Now that RGB lighting has taken over nearly all hardware components and peripherals, there is nothing left to give the unicorn treatment, and NZXT has released two new series in its popular line of Kraken coolers, the X-3 and Z-3. (1]

In addition to displaying the NZXT logo in the center of the pump's infinity mirror, all Z-3 models feature a 2.36-inch, 24-bit color LCD screen that can be customized with data from NZXT's CAM software or virtually any image you like GIF images are also available. If you want to express your personality at the AIO pump with Faceplum Picard or dancing Jason Voorhees, you can. (The X-3 series doesn't have an LCD screen, but it does have a few upgrades: according to NZXT, the LED ring inside the pump is 10% larger, and it comes with a rotating top that can be oriented directly across the NZXT logo no matter which direction the cooler is facing. Those who have used Kraken coolers with AMD processors know that the logo is oriented vertically due to the placement of the mounting brackets on the motherboard; for Intel motherboards the logo is oriented to the right because the mounting brackets are installed horizontally. AMD rigs can finally get the logo to face the right way.

The Z-3 series does not have a rotating top, but the LCD screen can be turned in any direction.

In addition, both the X-3 and Z-3 series feature an all-new pump from Asetek for "better cooling and whisper-quiet performance at 800RPM," according to NZXT, improved RGB lighting sync and easier installation

Kra.

The Kraken X-3 and Z-3 series are available now in the U.S. only (other regions will follow in early February). Pricing is as follows:

Kraken X-3 series

Kraken Z-3 series

For those who are bad at math, replacing the standard mirror-finished NZXT logo on the pump with an LCD screen is a $100 upsell This would be a modest aesthetic upsell. While this may seem like asking a lot for a modest aesthetic upgrade, it could be worse.

Something else to point out is that the Z63 and Z73 have essentially the same level of cooling performance. This is generally true for all 280mm and 360mm radiators, with two 140mm fans providing about the same cooling area as three 120mm fans. However, some cases are designed to accommodate longer coolers, while others use wider mounts. In any case, cooling appears to be quite good. Although not extensively tested, the X63 and Z73 easily handled everything, including the Threadripper 3970X.