NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB Cooler provides balanced liquid cooling with its 240mm radiator and Turbine pump. When evaluating nzxt kraken plus 240 RGB alternatives, you start from a capable baseline featuring a 1.54-inch customizable LCD screen, a single breakout cable, and AM5 and LGA 1851 brackets. Its single-frame RGB Core fan streamlines installation using four screws and a single cable.
You might prefer different specifications, features, or brands depending on your hardware goals. A desktop build might need a larger 3.5-inch display, a white colorway, or simpler wiring without an LCD screen. Other configurations require full copper radiators with multiple ports for custom loops instead of a standard all-in-one unit. These 6 alternatives were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original model, sharing the 240mm radiator size alongside matching display or lighting hardware.
Comparing Each Kraken Plus Alternative
NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White LCD Cooler
The NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB swaps the black exterior for a white finish and replaces the Turbine pump with a 2800 RPM Asetek unit. It upgrades visual output with a 60Hz display for smoother animations. However, you give up the lightweight 1.1-pound build of the Kraken Plus, as the Elite weighs 4.41 pounds. It also omits the single-frame fan design that reduces cabling to four screws and one connection. You should pick the Kraken Elite 240 if you want an all-white cooling setup and prioritize a 60Hz screen refresh rate over the streamlined single-cable fan installation of the baseline model.
The Thermalright Grand Vision 240 ARGB features a 480x480 magnetic LCD screen and addressable RGB lighting instead of standard RGB. It broadens motherboard support to include AMD AM4 and Intel LGA 1700 sockets alongside AM5, making it suitable for older or current rigs. It also features a slim 1.06-inch radiator height. You give up the NZXT CAM ecosystem with its dedicated web integrations like Spotify and YouTube, as well as the single-frame fan layout and Turbine pump design. You should pick this cooler if you build on an AM4 or LGA 1700 platform and want a modular magnetic display with addressable RGB customization.
The Thermalright Grand Vision 240 White features a 3.4-inch IPS LCD screen, providing a significantly larger display area than the 1.54-inch screen on the Kraken Plus. It uses an all-white color scheme, ARGB lighting, and high-airflow fans while adding AM4 socket compatibility alongside AM5 and LGA 1851. You give up the NZXT CAM software integrations, the unified single-cable breakout system, and the NZXT Turbine pump. The radiator also stands taller at 2.17 inches. You should pick this unit if you want a white cooling assembly with an expansive 3.4-inch display panel and you use AM4, AM5, or LGA 1851 hardware.
NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB Cooler
The NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB increases pump rotational speed to 3,100 RPM and runs unified single-frame PWM fans directly from your motherboard. This setup avoids external fan controllers while retaining standard RGB illumination on the pump block. In exchange, you give up the 1.54-inch LCD screen entirely, losing on-pump GIF playback, system temperature tracking, and CAM web integrations. It is also heavier at 3.15 pounds compared to the 1.1-pound Kraken Plus. You should pick the Kraken Core 240 if you want straightforward motherboard fan control and high pump speeds without the added complexity or visual hardware of an integrated LCD display.
Alphacool NexXxos 240mm Full Copper Radiator
The Alphacool NexXxos 240mm Full Copper Radiator is a standalone liquid cooling component rather than a closed-loop cooler. It provides full copper thermal chambers and six G1/4-inch ports across a thicker 1.81-inch profile, maximizing surface area for custom dual-120mm fan configurations. Because it is strictly a radiator, you give up the pre-assembled Turbine pump, CPU block, tubing, 1.54-inch LCD, pre-applied thermal paste, and included RGB fans. At 1.32 pounds, it requires separate custom cooling hardware. You should pick this NexXxos radiator if you are constructing an open custom cooling loop and need multi-port copper heat exchange instead of an all-in-one package.
Alphacool NexXxos XT45 X-Flow 240mm Copper Radiator
The Alphacool NexXxos XT45 X-Flow 240mm Copper Radiator offers an end-to-end fluid path with six ports and full copper internal chambers. This design allows custom tube runs directly through your chassis across a 1.77-inch thick profile. However, this is a dedicated loop radiator weighing 1.03 kilograms. You give up the entire plug-and-play AIO ecosystem of the Kraken Plus, including the integrated pump, 1.54-inch LCD screen, AM5/LGA 1851 mounting brackets, and single-frame RGB fan assembly. You should pick this X-Flow radiator if you are designing a custom liquid loop that benefits from inline port routing and copper internals rather than an all-in-one cooler.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB Cooler
Best for: modern socket builds with LCD system tracking
- 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 Cooler is a closed-loop liquid cooler built around a 240mm radiator and the NZXT Turbine pump. It features a 1.54-inch square LCD screen for system metrics and media integrations, alongside a single-frame RGB fan unit connected by one cable. You get tool-free mounting for AMD AM5 and Intel LGA 1851 sockets. It suits you if you need compact liquid cooling with real-time status monitoring.
