Are you in the market for a premium liquid CPU cooler that not only offers exceptional cooling performance but also a touch of visual flair? The NZXT Kraken series has long been a favorite among PC builders, and two of its most popular models, the Z63 and Z73, often leave enthusiasts wondering about their differences.
While both the NZXT Kraken Z63 and Z73 boast the signature Asetek pump and customizable LCD screen, subtle distinctions can significantly impact your build. Deciding between these two titans of thermal management requires a closer look at their specifications and intended use cases.
This comparison dives deep into what sets the NZXT Kraken Z63 and Z73 apart, helping you make an informed decision for your next high-performance PC. Let’s explore which cooler best fits your cooling needs and aesthetic ambitions.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | NZXT Kraken Z63 | NZXT Kraken Z73 |
|---|---|---|
| Radiator Size | 280mm | 360mm |
| Fan Size | 140mm | 120mm |
| Pump Speed | 800 – 2,800 RPM (± 10%) | 800 – 2,800 RPM (± 10%) |
| Fan Airflow | up to 98.17 CFM | up to 40.99 CFM (per fan) |
| Fan Noise Level | 22 – 38 dBA | 21 – 38 dBA |
| Tubing Length | 400mm | 400mm |
| Display | 2.36″ LCD Screen | 2.36″ LCD Screen |
| RGB Lighting | Yes (Aer P Fans) | Yes (Aer P Fans) |
| Socket Support | Intel LGA 1700, 1200, 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, 2011, 2011-3, 1366; AMD AM4, AM5, TR4, sTRX4 | Intel LGA 1700, 1200, 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, 2011, 2011-3, 1366; AMD AM4, AM5, TR4, sTRX4 |
| Warranty | 6 Years | 6 Years |
| Software Control | NZXT CAM | NZXT CAM |
| Included Fans | 2 x 140mm Aer P PWM | 3 x 120mm Aer P PWM |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Radiator Size
- Nzxt Kraken Z63: Features a 280mm radiator, offering a good balance between cooling performance and case compatibility. It’s suitable for most mid-tower and larger cases.
- Z73: Boasts a larger 360mm radiator, providing superior cooling potential. This size is ideal for high-end CPUs and overclocking, but requires a larger chassis.
- Winner: z73
Fan Size and Count
- Nzxt Kraken Z63: Comes with two 140mm Aer P fans. These fans are designed for static pressure and efficient airflow, contributing to its solid cooling capabilities.
- Z73: Includes three 120mm Aer P fans. While smaller in diameter, the additional fan and larger radiator surface area allow for potentially greater heat dissipation.
- Winner: z73
Pump Performance
- Nzxt Kraken Z63: Utilizes an Asetek 7th Gen pump, known for its quiet operation and reliable performance. It’s a capable unit for maintaining optimal CPU temperatures.
- Z73: Also employs the Asetek 7th Gen pump. The pump itself is identical to the z63, meaning core pump performance is the same.
- Winner: Equal
Display (LCD Screen)
- Nzxt Kraken Z63: Features a 1.77-inch LCD screen on the pump head. This allows for displaying custom images, GIFs, system stats, or even music visualization.
- Z73: Also includes a 1.77-inch LCD screen with the same customization and display capabilities as the z63.
- Winner: Equal
Software Control (CAM)
- Nzxt Kraken Z63: Fully controlled via NZXT’s CAM software, allowing for fan and pump speed adjustments, RGB lighting customization, and display content management.
- Z73: Also integrates seamlessly with CAM software, offering the same comprehensive control over all its features.
- Winner: Equal
Aesthetics and Build Quality
- Nzxt Kraken Z63: Offers a sleek, minimalist design with braided tubing and a premium finish. The build quality is excellent, typical of NZXT products.
- Z73: Shares the same high-quality build and aesthetic design principles as the z63, with braided tubing and a refined look.
- Winner: Equal
Noise Levels
- Nzxt Kraken Z63: Generally operates quietly, especially at idle or moderate loads, thanks to the efficient fans and pump.
- Z73: Can be slightly louder under heavy load due to the three fans spinning, but still maintains a respectable noise profile for its cooling capacity.
- Winner: nzxt kraken z63
Cooling Performance (Max Load)
- Nzxt Kraken Z63: Provides excellent cooling for most high-performance CPUs, capable of handling significant heat output.
- Z73: Due to its larger radiator and additional fan, the z73 offers superior thermal dissipation and can maintain lower temperatures under extreme loads or heavy overclocking.
- Winner: z73
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Cooling Performance | NZXT Kraken Z73 |
| Radiator Size | NZXT Kraken Z73 |
| Fan Size/Configuration | NZXT Kraken Z63 (for larger fans) / NZXT Kraken Z73 (for more fans) |
| Case Compatibility | NZXT Kraken Z63 |
| Display Customization | Tie |
| Software Control | Tie |
| Overall Value (Performance for Size) | NZXT Kraken Z63 |
What They Have in Common
- Customizable Lcd Display: Both the Kraken Z63 and Z73 feature a vibrant 2.36-inch LCD screen on the pump housing. This allows users to display custom images, GIFs, system temperatures, or other vital information, adding a personalized touch to their build.
- High-Performance Cooling: Both AIO coolers are designed to provide excellent thermal performance, capable of keeping even high-end CPUs at optimal temperatures during demanding tasks and gaming sessions. They utilize a dual-chamber pump for efficient liquid circulation.
- Nzxt Cam Software: Control and customization for both coolers are managed through NZXT’s intuitive CAM software. This allows for easy adjustment of fan speeds, pump speeds, RGB lighting effects, and display content.
