Looking Beyond the NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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You are looking for nzxt kraken elite 240 RGB alternatives. The original model offers a 2.36-inch LCD with 640x640 resolution and a pump speed of 2800 RPM. It provides a compact 240mm white design with RGB lighting. These specs suit builders who want visual monitoring in a small footprint.
However, you might need a different size, color, or brand. Some cases cannot fit a 240mm radiator. Others require white aesthetics or specific socket support like AM4. The alternatives listed here share overlapping specifications with the original. They include 360mm radiators, different pump speeds, and varied display sizes. This list helps you find a cooler that matches your case dimensions and cooling needs without compromising on essential features.
Our top pick: NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White LCD Cooler.
How the Alternatives Compare
NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB AIO Cooler
The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB shifts from a 240mm radiator to a larger 360mm format measuring 15.8 inches long. It increases your visual area with a 2.72-inch IPS display, compared to the 2.36-inch 640x640 screen on the original 240mm model. You gain more cooling area and a bigger screen for monitoring hardware metrics. However, you give up the compact 240mm footprint and the all-white finish, as this unit comes in black and weighs more at 5.51 pounds versus 4.41 pounds. You should pick this alternative if your PC case accommodates a triple-fan 360mm radiator and you prefer a dark color scheme with expanded display dimensions.
NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB White
The NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB White matches the white aesthetic of the original unit while upgrading radiator size to a 360mm layout. You get an expanded 2.72-inch 60 Hz IPS display, which provides a larger visual readout than the original 2.36-inch screen. The single-frame design also maximizes radiator coverage across three fan mounts. You give up the space savings of a 240mm configuration, since this 15.7-inch unit weighs 5.51 pounds compared to the 4.41-pound original. You should choose this cooler if you want maximum cooling volume in a white build and your chassis has dedicated mounting space for a triple-fan liquid setup.
The NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB Cooler keeps the 240mm radiator form factor but introduces a black chassis and simplified single-frame fan cabling. At 1.1 pounds, it is considerably lighter than the 4.41-pound original cooler. However, you give up screen real estate and resolution. This unit includes a 1.54-inch pump display, which is noticeably smaller than the 2.36-inch 640x640 LCD on the Elite model. You also lose the all-white exterior theme. You should pick this alternative if you need a standard 240mm closed-loop cooler with basic on-pump graphic tracking, simpler wire management, and do not require high-resolution panel specifications.
The PrimoChill ZEAGINAL Z16 Distro Plate replaces a self-contained closed-loop cooler with a specialized custom loop component. It integrates a dedicated pump and 5V addressable RGB lighting channels directly into a 5-pound distribution plate. Unlike the Kraken Elite 240, it is not a complete all-in-one liquid system. You give up the 240mm radiator, pre-installed RGB Core fans, CPU mounting brackets, and the 2.36-inch LCD screen. You must also supply your own tubing, radiators, and water blocks. You should pick this unit only if you are constructing an open custom cooling loop specifically planned around the layout of the ZEAGINAL Z16 chassis.
The Bykski Phanteks Evolv Shift X Distro Plate is an open-loop reservoir and armored DDC pump assembly rather than a closed-loop cooler. It provides dedicated fluid channels and RGB lighting specifically fitted to the Phanteks Shift X enclosure. In contrast to the plug-and-play Kraken Elite 240, this unit includes no radiator, fans, or CPU block, and it omits an LCD screen. It is also significantly heavier at 10 pounds. Furthermore, it restricts radiator thickness to 30mm within that specific case. You should select this option if you are planning a tailored custom liquid loop in the Shift X and require an integrated DDC pump distribution block.
The ASUS ROG Strix SLC IV 360 ARGB steps up from a 240mm radiator to a 360mm size with pre-assembled ARGB fans. Its central standout is a 5.08-inch IPS display, which dwarfs the 2.36-inch 640x640 screen on the Kraken Elite. It also features a Q-Connector to consolidate fan and lighting cables. However, you give up the white color scheme and the compact installation footprint of a dual-fan cooler, as this 4.92-pound unit requires 15.6 inches of radiator mounting clearance. Choose this model if your enclosure supports a 360mm radiator, you prefer a black finish, and you want an exceptionally large pump display for system readouts.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White LCD Cooler
Best for: white builds needing a compact LCD cooler
- Radiator Size
- 240mm
- Socket Compatibility
- Intel, AMD
- Display Size
- 2.36"
- Display Resolution
- 640x640
- Pump Speed
- 2800 RPM
- Lighting Type
- RGB
This 240mm white all-in-one liquid cooler pairs dual RGB Core fans with an Asetek pump running up to 2800 RPM. You monitor hardware temperatures or display images on the 2.36-inch, 640x640 LCD screen with a 60Hz refresh rate. It suits you if you need a compact dual-fan radiator with a high-resolution display and mounting support for AMD and Intel sockets inside an all-white case.