Pros
- Built-in 1.54-inch square LCD screen displays temps, GIFs, and web integrations via NZXT CAM
- Single-frame dual fan installs with four screws and uses one connection cable
- NZXT Turbine pump engineered for high coolant flow and head pressure
- Pre-applied thermal paste and single breakout cable simplify setup
- Tool-free mounting brackets included for AM5 and LGA 1851 sockets
Cons
- Listed socket compatibility is limited to AM5 and LGA 1851 platforms
- Integrated single-frame fan housing prevents replacing individual 120mm fans
- Screen size is limited to a 1.54-inch square viewing area
Good fit if
- You run an AM5 or LGA 1851 processor inside a 240mm radiator mount
- You want an onboard 1.54-inch screen for hardware metrics and media tracking
- You prefer minimal cable routing using a single breakout harness
Skip if
- You use legacy CPU sockets not listed in the hardware specifications
- You plan to mount separate third-party 120mm fans onto the radiator
- You require a display larger than 1.54 inches
Verdict: NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB LCD Cooler delivers balanced 240mm liquid cooling with a dedicated 1.54-inch status display and streamlined cable routing. It serves as a practical, direct baseline for modern AM5 and LGA 1851 desktop builds.
NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White LCD Cooler
Best for: white builds wanting a high-resolution LCD screen
- 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 is a 240mm all-in-one liquid cooler in white with an integrated 2.36-inch LCD screen. It features a 640x640 display resolution running at 60Hz with a 690cd/m² backlight brightness, alongside an Asetek pump operating at up to 2800 RPM. RGB Core fans use hydrodynamic bearings for airflow. You will find it suitable if you want detailed hardware monitoring, GIF playback, and clean aesthetics for your compact dual-fan PC build.
Pros
- 2.36-inch LCD with 640x640 resolution and 60Hz refresh rate
- Bright 690cd/m² display backlight
- Three-phase Asetek pump reaching up to 2800 RPM
- RGB Core fans equipped with hydrodynamic bearings
Cons
- Requires NZXT CAM software to manage screen content and metrics
- 240mm radiator provides less cooling area than 360mm models
- White enclosure limits color matching in dark chassis designs
Good fit if
- You want a 640x640 60Hz display for animations and performance metrics.
- You need a 240mm white cooler with mounting hardware for Intel or AMD.
- You want an Asetek pump reaching speeds up to 2800 RPM.
Skip if
- You prefer an all-black cooler for your system build.
- You require a larger radiator than 240mm for your case.
- You prefer not to use NZXT CAM software to manage cooler features.
Verdict: NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White Cooler delivers a high-clarity 60Hz display paired with a 2800 RPM Asetek pump. It provides reliable dual-fan cooling and deep visual customization for white PC builds.
NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB Cooler
Best for: simple cable routing without extra fan controllers
- 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 an all-in-one liquid cooler built with a 240mm radiator and a 3,100 RPM pump. It uses a single-frame fan design with PWM-controlled RGB Core fans that plug straight into your motherboard without an added controller hub. This setup suits you if you want streamlined cable management, standard RGB lighting, and direct motherboard control for your cooling hardware in 2026.
Pros
- 3,100 RPM maximum pump speed
- Single-frame fan assembly reduces mounting screws and cabling
- Direct motherboard connection eliminates external controllers
- PWM-enabled high static pressure RGB Core fans
Cons
- Lacks an LCD screen on the pump block
- Single-frame fan structure prevents replacing individual fans separately
Good fit if
- You want a 240mm AIO cooler with a 3,100 RPM pump.
- You prefer connecting fans directly to the motherboard without extra control boxes.
- You want a unified single-frame fan design for cleaner cabling.
Skip if
- You want a pump block with an integrated LCD screen.
- You need individual fan housings to mount fans independently.
Verdict: NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB Cooler provides a 3,100 RPM pump and unified single-frame PWM fans that connect directly to your motherboard. It is a straightforward alternative when you prefer basic RGB lighting and minimal cabling over an LCD display.
Alphacool NexXxos 240mm Full Copper Radiator
Best for: custom liquid loops needing multi-port copper radiators
- Radiator Size
- 240mm
- Material
- Copper
- Dimensions
- 4.88 × 11 × 1.81 inches
- Weight
- 1.32 pounds
View on Amazon: Alphacool NexXxos 240mm Full Copper Radiator
This component is a standalone 240mm liquid cooling radiator built for dual 120mm fan configurations. You get an all-copper core featuring copper fins, channels, and chambers, paired with brass threads and steel side panels. Measuring 46mm thick with six G1/4-inch ports, it gives you multiple routing options. It suits you if you want a modular radiator core rather than a closed-loop all-in-one system.
