Heat management is something important in using PCs for long periods. Continuous use of a computer means that there is always a constant flow of power in the system. The computer system turns on for extended periods, but the process produces heat as well.
If you want to maintain the durability of the CPU, liquid CPU coolers are the next best investment for your build. There are many models and brands out in the market, and NZXT doesn’t have a shortage of liquid CPU cooler models for most CPU models of gaming computers.
You don’t need to look anywhere else. NZXT has the Kraken X63 and Kraken X73 to cool down the CPU. The cooling technology of these cooling devices can be the solution you’re looking for to handle the heat byproducts of long gaming sessions.
Let this guide help you in choosing the more suitable model for your PC setup.
Main Differences
The NZXT Kraken X63 and the NZXT Kraken X73 are very similar, which is not least due to the same manufacturer. Basically, the X73 is the three-fan version of the X63. Accordingly, the Kraken X73 requires more space, but can cool the CPU better in the same ratio.
Comparison – NZXT Kraken X63 vs X73
NZXT Kraken X63 | NZXT Kraken X73 | |
 |  | |
Radiator Size | 280 mm / 11.02" | 360 mm / 14.17" |
Fans | 2 | 3 |
Fan Size | 140 mm / 5.51" | 120 mm / 4,72" |
Fan Thickness | 26 mm / 1.02" | 26 mm / 1.02" |
Fan Speed | 500 to 1,800 rpm | 500 to 2,000 rpm |
Maximum Airflow | 98.17 CFM | 73.11 CFM |
Fan LED | ||
Pump LED | RGB | RGB |
Noise Level | 21 to 38 dBA | 21 to 36 dBA |
Control Method | 4-Pin PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) | 4-Pin PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) |
Power Consumption | 4.56 W | 3.84 W |
Intel LGA 115X | ||
Intel LGA 1200 | ||
Intel LGA 1366 | ||
Intel LGA 2011-3 | ||
Intel LGA 2066 | ||
AMD AM4 | ||
AMD sTRX4 | Threadripper bracket not included | Threadripper bracket not included |
AMD TR4 | Threadripper bracket not included | Threadripper bracket not included |
Warranty | 6 years | 6 years |
NZXT Kraken X63 | NZXT Kraken X73 |
| | |
Radiator Size 280 mm / 11.02" | Radiator Size 360 mm / 14.17" |
Fans 2 | Fans 3 |
Fan Size 140 mm / 5.51" | Fan Size 120 mm / 4,72" |
Fan Thickness 26 mm / 1.02" | Fan Thickness 26 mm / 1.02" |
Fan Speed 500 to 1,800 rpm | Fan Speed 500 to 2,000 rpm |
Maximum Airflow 98.17 CFM | Maximum Airflow 73.11 CFM |
Fan LED | Fan LED |
Pump LED RGB | Pump LED RGB |
Noise Level 21 to 38 dBA | Noise Level 21 to 36 dBA |
Control Method 4-Pin PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) | Control Method 4-Pin PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) |
Power Consumption 4.56 W | Power Consumption 3.84 W |
Intel LGA 115X | Intel LGA 115X |
Intel LGA 1200 | Intel LGA 1200 |
Intel LGA 1366 | Intel LGA 1366 |
Intel LGA 2011-3 | Intel LGA 2011-3 |
Intel LGA 2066 | Intel LGA 2066 |
AMD AM4 | AMD AM4 |
AMD sTRX4 Threadripper bracket not included | AMD sTRX4 Threadripper bracket not included |
AMD TR4 Threadripper bracket not included | AMD TR4 Threadripper bracket not included |
Warranty 6 years | Warranty 6 years |
Installation and Compatibility
Liquid cooler installations can be a bit tricky than most. After all, you are integrating another vital part of the PC into the CPU. However, the Kraken X63 and Kraken X73 are simple to install, and NZXT has a lot of support documents to guide users in putting in the liquid coolers inside.
CPU Compatibility
The Kraken X63 and Kraken X73 fit in most CPU models. According to NZXT, these are the models that can cater the liquid CPU cooler devices:
- Intel LGA: 1200, 1151, 1150, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, 2066
- Intel Series: i9, i7, i5, i3, Pentium, Celeron
- AMD Socket: AM4, sTRX4, TR4
- AMD Series: Ryzen 9, Ryzen 7, Ryzen 5, Ryzen 3, Threadripper (bracket not included)
The Kraken X63 and Kraken X73 differ most in size. The first most noticeable thing that differs between the two models is that the Kraken X73 has three fans, meaning another additional block of a fan is present. The Kraken X63 is smaller than the Kraken X73 in size.
