The Best NZXT Aio Liquid Coolers in 2026: 7 Picks
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You can find the best NZXT aio liquid coolers in this guide, which focuses on seven models from their Kraken lineup. These units come in 240mm, 280mm, and 360mm sizes. Most feature RGB lighting and LCD screens for customization. The top pick is the NZXT Kraken 280 RGB LCD, chosen for its balanced cooling and visual display in a mid-size form factor. We ranked these picks strictly by the specifications published on the listings. This approach ensures you get practical data for your build.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
NZXT Kraken 280 RGB LCD
Best for: 280mm cases needing LCD customization
- Radiator Size
- 280mm
- Display Size
- 1.54"
- Display Resolution
- 240x240
- Pump Speed
- 2,800 RPM
- Dimensions
- 19.7 × 19.7 × 11 inches
- Weight
- 4.41 pounds
The NZXT Kraken 280 is a 280mm AIO liquid cooler featuring a 1.54-inch square LCD display with 240x240 resolution. It uses an Asetek pump running up to 2,800 RPM and includes fans with fluid dynamic bearings for high static pressure. You get easy installation via a single breakout cable. This cooler suits builders who want a mid-range size with a customizable screen for system monitoring.
Pros
- 1.54-inch square LCD display with 240x240 resolution
- Asetek pump operates up to 2,800 RPM
- Fans use fluid dynamic bearings for high static pressure
- Single breakout cable simplifies motherboard connection
Cons
- 280mm radiator size fits fewer cases than 360mm options
- LCD refresh rate is limited to 30 Hz
- Backlight brightness is 300 cd/m²
Good fit if
- You need a 280mm radiator for your case
- You want a customizable LCD display for system metrics
- You prefer a single-cable pump connection for easier setup
Skip if
- You require a 360mm radiator for maximum cooling capacity
- You need a high-refresh-rate display for smooth animations
- You prefer a pump with a higher maximum RPM
Verdict: NZXT Kraken 280 RGB LCD offers a balanced mix of mid-size cooling and visual customization. It fits users who want a 280mm setup with a clear LCD for monitoring without the bulk of a 360mm unit.
NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White LCD Cooler
Best for: White builds with 240mm radiator space
- Radiator Size
- 240mm
- Display Size
- 2.36"
- Display Resolution
- 640x640
- Pump Speed
- 2800 RPM
- Lighting Type
- RGB
- Dimensions
- 7.87 × 13.8 × 11.8 inches
This 240mm AIO cooler features a 2.36-inch LCD with 640x640 resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. It uses an Asetek pump reaching 2800 RPM and RGB Core fans with hydrodynamic bearings. The white design suits builds needing clear visuals and efficient coolant circulation. It includes mounting hardware for Intel and AMD processors.
Pros
- 2.36-inch LCD with 640x640 resolution
- 60Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals
- Asetek pump reaches 2800 RPM
- RGB Core fans with hydrodynamic bearings
Cons
- Smaller 240mm radiator limits cooling headroom compared to 360mm options
- 2.36-inch display is narrower than larger LCD coolers
- Requires CAM software for full display functionality
Good fit if
- You want a white AIO with a clear LCD screen
- You have a mid-tower case that fits 240mm radiators
- You prefer an Asetek pump with high RPM settings
Skip if
- You need maximum cooling performance for extreme overclocking
- You prefer a larger display for detailed system monitoring
- You are building in a case that only supports 120mm radiators
Verdict: NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White offers a sharp LCD and efficient pump for users with 240mm radiator space. It fits white-themed builds needing clear visual feedback without the bulk of a 360mm unit.
NZXT Kraken Elite 360 White
Best for: White builds needing 360mm cooling capacity
- Radiator Size
- 360mm
- Display Size
- 2.36"
- Lighting Type
- RGB
- Dimensions
- 15.5 × 1.06 × 4.76 inches
- Weight
- 3.57 pounds
The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB is a white 360mm AIO liquid cooler featuring a customizable 2.36-inch LCD screen. It uses F RGB Core fans with USB-connected LED control for color and pattern adjustments. The pump head measures 4.76 inches in height and 1.06 inches in width. Nylon-braided tubing ensures durability and low permeability. This unit weighs 3.57 pounds and targets users wanting visual customization with high-capacity cooling.
