Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix XT
420mm AIO · 2200 RPM · iCUE LINK
NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB
360 AIO
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix XT lands at 89 and NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB at 89. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix XT if…
- ✓420 mm radiator handles even RTX 5090-class CPUs
- ✓iCUE LINK simplifies cabling
- ✓LCD display optional
Pick NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB if…
- ✓Multi-socket bracket support
- ✓Quiet fans at idle
- ✓Strong TDP rating
Winner by scenario
Derived from the sub-score breakdown · not a separate testNoise
TieCompared on the noise sub-score
Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.
Value for money
TieSpecdex score per dollar at MSRP
Effectively tied — similar score-per-dollar at MSRP.
Score breakdown
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix XT | NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB |
|---|---|---|
| Type | 420mm AIO | 360 AIO |
| Fan size | 3× 140 mm ML140 RGB | — |
| Pump speed | 2400 RPM | — |
| Sockets | AM5 / AM4 / LGA1851 / LGA1700 / sTRX4 | — |
| Tube length | 450 mm | — |
| Warranty | 5 years | — |
Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix XT
- +420 mm radiator handles even RTX 5090-class CPUs
- +iCUE LINK simplifies cabling
- +LCD display optional
- −420mm requires E-ATX or larger case
- −Pricey vs Arctic competitor
- −iCUE software heavy
NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB
- +Multi-socket bracket support
- +Quiet fans at idle
- +Strong TDP rating
- −Height may conflict with RAM heatspreaders
- −AIO pump noise varies
- −Installation requires motherboard-off
FAQ: Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix XT vs NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB
Which is better, Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix XT or NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB? +
Both score 89 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix XT worth the price? +
At $309, Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix XT delivers a Specdex score of 89 — strongest in cooling.
Is NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB worth the price? +
At $329, NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB delivers a Specdex score of 89 — strongest in thermals.
Does Corsair iCUE H170i Elite Capellix XT or NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.