NZXT Kraken Plus 240 vs Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB 120mm Magnetic Dome RGB Fans - Triple Fan Starter Ki

Overview of the NZXT Kraken Plus 240

The NZXT Kraken Plus 240 is a high-performance CPU cooler designed to keep your processor at optimal temperatures during demanding tasks. Priced at £97.97, this cooler features a powerful turbine pump that delivers efficient cooling while maintaining low noise levels. Its design includes a custom LCD screen that can display real-time system temperatures, animated GIFs, or even web integrations, making it not just functional but also visually appealing. With easy installation and compatibility with recent AMD and Intel CPU sockets, the Kraken Plus 240 is a strong contender for those seeking both performance and aesthetics in their cooling solution.

Overview of the Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB Fans

The Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB fans are tailored for users desiring effective airflow and vibrant lighting effects. At a price of £105.15, these fans are capable of operating at speeds ranging from 480 RPM to 2,400 RPM, providing a maximum airflow of 63.1 CFM. The unique Time Warp lighting mode, featuring 34 RGB LEDs, allows for customisation of lighting effects, enhancing the visual appeal of any build. Additionally, these fans incorporate a Zero RPM mode, ensuring silent operation during low loads. With a magnetic dome bearing, they promise quiet performance without sacrificing cooling efficiency.

Cooling Performance Comparison

Cooling performance is a critical aspect when selecting a CPU cooler or fan system. The NZXT Kraken Plus 240 features a turbine pump that is specifically engineered for high flow and head pressure, ensuring effective cooling under heavy workloads. The high-static pressure fans included with this cooler allow for efficient heat dissipation. In contrast, the Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 fans offer flexible PWM-controlled speeds, which range from 480 RPM to 2,400 RPM, enabling tailored airflow based on system demands. Although both products support a Zero RPM mode for silent operation, the Kraken Plus 240 is particularly designed for CPU cooling, which may give it an edge in high-performance scenarios.

Aesthetic Features and Customisation

Aesthetics play an essential role in modern PC builds, and both the NZXT Kraken Plus 240 and Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB fans offer unique visual elements. The Kraken Plus 240 boasts a custom LCD screen that displays system information, GIFs, or images, allowing users to personalise their setup. On the other hand, the Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 fans shine with their RGB lighting, featuring 34 LEDs across two zones and exclusive lighting modes like Time Warp. While the Kraken Plus excels in providing informative visuals, the QX120 fans focus on dynamic lighting effects, appealing to gamers and RGB enthusiasts alike.

Installation and Compatibility

When choosing cooling solutions, ease of installation and compatibility are vital considerations. The NZXT Kraken Plus 240 simplifies installation with pre-applied thermal paste and a single breakout cable that reduces cable clutter. It includes tool-free mounting brackets compatible with both AMD and Intel sockets, including the latest AM5 and LGA 1851. On the flip side, the Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 fans come with bridge connectors and a system hub that streamline the installation process by allowing fans to be daisy-chained without excess wiring. Both products prioritise ease of setup, but the Kraken Plus 240 caters specifically to CPU cooling, while the QX120 fans are designed to enhance case airflow.

Noise Levels and Operational Efficiency

Noise levels can significantly impact the user experience, particularly in quiet environments. The NZXT Kraken Plus 240 utilises high-static pressure fans that are designed to operate quietly, with a Zero RPM mode that stops the fans at low loads for silent operation. Similarly, the Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 fans also feature a Zero RPM mode and utilise a magnetic dome bearing to reduce friction and noise, especially at lower speeds. While both products aim for quiet operation during idle periods, the Kraken Plus 240’s focus on cooling performance under load may result in higher noise levels during intense tasks compared to the more versatile fan speeds of the QX120 fans.

Pricing and Value for Money

In terms of pricing, the NZXT Kraken Plus 240 is available for £97.97, while the Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB fans are priced at £105.15. The price difference of £7.18 may influence a buyer’s decision, particularly if they are on a budget. While the Kraken Plus 240 offers high-performance cooling and unique features like an LCD display, the QX120 fans provide a solid airflow solution with extensive RGB customisation. Ultimately, the decision may come down to whether a user prioritises cooling efficiency or aesthetic customisation, making both products valuable in their own right.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the NZXT Kraken Plus 240 and the Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 RGB fans boils down to your specific needs. If you seek a high-performance CPU cooler that excels in cooling efficiency with additional visual features like an LCD screen, the NZXT Kraken Plus 240 is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritise vibrant RGB lighting and flexible airflow options with quieter operation at low speeds, the Corsair iCUE LINK QX120 fans would be more suitable. Both products offer distinct advantages, so your final decision should hinge on whether cooling performance or aesthetic customisation is more important for your system build.