NZXT Kraken X52 Review (Page 4 of 4)

Page 4 - Conclusion

As we have all come to realize, gaming products now require RGB to qualify as gaming products. If they do not have it, do not even bother. Form over function right? Sarcasm and jokes aside, even though some products look better than others, I think it is safe to say we all want the product we buy to perform. The NZXT Kraken X52 is an exquisite looking all-in-one cooler, with a great light show to boot. The top of the water block has an almost mirror-like clean finish with the NZXT logo in LEDs and an illuminated perimeter. The software for the NZXT Kraken X52 allows one to change the LEDs to almost anything you want. The build quality is also great, with aluminum and copper used for best heat transfer rates, while the tubing is well constructed and flexible. The software was easy to find and use, similar to the installation process. The instruction manual was easy to use and outlined all the steps required clearly. The performance engineered pump definitely played a role in the testing, with the NZXT Kraken X52 performing much better than all the coolers on the list of comparison in both a push and pull configuration. The included fans also did their job well and silently. While the temperatures were kept constant, the fans were also pretty silent. The MSRP is $150 USD, which is some serious cash for a CPU cooler. However, the Kraken X52 does not sacrifice form over function, or vice versa. It does balance them out, with great build quality and performance to match, delivered with a fancy light show for some extra eye candy. The 6-year warranty is really the icing on the cake.

NZXT provided this product to APH Networks for the purpose of evaluation.

APH Review Focus Summary:
8/10 means Definitely a very good product with drawbacks that are not likely going to matter to the end user.
-- Final APH Numeric Rating is 8.0/10
Please note that the APH Numeric Rating system is based off our proprietary guidelines in the Review Focus, and should not be compared to other sites.

The NZXT Kraken X52 balances out form and function. But balancing out form and function does come at a price.

Do you have any comments or questions about the NZXT Kraken X52? Drop by our Forums. Registration is free, and it only takes a minute!


Page Index
1. Introduction, Packaging, Specifications
2. Physical Look - Hardware; Installation
3. Test Results
4. Conclusion