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The NZXT Kraken X40 is a decent cooler which gives the Corsair H90 a run for it's money.
This latest Asetek design is clearly very capable and benefits from an inbuilt fan controller and configurable LED lighting like the top-end coolers from Corsair. While the implementation of the software control isn't quite as good as Corsair's, we expect it will improve with future generations.
The performance differences between the Kraken X40 and the H90 are clearly down to the different fan configurations of the two units. They feature identical radiators, pumps and tubing, with the only major difference being the fans included.
The NZXT fan looks and feels much better quality than the Corsair model and can spin faster. The unit didn't manage to sustain our overclock with the fan in ‘Silent' mode, though, which is disappointing for those looking to build a quiet, powerful system.
It's clear that the NZXT Kraken X40 has a major advantage over the H90 as it features an inbuilt fan controller and LED lighting system. However, this increases the cost of the unit significantly.
The Kraken X40 can be yours for £85 from Specialtech, making it around £15 more expensive than the H90. It's up to you to decide whether the NZXT Kraken X40 is worth the price premium, however we would be inclined to opt for the Corsair H90 as it offers a 5-year warranty, compared to the X40's 2-years.
Pros:
- Good performance.
- LED Lighting.
- Inbuilt fan controller.
Cons:
- 2 year warranty (compared to 5 years for Corsair units).
- Fairly noisy.
- Expensive.
KitGuru says: Another impressive cooler from NZXT.
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.