KitGuru KitGuru.net – Tech News | Hardware News | Hardware Reviews | IOS | Mobile | Gaming | Graphics Cards
The similarities between the NZXT Kraken X40 and the Corsair H90 are extensive, as the same basic design is shared between the two. There are a couple of differences here and there which will attract different buyers however. Unlike the larger X60, the X40 is widely compatible and isn't restricted by the lack of industry fan spacings.
Here is a list put together by NZXT, highlighting case compatibility. As you can see there are plenty of cases on offer which provide support for the 140 mm X40.
The Kraken X40 shares it's CPU block design with the Corsair H90 as they are both based on an Asetek design. This features a large circular copper contact plate with screws all the way around. The thermal paste is pre-applied to the block to ensure the easiest possible installation procedure.
One way in which the X60 differs from the H110 is that it features LED-lighting in the pump cap. This can be configured through a software application which is supplied on a CD with the cooler. We will take a closer look at the software later in the review.
The CPU block is connected to the radiator using two flexible rubber tubes which are thick and feel durable. These are preferable to the more rigid FEP tubes which are found on other all-in-one liquid coolers such as the Cooler Master Seidon 120M.
One of the main differentiating factors between the X40 and the H90 is the fan bundled with the unit. The X40 features a two-tone black and white fan which is PWM controlled, spinning at a maximum of 2000 RPM. This is notably faster than the Corsair H90 fan which can only spin up to 1500 RPM.
Great looking cooler. They seem to be bringing out a lot of nice cases too.
I bought this last week and its brilliant. great value and handles my 3770k at 4.8ghz under 70c load.
close battle with Corsair with this one.
Unfortunately the NZXT compat guide is totally false. The systems listed, majority of them are not actually compatible. For example, the Corsair Carbide 500R. The guide will state rear compatibility, which is entirely not the case. There is no functional way for rear placement. As for top placement, there is barely enough room, but it works just about. Impossible for any push/pull config however.
When contacting NZXT about this, I was referred to Eric Henry the Tech Manager. He stated and I quote:
“We have the same case, here and I have tested it on it before responding to your email”.
I have had to make a video and take photos to prove he is lying and it doesnt fit. When called out on this, he said he must have made a mistake. Total and utter rubbish.
My warning to people, go with something that you know is going to fit. Buy something that is made by your case manufactor or is 12cm in size for a more guaranteed rear placement setup, because if you base your purchase off of their guide, they will pretty much tell you to bugger off, cut your own case up, and bother someone else.
As for product functionality itself, it works, so I guess thats a good part, just a shame I can’t return it for a refund and buy something that is compatible and has decent customer service.