NZXT Kraken 120

NZXT Kraken 120 Review & Specifications

The NZXT Kraken 120 by NZXT is a Liquid CPU cooler designed for compatibility with LGA 1150, LGA 1151, LGA 1155, LGA 1156, LGA 1200, LGA 1700, LGA 1851, AM5, AM4 sockets.

This liquid cooler uses a high-efficiency CPU block made of Copper for optimal heat transfer. It features a 120 radiator with dimensions of 120 x 152 x 32mm, paired with 1 fan(s) of 120 mm each. The fan(s) operate at a maximum speed of 2000 RPM with a noise level of 36.0 dBA, achieving a total airflow of 73.0 CFM. Please ensure your PC case can accommodate the radiator size and mounting configuration. You can check compatibility with our PC Builder, which filters cases based on radiator size. This cooler does not include RGB lighting, focusing instead on performance, reliability, and low acoustic output. The cooler is backed by a 3-year warranty, providing long-term reliability and manufacturer support.

Performance

NZXT Kraken 120 is a mid-range performance liquid CPU cooler suitable for CPUs with TDPs up to 200 W, providing a relative cooling performance score of 90.00%. It is primarily suited for mid-range gaming builds where external heat exhaust is advantageous. While it can be used in workstation setups, air coolers in this performance class often offer equal or better cooling with greater reliability and no risk of leakage. Liquid coolers in this category provide solid thermal performance but introduce additional complexity, including moving pumps and the need for long-term maintenance.

Cost-Effectiveness

In terms of performance per dollar, the NZXT Kraken 120 offers excellent value for a liquid cooler, achieving 44.5% efficiency relative to the best-performing air cooler in the performance-per-price category. Note: Liquid coolers generally have a lower performance-to-price ratio due to their more complex design and higher manufacturing costs. Despite this, this model represents an excellent cost-effective option for users seeking the benefits of liquid cooling.