Nevertheless, both models fit comfortably within compatible models. The only drawback is the strategic placement of the fans in the CPU of the gaming computers.
Installation guide
Supporting documents and guides are present for both models. The Kraken X63 and Kraken X73 have installation guides that are available in various languages.
The instructions on how to place the liquid coolers are present in the pertinent installation guide. Usually, product inclusions cover the hardware, cable and cable ties, liquid cooler units, and additional paperwork. There should be complete sets of screws, sockets, and other parts of the liquid cooler units.
Cooling Power
The cooling power of the models is an essential aspect of choosing a compatible cooler. The function of a liquid CPU cooler is to provide cooling power to a CPU that is constantly producing heat. Any physical variation of the physical aspect of coolers can affect cooling power.
The Kraken X73 has three standard fans in the unit. Compared to two fans of the Kraken X63, the former has more power and capacity to cool any internal space of a CPU. If you want a faster cooling rate, then the X73 has more capability to do this.
Number of Fans
The Kraken X63 has two fans, while the Kraken X73 has three fans.
Fan Size
The Kraken X63 has a fan size of 140 mm while the Kraken X73 has a fan size of 120 mm. The fan thickness of both models is 26 mm.
Fan Speed
The fan speed of the models is recorded in RPM or revolutions per minute. The Kraken X63 has an RPM of 500 to 1800, while the Kraken X73 has an RPM rate of 500 to 2000. Allow a standard deviation of around ± 300 RPM for each model.
Radiator Size
The radiator size of the Kraken X63 is 315.0 x 143.0 x 30.0 mm. On the other hand, the Kraken X73 has a radiator size of 394.0 x 121.0 x 27.0 mm. Considering that there is an additional fan for the Kraken X73, the size is bigger than the Kraken X63.
Pump Power
The motor speed of both the Kraken X63 and Kraken X73 is at 800 to 2800 ± 300 RPM. This pump motor speed translates to 12V of necessary power for direct current at 0.3A.
Look
Looks can be everything or nothing. We all live in an age where there is a good appreciation for pleasing aesthetics. Design, build, and eye-pleasing PC setups often win impressions of the audience.
LED Fans or no LED Fans
The Kraken X63 and Kraken X73 have LED lights on the fan. Unfortunately, the only color selection of the fan material is matte black.
Color (Differences)
There is no difference in the color choices of both models. The cables, radiator, casing, and other inclusions are matte black.
Pump Head Display
The Kraken X63 and Kraken X73 make use of fluid dynamic bearing. You have an assurance that parts are long-lasting.
Pump Head LED
The Kraken X63 and Kraken X73 have LED lights on the pump heads of the unit. These liquid CPU coolers also sport an infinity mirror design.
RGB Sync
Customization is key to getting the feel and look of the setup you want. Luckily, there is NZXT CAM software to modify the settings of the Kraken X63 and Kraken X73. NZXT provides additional functions and iterations via the software.
Noise Level
Noise levels can affect user experience. Nobody wants a noisy fan that can cause distraction. Fortunately, the Kraken X63 has a noise level of 21 to 38 dBA, while the Kraken X73 has noise levels of 21 to 36 dBA.
Power Consumption
The power consumption of both models may differ a bit from each other. While the Kraken X63 consumes 4.56 Watts, the Kraken X73 consumes 3.84 Watts.
Price
The Kraken X63 costs 159.99 USD and the Kraken X73 costs 189.99. The price range is not that far from each other.
Conclusion – NZXT Kraken X63 vs X73
In terms of capacity and price, the Kraken X73 performs better. The model has more fans that can disseminate heat faster and powers for much lower power consumption. Not only do you save power consumption, but there is faster action, and it is by controlling the flow of the heat from one part of the CPU to the radiator.
Sometimes, your basis may not fall on the aspects of the liquid coolers, and you may be choosing with regards to how big space consumption is in your PC build. The Kraken X73 is better for bigger CPU casings, while the smaller Kraken X63 can fit in most standard-sized CPUs.
If you can install the Kraken X73 on your CPU, it’s best to go for it. The slight price difference is worth the additional fan in the model.