Pros
- 360mm radiator size for high heat dissipation
- 2.36-inch customizable LCD display on the pump head
- F RGB Core fans with USB LED controller
- Nylon braided sleeve for tube durability
Cons
- 4.76-inch pump head height may obstruct tall RAM modules
- Requires CAM software for display and fan customization
- Heavier build at 3.57 pounds compared to standard AIOs
Good fit if
- You want a white aesthetic for your build
- You need a 360mm radiator for high-end CPUs
- You enjoy customizing pump head images via software
Skip if
- You have tall RAM sticks that block the pump head
- You prefer a simpler 240mm radiator setup
- You want a cooler without software dependency for basic operation
Verdict: NZXT Kraken Elite 360 White suits builders who prioritize visual flair and cooling capacity. Its large radiator and LCD screen make it ideal for high-performance rigs with compatible case dimensions.
NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB AIO Cooler
Best for: Users wanting a large LCD display and 360mm cooling
- Radiator Size
- 360mm
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1851/1700, 1200/115X
- Display Size
- 2.72"
- Display Resolution
- 640 x 640
- Lighting Type
- RGB
- Dimensions
- 15.8 × 4.72 × 1.06 inches
This 360mm AIO cooler features a large 2.72-inch IPS LCD with 640 x 640 resolution and a 60 Hz refresh rate. It uses a single-frame fan design for airflow and includes pre-applied thermal paste. The unit supports modern AMD and Intel sockets. It suits users who want a high-impact visual display on their CPU block without needing a larger radiator.
Pros
- 2.72-inch IPS LCD with 640 x 640 resolution
- 360mm radiator size for high heat loads
- Pre-applied thermal paste for quick installation
- Single-frame fan design for integrated RGB
Cons
- Heavier at 5.51 pounds than smaller variants
- No mention of dedicated software app control
- Limited to RGB lighting rather than addressable
Good fit if
- You want a large LCD screen on the pump head
- You have a case that fits a 360mm radiator
- You prefer a black finish for your build
Skip if
- You need a smaller 240mm radiator size
- You prefer a white color scheme
- You want a display larger than 2.72 inches
Verdict: NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB Black offers a high-resolution 2.72-inch LCD and robust 360mm cooling capacity. It fits users prioritizing visual impact and modern socket support in a black chassis.
NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB White
Best for: White high-end PC builds needing 360mm cooling
- Radiator Size
- 360mm
- Socket Compatibility
- AM5, AM4, LGA 1851/1700, 1200/115X
- Display Size
- 2.72-inch
- Display Resolution
- 640 x 640
- Lighting Type
- RGB
- Dimensions
- 4.72 × 1.06 × 15.7 inches
The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB is a white 360mm AIO liquid cooler designed for high-end builds. It features a large 2.72-inch IPS LCD screen with 640 x 640 resolution and 60 Hz refresh rate. The unit uses a custom Turbine pump for improved cooling efficiency. It includes RGB lighting on the fans and pump head. This cooler supports modern AMD and Intel sockets for easy installation.
Pros
- Large 2.72-inch IPS LCD display with 640 x 640 resolution
- 360mm radiator size for high heat dissipation
- Custom NZXT Turbine pump for efficient cooling
- White color option with RGB fan lighting
- Tool-free mounting for AM5, AM4, and Intel sockets
Cons
- Heavier at 5.51 pounds compared to smaller radiators
- Limited to 640 x 640 screen resolution
- No mention of wireless control or app integration
Good fit if
- You want a white AIO to match a white PC build
- You need a 360mm radiator for high-end CPUs
- You prefer a large LCD screen for system monitoring
Skip if
- You have a case that only fits 240mm radiators
- You prefer a black cooler over white
- You need a smaller 280mm or 240mm profile
Verdict: NZXT Kraken Elite 360 White AIO is a robust choice for users building high-performance white PCs who want a large display and 360mm cooling capacity.
NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB Cooler
Best for: compact builds needing LCD customization
- Radiator Size
- 240mm
- Socket Compatibility
- AM5, LGA 1851
- Display Size
- 1.54"
- Lighting Type
- RGB
- Dimensions
- 13.5 × 8.35 × 5.47 inches
- Weight
- 1.1 pounds
The NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB LCD is a 240mm AIO featuring a 1.54-inch square LCD screen. It uses a Turbine pump for high flow and includes RGB Core fans with single-frame design. The unit supports AM5 and LGA 1851 sockets with tool-free brackets. It suits you if you want customizable visuals on the pump head without the bulk of a 360mm radiator.