Pros
- 2.36-inch LCD screen with 640x640 resolution and 60Hz refresh rate
- Asetek pump with three-phase motor operating up to 2800 RPM
- RGB Core fans equipped with hydrodynamic bearings
- Mounting hardware included for both Intel and AMD sockets
Cons
- 240mm radiator has less surface area than 360mm alternatives
- Full display customization requires NZXT CAM software
Good fit if
- You need a 240mm radiator for a white PC enclosure.
- You want a 640x640 60Hz screen for real-time telemetry or GIFs.
- You build on standard Intel or AMD processor sockets.
Skip if
- You have chassis space and clearance for a larger 360mm radiator.
- You prefer cooling hardware that does not rely on desktop software.
Verdict: NZXT Kraken Elite 240 White LCD Liquid Cooler delivers a 640x640 display and a 2800 RPM Asetek pump in a compact 240mm white format. It offers clear visual monitoring and balanced cooling without occupying larger triple-fan radiator mounts.
NZXT Kraken 240 RGB White AIO Cooler
Best for: white cases needing 240mm LCD liquid cooling
- Radiator Size
- 240mm
- Display Size
- 1.54"
- Display Resolution
- 240x240
- Pump Speed
- 2,800 RPM
- Lighting Type
- RGB
- Dimensions
- 4.84 × 10.8 × 1.18 inches
This 240mm all-in-one liquid cooler pairs dual RGB Core fans with an integrated 1.54-inch square LCD screen. Its pump runs up to 2,800 RPM, and setup relies on a single breakout cable. You can track performance metrics or show static images using NZXT CAM software. It fits your build if you want LCD monitoring in a white 240mm form factor.
Pros
- 1.54-inch square LCD display with 240x240 resolution and 300 cd/m² brightness
- Asetek pump running at speeds up to 2,800 RPM
- RGB Core fans equipped with fluid dynamic bearings
- Single breakout cable connects pump directly to motherboard
Cons
- Display refresh rate is limited to 30 Hz
- Radiator surface area is smaller than 360mm cooling options
Good fit if
- You need a white 240mm cooler that displays system metrics on the pump cap.
- You want simplified wiring via a single breakout cable.
Skip if
- You have space for a larger 360mm radiator.
- You want display animations running higher than 30 Hz.
Verdict: NZXT Kraken 240 RGB White AIO Cooler fits builders who want a white dual-fan setup with an integrated status screen for essential system stats.
NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB AIO Cooler
Best for: builders wanting a 360mm LCD liquid cooler
- 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
- 15.8 × 4.72 × 1.06 inches
This 360mm liquid cooler expands radiator area over standard 240mm units. It features a 15.8-inch radiator with an integrated single-frame RGB Core fan setup and an NZXT Turbine pump. You get a 2.72-inch IPS LCD display running at 640 by 640 resolution with a 60 Hz refresh rate for system telemetry. It suits you if your PC case accommodates a triple-fan radiator and you want detailed hardware tracking.
Pros
- 2.72-inch IPS LCD screen with 640 x 640 resolution and 60 Hz refresh rate
- 360mm radiator length (15.8 inches) provides larger cooling surface area
- RGB Core single-frame fan design simplifies mounting and wiring
- Compatible with Intel LGA 1851/1700/1200/115X and AMD AM5/AM4 sockets
Cons
- 15.8-inch radiator length requires a PC case with 360mm mount support
- Lacks support for older Intel sockets prior to LGA 115X or AMD sockets prior to AM4
Good fit if
- You have a PC chassis with clearance for a 15.8-inch, 360mm radiator.
- You want an onboard 2.72-inch display for monitoring real-time system performance.
- You use an Intel LGA 1851/1700/1200/115X or AMD AM5/AM4 motherboard.
Skip if
- You have a compact case restricted to 240mm or smaller radiator mounts.
- You run legacy processor sockets not covered by AM4, AM5, or modern LGA mounting.
Verdict: NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB Cooler with LCD delivers a larger 360mm radiator format paired with a sharp 2.72-inch IPS display. It is an effective step up if your case can accommodate its 15.8-inch footprint.
NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB White
Best for: white PC builds needing high cooling capacity
- 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
This 360mm all-in-one liquid cooler upgrades radiator surface area over standard 240mm units. You get a 2.72-inch IPS display with 640 by 640 resolution and a 60 Hz refresh rate, paired with an integrated RGB Core single-frame fan assembly and an NZXT Turbine pump. It suits your build if you have chassis clearance for a 15.7-inch radiator and want hardware monitoring inside a white chassis.
