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NZXT · 280 mm liquid cooler · 280 mm radiator

NZXT Kraken 280

2 fans · 34 dBA · RGB

Performance
94%
Perf / price
23
Acoustics
56
Amazon
$178
NZXT Kraken 280
View NZXT Kraken 280 Gallery in high resolution
$178
Available on Amazon Updated Aug 30, 2026 Prime FBA
Performance94.0%
Performance / price23.2
Acoustics55.9
$178 on Amazon Cooler table Compare this cooler

Check this cooler in a buildSelect a CPU and case first so socket, height, and radiator support can be evaluated. Start with the CPU

Written analysis

NZXT Kraken 280 at a glance

The NZXT Kraken 280 is a 280 mm liquid cooler cooler listed as 280 mm radiator. It is listed with 2 140 mm fans.

Review-derived relative cooling performance is 94.0%. Recorded noise is 34 dBA, for an acoustics score of 55.9. Airflow is listed at 99 CFM. Warranty is 6 years.

Best fit: High-TDP CPUs and sustained workloads where cooling headroom matters most.

Fitment and sockets

Radiator class is 280 mm — confirm case radiator support. Socket compatibility includes LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1156, LGA 1200, LGA 1700, LGA 1851, AM5, AM4, sTRX4, TR4. CPU block / cold plate: Copper.

Current value

At $178, performance / price is 23.2. Compare nearby coolers of the same type below; quieter acoustics and fitment can outweigh a small score gap.

Cooler data

Full specifications

Cooling type, fitment, sockets, fans, acoustics, features, and value in one technical sheet.

General

Manufacturer
NZXT
Cooler
NZXT Kraken 280
Warranty
6 years
Launch price
—
Amazon price
$178
Amazon availability
Available
Price updated
Aug 30, 2026

Cooling type & fit

Type
280 mm liquid cooler
Size class
280 mm radiator
Height
27 mm
Radiator class
280 mm
Radiator dimensions
321 x 137 x 27 mm

Value

Amazon price
$178
Relative performance
94.0%
Performance / price
23.2
Acoustics
55.9

Sockets & block

Socket compatibility
LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1156, LGA 1200, LGA 1700, LGA 1851, AM5, AM4, sTRX4, TR4
CPU block
Copper

Fans & acoustics

Fan size
140 mm
Fan count
2
Fan speed
2000 rpm
Noise
34 dBA
Airflow
99 CFM
Acoustics score
55.9

Features

RGB lighting
Yes
Thermal paste included
No
Display
Display Orientation:Software adjustable Default, +90, +180, and -90 Degrees Display Panel Active Area:1.54" (39.1mm) Display Resolution:240 x 240 px Display Brightness:300 cd/m² Display Panel Type:Transmissive TFT, 262K color
Color
Black

Additional information

Also listed as
Kraken 280

Amazon

Price history

Nearby performance

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Vendor copy

Amazon listing details

Marketplace feature text kept for reference. Structured specifications above are the source for scores and comparisons.

PERSONALIZATION THAT POPS: Display a favorite animated GIF or static image, monitor real-time PC performance metrics, see music that's currently playing, integrate web content and more with NZXT CAM software.

LCD DISPLAY: 1.54" square LCD display with 240x240 resolution, 30 Hz refresh rate, and bright 300 cd/m² backlight brings on-screen content to life.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE PUMP: The powerful Asetek pump operates at up to 2,800 RPM to ensure efficient and quiet coolant circulation.

POWERFUL COOLING: Static Pressure Fans with fluid dynamic bearings provide an optimal balance of high static pressure and airflow for powerful cooling with minimal noise.

SIMPLE SETUP: A single breakout cable from pump to motherboard makes for easy installation.

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