NZXT
NZXT Kraken Elite 280
Status: NZXT Kraken Elite 280 - RL-KN28E-B1-280mm AIO…: Unavailable on Amazon as of . SpecPicks has no in-stock listing with matching specs on file; the search below lists current offers. eBay sellers may still list this model new or used.
Bottom line: The NZXT Kraken Elite 280: 2.36-inch 640x640 LCD at 60 Hz shows GIFs, temps, or web content; main trade-off: requires NZXT CAM running to drive the LCD and metrics.
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Currently unavailable on Amazon. Not the same product — 3 in-stock alternatives:
Similar: NZXT Kraken Elite 280 RGB - 280mm AIO CPU Cooler — $231.99 on Amazon as of 2026-10-21 04:20 UTC (price may vary).
Similar: CORSAIR iCUE Link H115i RGB Liquid CPU Cooler… — $95.86 on Amazon as of 2026-10-21 04:20 UTC (price may vary).
Similar: ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 A-RGB… — $99.99 on Amazon as of 2026-10-21 04:20 UTC (price may vary).
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ 2.36-inch 640x640 LCD at 60 Hz shows GIFs, temps, or web content
- ✓ 690 cd/m2 backlight stays readable through tinted glass panels
- ✓ Asetek pump scales to 2,800 RPM for fast coolant circulation
- ✓ 280mm radiator with two 140mm F140P fans beats 240mm rivals
- ✓ Single breakout cable to the motherboard cuts install clutter
Cons
- ✗ Requires NZXT CAM running to drive the LCD and metrics
- ✗ 280mm radiator needs a case with matching top or front mounts
- ✗ 2,800 RPM pump ceiling can be audible at full speed
- ✗ Higher cost than a same-size AIO without an LCD screen
Manufacturer description
The NZXT Kraken Elite 280 turns the top of your CPU into a second screen. Its 2.36-inch circular LCD runs at 640x640 with a 60 Hz refresh rate and a 690 cd/m2 backlight, so animated GIFs, live coolant and CPU temperatures, now-playing track art, or embedded web content all stay legible from off-axis viewing angles. NZXT CAM software handles the layout, letting you swap between performance dashboards and personal images without reopening the case. Underneath the display is an Asetek pump spinning at up to 2,800 RPM, paired with a 280mm radiator and two F140P static-pressure fans on fluid…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored NZXT Kraken Elite 280 using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the cooling & fans category. NZXT's cooling & fans lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for cooling & fans of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can the Kraken Elite 280 screen actually display?
The 2.36-inch, 640x640 LCD can show an animated GIF or static image, real-time PC performance metrics, currently playing music, and integrated web content, all configured in NZXT CAM.
Do I need NZXT CAM software to use this cooler?
Yes for the display. CAM drives the LCD content, performance metrics, music, and web integration. Check the product listing for details on cooling behavior without CAM installed.
How fast does the pump run?
The Asetek pump operates at up to 2,800 RPM to circulate coolant efficiently while keeping noise down at lower duty cycles.
What fans come with the Kraken Elite 280?
Two F140P static-pressure fans with fluid dynamic bearings, tuned to balance static pressure and airflow across the 280mm radiator with minimal noise.
Is installation complicated with the LCD screen?
A single breakout cable runs from the pump to the motherboard, so you are not routing separate fan, lighting, and data leads. Confirm your case supports a 280mm radiator before buying.
Key Features
- PERSONALIZATION THAT POPS: Display a favorite animated GIF or static image, monitor real-time PC performance metrics, see music that's currently playing, integrate web content and more with NZXT CAM software.
- WIDE-ANGLE LCD DISPLAY: 2.36"" diameter LCD display with a wide viewing angle, crisp 640x640 resolution, high 60 Hz refresh rate, and a vivid 690 cd/m² backlight brings on-screen content to life.
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE PUMP: The powerful Asetek pump operates at up to 2,800 RPM to ensure efficient and quiet coolant circulation.
- POWERFUL COOLING: Static Pressure Fans with fluid dynamic bearings provide an optimal balance of high static pressure and airflow for powerful cooling with minimal noise.
- SIMPLE SETUP: A single breakout cable from pump to motherboard makes for easy installation.
Full Specifications
| Brand | NZXT |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Model | RL-KN28E-B1 |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Wattage | 12 watts |
| Material | Rubber |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
| Noise Level | 32.1 db |
| Part Number | RL-KN28E-B1 |
| SIMPLE SETUP | A single breakout cable from pump to motherboard makes for easy installation. |
| Compatibility | PC |
| Material Type | Rubber |
| Cooling Method | Water |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Number of Packs | 1 |
| Air Flow Capacity | 99.68 cfm |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Included Components | Liquid Cooler |
| Power Connector Type | 4-Pin |
| Warranty Description | 6 years manufacturer |
| Full listing title | NZXT Kraken Elite 280 - RL-KN28E-B1-280mm AIO CPU Liquid Cooler - Customizable 2.36" LCD Display for Images, Performance Metrics and More - High-Performance Pump - 2 x F140P Fans - Black |
Ready to buy?
Amazon shows no buyable offer for NZXT Kraken Elite 280 - RL-KN28E-B1-280mm AIO… at the last check. A similar in-stock product is NZXT Kraken Elite 280 RGB - 280mm AIO CPU Cooler. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
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