Pros
- 2.72-inch IPS LCD screen with 640 x 640 resolution and 60 Hz refresh rate
- 360mm radiator with integrated RGB Core single-frame fan
- NZXT Turbine pump engineered for high flow rate and pressure
- Tool-free mounting brackets and pre-applied thermal paste included
Cons
- 15.7-inch radiator length requires a larger chassis than 240mm models
- Single-frame fan design prevents installing separate standard 120mm fans
Good fit if
- You have chassis clearance for a 15.7-inch, 360mm radiator.
- You want a 2.72-inch 60 Hz IPS LCD to track system stats or display media.
- You are building an AMD AM4/AM5 or Intel LGA 1700/1851 system in white.
Skip if
- You are building in a compact case that only accommodates 240mm coolers.
- You plan to mount your own separate 120mm radiator fans.
Verdict: NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB White AIO Cooler expands cooling capacity with a 360mm radiator and delivers high-resolution visual tracking via its 2.72-inch 60 Hz IPS display. It provides a clean, single-frame white aesthetic for compatible full-size and mid-tower builds.
Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm AIO
Best for: AM4 builds needing 240mm cooling
- Radiator Size
- 240mm
- Fan Speed
- 800 to 1900 RPM
- Lighting Type
- RGB
- Socket Compatibility
- AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, LGA 1200
- Dimensions
- 10.7 × 4.86 × 1.06 inches
- Weight
- 2.2 pounds
The Lian Li Galahad 240mm AIO features a triple-chamber pump design to reduce friction and prevent leaks. It includes 35 addressable RGB LEDs and 120mm ARGB fans that reach 1900 RPM for 69.17 CFM airflow. The high-density aluminum radiator has 14 rows of tubes. It supports AM4, AM5, and Intel sockets. This cooler suits users who want reliable cooling with customizable lighting effects.
Pros
- Triple-chamber pump design reduces friction and prevents leaks
- 35 addressable RGB LEDs in the block
- Fans reach 1900 RPM with 69.17 CFM airflow
- High-density aluminum radiator with 14 rows of tubes
- Supports AM4, AM5, LGA 1700, and LGA 1200 sockets
Cons
- 240mm radiator size offers less cooling surface than 360mm options
- Includes an LED controller rather than direct motherboard sync
- No mention of software control for fan curves or lighting
Good fit if
- You need a cooler that supports AM4 sockets
- You want a 240mm radiator for smaller cases
- You prefer hardware-based lighting control via included controller
Skip if
- You require a 360mm radiator for maximum cooling performance
- You want direct software control for fans and RGB
- You need support for newer Intel sockets like LGA 1851
Verdict: The Lian Li Galahad 240mm AIO fits builders needing AM4 support and a compact 240mm solution with robust pump design. It is a solid choice for those prioritizing leak prevention and included lighting control over software integration.
NZXT Kraken 280 RGB White AIO
Best for: 280mm radiator builds with LCD preference
- Radiator Size
- 280mm
- Display Size
- 1.54"
- Display Resolution
- 240x240
- Pump Speed
- 2,800 RPM
- Lighting Type
- RGB
- Dimensions
- 16.9 × 6.22 × 8.23 inches
The NZXT Kraken 280 RGB is a 280mm AIO liquid cooler featuring a 1.54-inch square LCD display. It uses an Asetek pump rated for 2,800 RPM and RGB Core Fans with fluid dynamic bearings. The single breakout cable simplifies installation. This white model suits users seeking a balance between the 240mm options and larger 360mm radiators, offering customizable visuals and efficient coolant circulation.
Pros
- 1.54-inch square LCD with 240x240 resolution
- Asetek pump operates up to 2,800 RPM
- RGB Core Fans with fluid dynamic bearings
- Single breakout cable for easy setup
Cons
- 280mm radiator size limits compatibility with some cases
- LCD refresh rate is only 30 Hz
- Backlight brightness is 300 cd/m²
Good fit if
- You need a 280mm radiator for your case
- You want an LCD display for system monitoring
- You prefer a white aesthetic for your build
Skip if
- Your case only supports 240mm radiators
- You require a 360mm radiator for high heat loads
- You do not want an LCD screen on the pump
Verdict: NZXT Kraken 280 RGB AIO provides a middle-ground size with a distinctive square LCD display. It fits builders who want more cooling capacity than a 240mm unit but lack space for a 360mm radiator.
NZXT Kraken Elite 360 White
Best for: Spacious cases with white aesthetics
- Radiator Size
- 360mm
- Display Size
- 2.36"
- Lighting Type
- RGB
- Dimensions
- 15.5 × 1.06 × 4.76 inches
- Weight
- 3.57 pounds
This white 360mm AIO features a 2.36-inch LCD screen on the pump head for custom images. It uses F RGB Core fans with a USB-connected LED controller for synchronized lighting. The tubes have a nylon braided sleeve and low-permeability rubber to reduce evaporation. It suits users who want a large cooling surface and a customizable display in a white build.
