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NZXT Kraken Elite 420 RGB - 420mm AIO CPU Cooler, LCD - Black | Flagship 420mm RGB AIO with 2.36-inch LCD and F420 RGB Core fan. Our most powerful cooler, fully controlled via CAM.
NZXT

NZXT Kraken Elite 420 RGB

Bottom line: The NZXT Kraken Elite 420 RGB: Large 420mm radiator for heat-heavy, high-wattage CPUs; main trade-off: 420mm radiator won't fit many mid-tower cases; check mount support.

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By , Founder & Editor-in-Chief · Listing data updated

Mike Perry — Hardware researcher since 2014, focused on GPU performance across gaming, rendering, and local-LLM inference. Synthesises community benchmarks, manufacturer specs, and public forum data into actionable buying guides.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Large 420mm radiator for heat-heavy, high-wattage CPUs
  • ✓ Custom NZXT Turbine pump with high flow rate and head pressure
  • ✓ 2.72-inch 640 x 640 IPS LCD at 60 Hz and 690 cd/m2
  • ✓ Shows GIFs, live system stats, Google Photos, Spotify and YouTube
  • ✓ Tool-free brackets for AM5, AM4, LGA 1851/1700/1200/115X

Cons

  • ✗ 420mm radiator won't fit many mid-tower cases; check mount support
  • ✗ LCD and RGB features rely on NZXT CAM software running
  • ✗ Flagship pricing: more than most 360mm AIOs cost
  • ✗ Listing gives no noise (dBA) or pump RPM figures

Manufacturer description

The NZXT Kraken Elite 420 RGB is a 420mm AIO CPU cooler (model RL-KR42E-B2) built for high-wattage processors that need serious heat removal. Its custom NZXT Turbine pump delivers high flow rate and head pressure, and the 420mm radiator carries the RGB Core single-frame fan for airflow and lighting. The pump head has a 2.72-inch IPS LCD with 640 x 640 resolution, a 60 Hz refresh rate, 690 cd/m2 brightness, 24-bit color and wide viewing angles. You can show a favorite GIF or image, watch real-time CPU and system stats, or pull content from Google Photos, Spotify and YouTube. The RGB LED ring…

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SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored NZXT Kraken Elite 420 RGB 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

Which CPU sockets does the NZXT Kraken Elite 420 RGB support?

The included tool-free brackets support AMD AM5 and AM4 and Intel LGA 1851, LGA 1700, LGA 1200 and LGA 115X. No HEDT or Threadripper sockets are listed.

How big is the LCD screen and what can it display?

It is a 2.72-inch IPS LCD with 640 x 640 resolution, a 60 Hz refresh rate, 690 cd/m2 brightness and 24-bit color. It can show GIFs and images, real-time system stats, or content from Google Photos, Spotify and YouTube.

Will a 420mm radiator fit in my case?

Only if your case has a 420mm (3 x 140mm) radiator mount on the top or front. Check your case's radiator support and clearance before you buy, because many mid-towers top out at 360mm.

Do I need to buy thermal paste or extra cables?

No. Thermal paste comes pre-applied on the cold plate, and a single breakout cable handles the pump, fan and lighting connections.

What software controls the pump, fan, LCD and RGB?

Everything runs through NZXT CAM, which handles display content, RGB syncing with on-screen visuals and other RGB devices, and cooling control. For current warranty terms, check the product listing or NZXT's website.

Key Features

  • SUPERIOR COOLING: The custom-designed NZXT Turbine pump efficiently cools even the most heat-prone CPUs with its high flow rate and head pressure.
  • BIGGER, BOLDER DISPLAY: Enjoy stunning visuals on the large 2.72-inch IPS LCD featuring crisp 640 x 640 resolution, smooth 60 Hz refresh rate, ultra-bright 690 cd/m² backlight, vibrant 24-bit color, and wide viewing angles.
  • MORE PERSONAL THAN EVER: Display your favorite GIF or image, monitor real-time system performance, and integrate with Google Photos, Spotify, and YouTube. Sync the RGB LED ring with on-screen content and other RGB devices for a cohesive look.
  • SIMPLE INSTALLATION: Get set up quickly with pre-applied thermal paste, a single breakout cable, and tool-free mounting brackets for the latest AMD (AM5, AM4) and Intel (LGA 1851/1700, 1200/115X) CPU sockets.
  • VIBRANTLY COOL: The RGB Core single-frame fan on the radiator provides optimal airflow and vibrant lighting, along with a sleek, integrated design for easy connectivity and control.

Full Specifications

BrandNZXT
ModelRL-KR42E-B2
Voltage12 volts_of_direct_current
Wattage120 watts
MaterialAluminum, Plastic
Unit Count1 Count
Noise Level34.5 db
Part NumberRL-KR42E-B2
Material TypeAluminum, Plastic
Cooling MethodWater
Number of Items1
Number of Packs1
SUPERIOR COOLINGThe custom-designed NZXT Turbine pump efficiently cools even the most heat-prone CPUs with its high flow rate and head pressure.
Compatible DevicesDesktop
Power Connector Type4-Pin, 3-Pin
Warranty Description6 Year Manufacturer
Global Trade Identification Number05056547204208
EU Spare Part Availability Duration6 years
Full listing titleNZXT Kraken Elite 420 RGB - 420mm AIO CPU Cooler, LCD - Black | Flagship 420mm RGB AIO with 2.36-inch LCD and F420 RGB Core fan. Our most powerful cooler, fully controlled via CAM.

Ready to buy?

NZXT Kraken Elite 420 RGB - 420mm AIO CPU Cooler, LCD - Black | Flagship 420mm RGB AIO with 2.36-inch LCD and F420 RGB Core fan. Our most powerful cooler, fully controlled via CAM. is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.

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NZXT Kraken Elite 420 RGB - 420mm AIO CPU Cooler, LCD - Black | Flagship 420mm RGB AIO with 2.36-inch LCD and F420 RGB Core fan. Our most powerful cooler, fully controlled via CAM.
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