NZXT Kraken X41Overview
With all the packaging removed we have a standard assortment of items for an AIO. This includes the X41 itself as well as an NZXT brand 140mm fan, installation accessories for both AMD and Intel and a two page manual.
The included fan is an RF-FX142-NP with a claimed airflow of 42-106 CFM and static pressure ranging from .36-1.97mm. This should be enough to get the job done, but is in the middle range of static pressure for radiator fans. The noise range is 20-37 dBA from low to high speed, so even at the bottom end I wouldn’t expect this fan to be silent. Over all the fan has a really nice solid feel to it. It comes complete with anti vibration rubber dampers in all corners, is PWM controlled and of course is finished with a black housing and white blades typical of NZXT.
After the fan the only other performance part is the X41 itself. We find a 140mm radiator boasting a 36mm thickness matted to a small puck shaped pump by a generous amount of flexible rubber hosing. Attached to the pump are three leads with different connectors on each.
As mentioned the radiator is 140mm and has a generous surround built up around the fins themselves. Both sides are tapped for screws and up to two fans can be installed. Of course the X41 kit only comes with the single 140mm fan. As it is a slightly thicker radiator than most used in AIO kits, this unit benefits from needing slightly less fins per inch and should operate most optimally at slower fan speeds. Over all it is a well built radiator with a solid matte black finish.
At the other end of the 400mm of tubing we find the pump unit itself. As mentioned it is a low profile puck shape. Installed in the top of the pump is a color adjustable LED that illuminates from below a unique design and the NZXT logo when powered. The three leads provide power to the unit, connect it to a USB header on your motherboard, and also provide power for up to two fans. NZXT ships the X41 with the Intel bracket pre installed on the pump.
Protecting the business end of the pump is a formed plastic tray that stays in place well during installation. Removing this we find a circular bit of thermal material perfectly pre installed for your convenience. This grey material is directly on top of the copper cold plate that will pass heat from the CPU into the loop. It has a decent finish, but is not quite mirror smooth. And of course not a visible feature, but the pump itself is the worlds first in variable speed performance. The idea is that the pump will slow when the CPU runs cooler, further reducing noise. Having tested many AIO units we know first hand that if implemented correctly this could be ground-breaking in audible performance.