Pros
- 1.54-inch square LCD screen for custom images and system temps
- Turbine pump engineered for high flow and low noise
- Single-frame RGB Core fans with one cable for simple install
- Supports latest AM5 and LGA 1851 sockets
Cons
- 240mm radiator size limits cooling capacity compared to 360mm options
- Only available in Black color
- Requires NZXT CAM software for full LCD customization
Good fit if
- You need a 240mm radiator for smaller cases
- You want a customizable LCD display on the pump
- You prefer simplified cable management with single-frame fans
Skip if
- You require a 360mm radiator for maximum cooling performance
- You prefer a White color scheme
- You want a larger display screen than 1.54 inches
Verdict: NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB LCD offers a compact 240mm solution with a unique LCD pump head for users who prioritize visual customization and ease of installation over maximum cooling potential.
NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB Cooler
Best for: simple builds with 240mm radiator space
- Radiator Size
- 240mm
- Pump Speed
- 3,100 RPM
- Lighting Type
- RGB
- Dimensions
- 11 × 4.72 × 6.69 inches
- Weight
- 3.15 pounds
The NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB is a 240mm AIO liquid cooler designed for straightforward installation and efficient cooling. It features a pump running at 3,100 RPM and PWM-enabled fans for adjustable airflow. The single-frame design reduces cable clutter by housing multiple fans in one unit. This cooler suits builders who want reliable performance without complex controllers or extra wiring steps.
Pros
- Pump speed of 3,100 RPM for consistent cooling
- Single-frame design reduces screws and cables
- PWM-enabled fans allow precise speed adjustments
- Direct motherboard connection simplifies cable management
Cons
- Lacks an LCD display panel
- No software app or remote controller included
- 240mm radiator size limits cooling potential for high-end CPUs
Good fit if
- You prefer a clean build with minimal cables
- You want direct motherboard connectivity without extra controllers
- You need a 240mm radiator for your case
Skip if
- You require an LCD display for customization
- You need advanced software control for fans and pump
- You are cooling a high-end CPU that needs a 360mm radiator
Verdict: NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB Black is a practical choice for users who value simple installation and clean cable management over flashy displays or complex software control.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | NZXT Kraken 280 RGB LCD | NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White LCD Cooler | NZXT Kraken Elite 360 White | NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB AIO Cooler | NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB White | NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB Cooler | NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB Cooler |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 280mm | 240mm | 360mm | 360mm | 360mm | 240mm | 240mm |
| Socket Compatibility | not specified | not specified | not specified | AM4, AM5, LGA 1851/1700, 1200/115X | AM5, AM4, LGA 1851/1700, 1200/115X | AM5, LGA 1851 | not specified |
| Display Size | 1.54" | 2.36" | 2.36" | 2.72" | 2.72-inch | 1.54" | not specified |
| Display Resolution | 240x240 | 640x640 | not specified | 640 x 640 | 640 x 640 | not specified | not specified |
| Pump Speed | 2,800 RPM | 2800 RPM | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 3,100 RPM |
| Lighting Type | not specified | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB |
| Lighting | not specified | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB |
| Display | LCD Screen | LCD Screen | LCD Screen | LCD Screen | LCD Screen | LCD Screen | not specified |
| Size | 280mm | 240Mm | 360mm Radiator | 360mm Radiator | 360mm Radiator | 240Mm | 240Mm |
| Dimensions | 19.7 × 19.7 × 11 inches | 7.87 × 13.8 × 11.8 inches | 15.5 × 1.06 × 4.76 inches | 15.8 × 4.72 × 1.06 inches | 4.72 × 1.06 × 15.7 inches | 13.5 × 8.35 × 5.47 inches | 11 × 4.72 × 6.69 inches |
| Weight | 4.41 pounds | 4.41 pounds | 3.57 pounds | 5.51 pounds | 5.51 pounds | 1.1 pounds | 3.15 pounds |
| Color | Black | white | White | Black | White | Black | Black |
| Model | RL-KN280-B1 | RL-KR24E-W1 | RL-KR36E-W1 | RL-KR36E-B2 | RL-KR36E-W2 | RL-KR240-B2 | RL-KR24C-B1 |
The NZXT lineup at a glance
NZXT offers distinct cooling tiers based on radiator size and display technology. The Kraken Elite 240 RGB White LCD Cooler provides a compact 240mm option for white builds. It features an efficient pump and clear visual feedback without requiring extensive case space. This model suits users who need reliable performance in a smaller footprint.
For larger cases, the lineup expands with 360mm radiators. The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 White and the NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB AIO Cooler both deliver high cooling capacity. They include large LCD screens for detailed monitoring. These units are ideal for high-performance rigs where maximum heat dissipation and modern aesthetics are priorities.
Who NZXT Coolers Suit
NZXT targets builders who want visual customization alongside cooling performance. The range spans 240mm, 280mm, and 360mm radiators. Most models include RGB lighting and LCD screens for monitoring. You can choose black or white finishes to match your chassis. The Kraken Core 240 offers a simpler option without a display. However, the lineup lacks 120mm or 420mm sizes. It also does not offer non-LCD variants in the Elite series. This brand suits users prioritizing aesthetics and modern socket support in mid to large cases.