- Durable Tubing: Both models come with reinforced, sleeved tubing that is built for longevity and to prevent leaks. The 400mm length offers good flexibility for installation in various case configurations.
- Extensive Socket Compatibility: Both the Z63 and Z73 support a wide range of current and older Intel and AMD CPU sockets, ensuring broad compatibility with most modern motherboards.
- Premium Build Quality: NZXT is known for its high-quality components, and both the Z63 and Z73 are no exception. They are constructed with durable materials designed for long-term reliability.
NZXT Kraken Z63 vs Z73 Buying Guide
Radiator Size and Performance
The primary difference lies in radiator size. The Z63 features a 280mm radiator, while the Z73 boasts a larger 360mm radiator. Generally, a larger radiator surface area allows for more efficient heat dissipation, meaning the Z73 can potentially cool higher TDP CPUs more effectively or maintain lower temperatures under sustained heavy loads compared to the Z63.
Consider your PC case’s compatibility. A 360mm radiator requires more mounting space than a 280mm one. If you have a smaller or mid-tower case, the Z63 might be the only viable option, while larger cases will comfortably accommodate the Z73 for its superior cooling potential. (See Also: Playstation 5 Digital Edition Vs Standard )
Aesthetic and LCD Display
Both AIOs feature NZXT’s signature clean aesthetic and a customizable LCD screen on the pump housing. This screen is a standout feature, allowing you to display custom images, GIFs, system temperatures, or even CPU usage statistics. The functionality and visual appeal are identical between the Z63 and Z73, making this a non-factor in choosing between them based on performance.
The choice here is purely subjective and depends on your personal preference for the visual customization offered by the LCD. Both units provide excellent build quality and a premium look and feel that will elevate any PC build.
Installation and Ease of Use
NZXT is known for user-friendly installation, and both the Z63 and Z73 follow this trend. The Kraken series typically comes with a straightforward mounting system for both Intel and AMD platforms, along with a single USB 2.0 header for the pump and software control. The included NZXT CAM software simplifies fan and pump speed adjustments, as well as the LCD customization.
The physical installation of the radiator might differ slightly due to size, but the core process of attaching the pump block and routing the tubing remains the same. Both coolers offer a hassle-free setup experience for users of all skill levels, ensuring a smooth integration into your system. (See Also: Azek Vs Trex Decking )
Pricing and Value Proposition
Typically, the Z73, with its larger radiator and consequently higher cooling capacity, comes with a higher price tag than the Z63. The value proposition depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are building a high-end system with a top-tier, heat-generating CPU and plan to push it with overclocking, the extra cost of the Z73 might be justified by its superior cooling performance.
For mid-range builds or users who don’t intend to heavily overclock, the Z63 offers excellent cooling performance at a more accessible price point. It still provides the premium features like the LCD screen and robust cooling for most gaming and productivity tasks, making it a strong value option.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy NZXT Kraken Z63 If…
- You have a mid-tower or smaller PC case and are concerned about radiator fitment.
- Your CPU is powerful but not the absolute highest-end, and you don’t plan on extreme overclocking.
- You prefer the aesthetics and airflow of larger 140mm fans.
- You are looking for a balance of performance and a more compact radiator size.
Buy NZXT Kraken Z73 If…
- You want the absolute best cooling performance for a top-tier, high-TDP CPU.
- You plan on aggressive overclocking and need maximum thermal headroom.
- You have a large PC case with ample space for a 360mm radiator.
- You prioritize the highest possible airflow and cooling potential, even if it means more fans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the NZXT Kraken Z63 and Z73?
The primary distinction lies in their radiator size. The Kraken Z63 features a 280mm radiator, while the Kraken Z73 is equipped with a larger 360mm radiator. This size difference directly impacts cooling potential, with the Z73 generally offering superior heat dissipation capabilities due to its increased surface area.
Can the NZXT Kraken Z63 and Z73 fit in any PC case?
While both are AIO coolers, radiator size is a critical factor for case compatibility. The 280mm Z63 is more likely to fit in a wider range of mid-tower cases. The larger 360mm Z73 typically requires a case with specific mounting support for 360mm radiators, often found in larger mid-towers or full-tower cases. (See Also: Hp Omen Vs Dell Alienware )
How does the LCD screen differ between the Z63 and Z73?
There is no functional difference in the LCD screen itself between the Z63 and Z73. Both models feature the same customizable 2.36-inch LCD display on the pump housing, allowing users to showcase custom images, GIFs, system stats, and more through the NZXT CAM software.
Which cooler is better for overclocking, the Z63 or Z73?
For serious overclocking of high-TDP CPUs, the Z73 is generally the better choice. Its larger 360mm radiator provides more thermal headroom, allowing it to dissipate more heat effectively under sustained heavy loads, which is crucial when pushing components beyond their stock specifications.
Are both coolers quiet?
Both the Kraken Z63 and Z73 utilize NZXT’s Aer P radiator fans, which are designed for performance and relatively quiet operation. However, due to the larger radiator and potentially higher fan speeds required to cool more demanding CPUs, the Z73 might produce slightly more noise under extreme load compared to the Z63.
Final Verdict
The NZXT Kraken Z63 and Z73 are both exceptional All-In-One liquid coolers, distinguished primarily by their radiator size. The Z73, with its 360mm radiator, offers superior cooling performance and is ideal for high-end CPUs and aggressive overclocking. The Z63, with its 280mm radiator, provides excellent cooling for most systems and is a more versatile option for cases with limited radiator space. Both boast the impressive customizable LCD screen and NZXT’s signature build quality.
Winner: NZXT Kraken Z73