Pros
- Full copper construction across cooling fins, channels, and chambers
- Six G1/4-inch threaded ports for versatile loop plumbing
- Durable build with brass port threads and steel side panels
- 46mm core thickness for dual 120mm fan mounting
Cons
- Radiator unit only with no pump, CPU block, or fans included
- 46mm thickness requires more case clearance than slim radiators
- Weighs 1,199g without coolant or attached fans
Good fit if
- You are assembling a custom cooling loop with your own pump and tubing.
- You need six G1/4-inch port options to route tubing easily.
- You have internal case clearance for a 46mm-deep radiator.
Skip if
- You want a complete all-in-one AIO cooler with included fans and water block.
- You require a slim-profile radiator for tight compact enclosures.
Verdict: Alphacool NexXxos XT45 240mm Full Copper Radiator provides copper thermal chambers and six G1/4-inch ports for custom builds. Its 46mm profile offers solid heat dissipation surface area for dual 120mm fans.
Alphacool NexXxos XT45 X-Flow 240mm Copper Radiator
Best for: custom liquid cooling loop builders
- Radiator Size
- 240mm
- Material
- Copper
- Dimensions
- 11.5 × 4.88 × 1.77 inches
- Weight
- 1.03 kilograms
View on Amazon: Alphacool NexXxos XT45 X-Flow 240mm Copper Radiator
This component is a standalone 240mm liquid cooling radiator designed for custom loops rather than an all-in-one unit. You get copper construction across the cooling fins, channels, and chambers, paired with brass threads and steel side panels. Its 45mm thickness provides extra surface area over slim designs, while six G1/4-inch threaded ports offer flexible routing options. It suits you if you plan to build a custom cooling system from scratch.
Pros
- Full copper cooling channels, fins, and chambers
- Six G1/4-inch threaded connection ports
- 45mm radiator thickness for expanded cooling volume
- Durable steel side panels and brass threads
Cons
- Radiator only; does not include pump, CPU block, tubing, or fans
- 45mm thickness requires more case clearance than slim radiators
Good fit if
- You are assembling a modular custom liquid cooling loop.
- You need multiple G1/4-inch ports for versatile tubing routing.
- You have chassis clearance for a 45mm thick 240mm radiator.
Skip if
- You want a pre-assembled, closed-loop all-in-one CPU cooler.
- You have a compact case with clearance limited to slim radiators.
Verdict: Alphacool NexXxos XT45 240mm Copper Radiator provides full copper internal components and six ports for builder-designed custom loops. It serves as a dedicated hardware component rather than a plug-and-play all-in-one replacement.
Alphacool NexXxoS ST25 240mm Copper Radiator
Best for: Custom liquid cooling loops needing full copper
- Radiator Size
- 240mm
- Material
- Copper
- Dimensions
- 2.36 × 4.72 × 4.72 inches
- Weight
- 1.75 pounds
View on Amazon: Alphacool NexXxoS ST25 240mm Copper Radiator
The Alphacool NexXxoS ST25 240mm Copper Radiator is a standalone cooling component designed for custom liquid loops rather than an all-in-one unit. You get pure copper construction across the end chambers, water channels, and cooling fins. Weighing 1.75 pounds with a black finish, it suits you if you plan to assemble your own modular loop.
Pros
- Pure copper end chambers, water channels, and cooling fins
- Standard 240mm dual-fan form factor
- Lightweight build at 1.75 pounds
Cons
- Includes no integrated pump, CPU block, or tubing
- Does not come with cooling fans
- No integrated RGB lighting or LCD display
Good fit if
- You are building a custom liquid cooling loop instead of using a pre-assembled AIO.
- You want all-copper construction across the water channels and fins.
Skip if
- You need a plug-and-play all-in-one cooler with an attached pump and block.
- You want bundled fans, integrated RGB lighting, or an onboard LCD screen.
Verdict: Alphacool NexXxoS ST25 240mm Copper Radiator suits builders assembling a custom liquid loop who need an all-copper heat exchanger. It does not include the pump, CPU block, or fans required for a complete setup.
ASUS ROG Ryujin III 240 LCD Liquid Cooler
Best for: builders wanting a large on-pump LCD display
- Radiator Size
- 240mm
- Display Size
- 3.5"
- Fan Speed
- 2000 RPM
- Dimensions
- 19.7 × 19.7 × 11 inches
- Weight
- 3.31 pounds
This 240mm all-in-one liquid cooler pairs dual fans running up to 2000 RPM with an Asetek eighth-generation pump and an embedded pump fan. Its block integrates a 3.5-inch LCD screen for direct hardware monitoring. If you want a dual-fan closed loop with a large display and dedicated cooling for nearby motherboard components, this unit fits your build.