You can compare these radiator dimensions and fan specifications directly against the best ARCTIC CPU coolers.
How to choose the right AIO
-
Check radiator size first
You must match the radiator dimensions to your case support. The list includes 240mm, 280mm, and 360mm options. The NZXT Kraken 280 RGB LCD fits users who want a mid-size setup without the bulk of a 360mm unit. The NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White LCD Cooler suits builders with limited space. Measure your case mounting points carefully. Larger radiators generally offer more cooling surface area. Smaller units fit compact chassis better. Verify your case supports the specific length and width before buying.
-
Decide on display needs
Most models in this guide feature an LCD screen for customization. The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB AIO Cooler includes a high-resolution 2.72-inch display. This screen allows you to show system stats or custom images. The NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB Cooler lacks this display. It focuses on simple installation and clean cable management. Choose an LCD model if you want visual feedback. Select a non-LCD unit if you prefer a simpler setup. The screen adds a distinct visual element to your build.
-
Select color for aesthetics
Color matching your chassis is a key aesthetic choice. The NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White LCD Cooler is designed for white-themed builds. The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 White also suits high-performance white PCs. Black options like the NZXT Kraken 280 RGB LCD fit black chassis. The NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB Cooler is available in black. Ensure the pump head and radiator color complement your case. Mismatched colors can distract from your build theme. Check the product specs for the available color options before purchasing.
-
Consider lighting customization
RGB lighting adds visual flair to your liquid cooling loop. The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB AIO Cooler features RGB lighting on the pump head. The NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB Cooler also includes RGB elements. These lights can be synced with other components for a unified look. The NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB Cooler offers RGB lighting as well. If you do not care about lighting, you might choose a simpler model. RGB adds complexity to your software setup. It enhances the visual appeal of your system.
-
Evaluate weight and fit
The weight of the AIO affects case stress and mounting. The NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White LCD Cooler weighs 4.41 pounds. The NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB Cooler is lighter at 3.15 pounds. Heavier units require sturdy case mounting points. The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB AIO Cooler weighs 5.51 pounds. Ensure your case can support the weight of the pump head. Heavy pumps can strain motherboard sockets if not mounted properly. Check the weight specs to plan your build. Lighter units are easier to handle during installation.
Frequently asked questions
Which NZXT AIO has the best LCD screen size?
The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB A Cooler features a high-resolution 2.72-inch LCD. This display offers significant visual impact for users prioritizing screen real estate. It pairs this large screen with robust 360mm cooling capacity. This combination suits builders who want modern socket support and a black chassis aesthetic.
Is there a white NZXT AIO with a 240mm radiator?
Yes, the NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White LCD Cooler fits this need. It provides a sharp LCD and an efficient pump for users with limited 240mm space. This model is designed for white-themed builds that require clear visual feedback. It delivers performance without the bulk associated with larger 360mm units.
What is the lightest NZXT AIO on this list?
The NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB Cooler is the lightest option at 1.1 pounds. It offers a compact 240mm solution with a unique LCD pump head. This unit suits users who prioritize visual customization and ease of installation. It is ideal for compact builds where weight and space are critical factors.
Does the NZXT Kraken Core 240 have an LCD screen?
No, the data does not list an LCD screen for this model. The NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB Cooler focuses on simple installation and clean cable management. It includes RGB lighting but lacks the display features found in the Elite or Plus lines. This makes it a practical choice for straightforward builds.
Which NZXT AIO is best for a 280mm case?
The NZXT Kraken 280 RGB LCD is the top pick for 280mm setups. It balances mid-size cooling with visual customization through its LCD screen. This unit fits users who want monitoring capabilities without the bulk of a 360mm radiator. It is designed for cases that support 280mm radiators specifically.
Are there black options with 360mm radiators?
Yes, the NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB AIO Cooler is available in black. It features a 360mm radiator and a high-resolution 2.72-inch LCD screen. This model suits users who prioritize visual impact and modern socket support in a black chassis. It provides robust cooling capacity for high-performance systems.
What distinguishes the Kraken Elite 360 White from the Elite 360 RGB White?
Both models offer 360mm cooling and white finishes with LCD screens. The Elite 360 White suits builders prioritizing visual flair and capacity. The Elite 360 RGB White is a robust choice for high-performance white PCs. Both provide large displays and 360mm cooling, catering to users who want a cohesive white aesthetic with strong performance.