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To test the performance of the NZXT Kraken X40, we built a powerful X79 based system on an open test bench to push the cooler to it's limits. As we were testing on an open test bench, we directed a Be Quiet! Shadow Wings 120 mm fan at the VRM circuitry to better simulate the airflow generated in a case.
We tested the Kraken X40 and X60 in both the ‘Silent' and ‘Extreme' modes in the software, as well as with the fans at maximum speed (2000 RPM).
Coolers Tested
- NZXT Kraken X60
- NZXT Kraken X40
- Corsair H110 (fans at 12V)
- Corsair H90 (fan at 12V)
- Phanteks PH-TC14PE (fans at 12V)
- Noctua NH-D14 (fans at 12V)
- Processor: Intel Core i7-3930K
- Motherboard: Asus P9X79
- Memory: 16 GB (4 x 4 GB) Mushkin Blackline 1600 MHz
- Thermal Paste: Arctic Cooling MX-2
- Graphics Card: AMD Radeon HD 7950
- Graphics Card (noise tests): HIS Radeon HD 5550 Silence
- Power Supply: Seasonic Platinum P1000W
- Prime 95 (64-bit)
- CPUID Hardware Monitor
Overclocking
We manually overclocked the i7-3930K to 4.7 GHz by increasing the multiplier to 47x, leaving the baseclock set at 100 MHz. We set Load Line Calibration to ‘High', and increased the CPU Current Capability to 120% with a minor voltage increase. Speed stepping was disabled for both stock and overclocked tests.
See validation here.
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.