Pros
- Integrated 3.5-inch LCD screen on pump block
- Asetek eighth-generation liquid pump
- Embedded pump fan for motherboard socket airflow
- Fans deliver speeds up to 2000 RPM
Cons
- 240mm radiator provides less surface area than 360mm alternatives
- Specification list does not include RGB lighting
Good fit if
- You want a large 3.5-inch LCD display mounted directly on your CPU block.
- You need an embedded pump fan to cool components surrounding the CPU socket.
- You require a compact dual-fan 240mm radiator layout.
Skip if
- You need a larger 360mm radiator for expanded heat dissipation.
- You prefer built-in RGB lighting effects across your cooling fans.
Verdict: ASUS ROG Ryujin III 240 LCD Liquid Cooler suits system builders who require a high-resolution 3.5-inch display alongside active VRM airflow in a dual-fan footprint.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB Cooler | NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White LCD Cooler | NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB Cooler | Alphacool NexXxos 240mm Full Copper Radiator | Alphacool NexXxos XT45 X-Flow 240mm Copper Radiator | Alphacool NexXxoS ST25 240mm Copper Radiator | ASUS ROG Ryujin III 240 LCD Liquid Cooler |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 240mm | 240mm | 240mm | 240mm | 240mm | 240mm | 240mm |
| Socket Compatibility | AM5, LGA 1851 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Display Size | 1.54" | 2.36" | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 3.5" |
| Display Resolution | not specified | 640x640 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Pump Speed | not specified | 2800 RPM | 3,100 RPM | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Fan Speed | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2000 RPM |
| Lighting Type | RGB | RGB | RGB | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Lighting | RGB | RGB | RGB | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Material | not specified | not specified | not specified | Copper | Copper | Copper | not specified |
| Display | LCD Screen | LCD Screen | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | LCD Screen |
| Size | 240Mm | 240Mm | 240Mm | 240Mm | 240Mm | 240Mm | 240Mm |
| Dimensions | 13.5 × 8.35 × 5.47 inches | 7.87 × 13.8 × 11.8 inches | 11 × 4.72 × 6.69 inches | 4.88 × 11 × 1.81 inches | 11.5 × 4.88 × 1.77 inches | 2.36 × 4.72 × 4.72 inches | 19.7 × 19.7 × 11 inches |
| Weight | 1.1 pounds | 4.41 pounds | 3.15 pounds | 1.32 pounds | 1.03 kilograms | 1.75 pounds | 3.31 pounds |
| Color | Black | white | Black | black | not specified | Black | Black |
| Model | RL-KR240-B2 | RL-KR24E-W1 | RL-KR24C-B1 | 14164 | 14234 | 14250 | 90RC00K0-M0UAY0 |
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Frequently asked questions
Which NZXT 240mm alternative works best if you do not want an LCD screen?
The NZXT Kraken Core 240 RGB is your top option if you prefer a setup without an LCD display. It features a 3,100 RPM pump and uses unified single-frame PWM fans that plug directly into your motherboard header. This design simplifies your overall cable management while retaining RGB lighting.
Are Alphacool NexXxos radiators direct replacements for the NZXT Kraken Plus 240 RGB?
No, Alphacool NexXxos radiators are standalone components made for custom liquid loops rather than self-contained all-in-one units. Models like the XT45 feature all-copper construction and six G1/4-inch ports. You must provide your own pump, reservoir, tubing, and cooling fluid to build an operational system around them.
Can you find a 240mm cooler alternative with an integrated LCD display?
Yes, the ASUS ROG Ryujin III 240 is a direct alternative featuring a built-in LCD screen. Like your Kraken Plus baseline, it fits standard 240mm mounting locations in your chassis. It offers an all-black design and weighs 3.31 pounds while keeping visual system telemetry on the CPU block.
What is the difference between standard and X-Flow Alphacool 240mm radiators?
Standard Alphacool NexXxos radiators route coolant through chambers on the same end cap, while the XT45 X-Flow model directs coolant straight from one end to the other. Both units feature full copper internals and standard G1/4 threading, but the X-Flow configuration allows alternative tube routing in custom cooling loops.
Which alternative is best if you are building an all-white gaming PC?
The NZXT Kraken Elite 240 RGB White is built specifically for white-themed builds. While the standard Kraken Plus comes in black, this model features an all-white chassis, radiator, and matching fans. It also includes an integrated display screen, giving you clear visual output inside a color-matched PC setup.
How does fan cable connection differ between the Kraken Core and Kraken Plus?
The Kraken Core 240 RGB simplifies fan installation by using unified single-frame PWM fans that connect straight to your motherboard. This approach removes the need for proprietary external control hubs. In contrast, the Kraken Plus design relies on dedicated internal connections and software to drive its display and lighting.