Final Thoughts
Call it hype, or some other form of excitement, but we think NZXT has done a great job with the Kraken Z73, in both form and function. Aesthetically, we have a larger pump housing in the same layout we are accustomed to with NZXT. However, this time around we find a 2.36″ LCD screen where we once had an infinity mirror and RGB lighting. The Krakezn Z73, when paired up with NZXT’s CAM software, provides a ton of visualization options right out of the box, but the ability to customize the cooler’s screen with your own GIF brings things to a whole new level. Sure, we have seen small, single-color screens on motherboards and videocards, but nothing like this.
The build quality of the Krakzen Z73 is great, and on-par with what we have come to expect form NZXT. Just like the X63 we looked at earlier this year, the pump housing features 400mm cooling lines that attach via swiveling connectors for easy tubing routing. The Z73 mates up with a 27mm thick, 360mm radiator, where three 120mm Aer P fans are present to move air through the 24 fins-per-inch cooling fin array. The aluminum radiator body, paired up with a copper water block result in some of the best temperatures we have seen in our new cooling rig, which shows that NZXT wasn’t just looking to impress with form, but they were also interested in cooling performance as well.
CAM compatibility means you have full control over the LCD display and performance of the cooler all from a single pane of software. And while the Aer P fans aren’t RGB-enabled, they can be customized a bit by swapping out the color rings, though this is an added cost. The Kraken Z73 offers very easy installation, and we really like the inclusion of a physical manual that is easy to reference when needed. We also appreciate the versatility of the mounting brackets for both Intel and AMD systems, as they allow you to install the pump block in an orientation that makes the most sense for your individual components.
When it comes down to pricing, the NZXT Kraken Z73 can typically be found at our favorite online retailer for $279.99. While this product does have quite the price premium compared to other 360mm AIOs, one must keep in mind that the Kraken Z73’s LCD screen is a very unique feature. Having one will put you on the front lines of AIO technology, a standing that comes with a price. For great performance and innovative design, the NZXT Kraken Z73 earns a 9 out of 10 and the ThinkComputers Editor’s Choice Award.
Pros:
- Endless Customization via LCD Display
- Impressive Performance
- NZXT CAM Compatibility
- SATA Powered
- Easy Installation
Cons:
- Price
- No RGB Fans Included