively, hopefully the X40’s and X60’s unique blend of features and performance will allow the new Kraken series to carve out a niche in a rapidly expanding marketplace.
What was once the domain of hard-core enthusiasts has become accessible for the average consumer with numerous options tailor-made for their needs and skill levels. This is the era of All In One devices which are easy to use plug and play solutions, and don’t require maintenance or a degree in plumbing to install. However, compared to custom water cooling setups, the AIO’s usually are perceived as sacrificing performance for their increased adaptability, regardless of the advent of certain dual bay designs.

With the release of the new Kraken X40 and X60, NZXT hope to change this perception of inadequacy with two of the largest sealed water coolers to grace the marketplace. Instead of the standard 120mm and 240mm radiators the X40 makes use of a 140mm radiator, while the X60 has been given a massive 280mm radiator. These larger radiators are attached to Asetek’s latest waterblocks but the overall design of these units is clearly what sets them apart.
Of course, just like Corsair and their latest offerings, NZXT understands not everyone has the same priorities when it comes to performance versus noise. Instead of simply using the best hardware Asetek offers and calling it a day, NZXT have also included custom software which allows consumers to create the ‘perfect’ fan profile for their needs.
With prices of $99 and $139 respectively, hopefully the X40’s and X60’s unique blend of features and performance will allow the new Kraken series to carve out a niche in a rapidly expanding marketplace.

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