Pros
- 360mm radiator size for high heat dissipation
- 2.36-inch LCD screen for custom image display
- F RGB Core fans with USB LED controller
- Nylon braided tubing for durability
Cons
- Heavier at 3.57 pounds than 240mm alternatives
- Requires CAM software for display customization
- Larger physical dimensions than 240mm models
Good fit if
- You need a 360mm radiator for high-end CPUs
- You want a white aesthetic for your case
- You prefer a customizable LCD display on the pump
Skip if
- Your case only fits 240mm radiators
- You prefer a simpler setup without software control
- You want a lighter cooler for small form factor builds
Verdict: NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB White is a solid choice for users with spacious cases who want a large 360mm radiator and a customizable LCD display to match their white theme.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White LCD Cooler | NZXT Kraken 240 RGB White AIO Cooler | NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB AIO Cooler | NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB White | Lian Li GALAHAD 240mm AIO | NZXT Kraken 280 RGB White AIO | NZXT Kraken Elite 360 White |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 240mm | 240mm | 360mm | 360mm | 240mm | 280mm | 360mm |
| Socket Compatibility | Intel, AMD | not specified | AM5, AM4, LGA 1851/1700, 1200/115X | AM5, AM4, LGA 1851/1700, 1200/115X | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Display Size | 2.36" | 1.54" | 2.72-inch | 2.72-inch | not specified | 1.54" | 2.36" |
| Display Resolution | 640x640 | 240x240 | 640 x 640 | 640 x 640 | not specified | 240x240 | not specified |
| Pump Speed | 2800 RPM | 2,800 RPM | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2,800 RPM | not specified |
| Fan Speed | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 800 to 1900 RPM | not specified | not specified |
| Lighting Type | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB |
| Lighting | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB | RGB |
| Display | LCD Screen | LCD Screen | LCD Screen | LCD Screen | not specified | LCD Screen | LCD Screen |
| Size | 240Mm | 240Mm | 360mm Radiator | 360mm Radiator | 240Mm | 280mm | 360mm Radiator |
| Dimensions | 7.87 × 13.8 × 11.8 inches | 4.84 × 10.8 × 1.18 inches | 15.8 × 4.72 × 1.06 inches | 4.72 × 1.06 × 15.7 inches | 10.7 × 4.86 × 1.06 inches | 16.9 × 6.22 × 8.23 inches | 15.5 × 1.06 × 4.76 inches |
| Weight | 4.41 pounds | 2.87 pounds | 5.51 pounds | 5.51 pounds | 2.2 pounds | 4.41 pounds | 3.57 pounds |
| Color | white | White | Black | White | Black | White | White |
| Model | RL-KR24E-W1 | RL-KR240-W1 | RL-KR36E-B2 | RL-KR36E-W2 | GA240B | RL-KR280-W1 | RL-KR36E-W1 |
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the standard Kraken 240 RGB and the Kraken Elite 240 RGB?
The standard NZXT Kraken 240 RGB features an integrated status screen for essential system stats, while the Elite version uses a 640x640 LCD display. The standard model RL-KR240-W1 weighs 2.87 pounds, compared to the 4.41-pound Elite model RL-KR24E-W1. Both units use 240mm radiators and include RGB lighting.
Can you choose a 360mm alternative in white?
Yes, you can choose the NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB White. This model features a 360mm radiator format paired with a 2.72-inch 60 Hz IPS display. It measures 15.7 inches in length and weighs 5.51 pounds, providing higher cooling capacity if your PC case supports a triple-fan radiator mounting.
What pump speed does the NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB use?
The NZXT Kraken Elite 240 White LCD cooler is equipped with a 2800 RPM Asetek pump. This pump circulates liquid through the 240mm radiator assembly to manage CPU heat while maintaining consistent flow rates. It works alongside dual RGB fans to cool hardware inside compact desktop builds.
Are distro plates good alternatives to an all-in-one liquid cooler?
Distro plates serve custom open-loop systems rather than closed-loop all-in-one setups. Options like the PrimoChill ZEAGINAL Z16 or Bykski plates include integrated pump mounting and RGB lighting. However, you must route dedicated tubing, add separate radiators, and install individual fittings designed for your specific computer case.
Which cases are compatible with the Bykski distro plate alternatives?
The listed Bykski distribution plates are engineered for specific chassis models rather than universal mounting. One model fits the Phanteks Evolv Shift X, while another is built for the Lian Li O11 Air Mini. Both models support DDC pumps and require radiators that do not exceed 30mm in thickness.
How much clearance do you need for a 360mm Kraken Elite alternative?
You need at least 15.8 inches of internal clearance for the NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB. The radiator assembly measures 15.8 inches long, 4.72 inches wide, and 1.06 inches thick. You must confirm that your PC case provides dedicated mounting brackets capable of supporting this triple-fan length.