Compare: Dark Rock Pro 4 vs Kraken-X53

Design and Aesthetics:

Dark Rock Pro 4

The Be Quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 cooler has a cool and sleek design, with a matte black finish that makes it look awesome in any computer. It's built really well, which means it's good at keeping your computer cool and will last a long time. The top plate design may make it hard to see if the middle fan is working properly, but it's not a big issue for most people.

Kraken-X53

Sporting an all-black aesthetic, this cooler presents an innovative infinity screen showcasing the NZXT logo. While it provides subtle RGB accents on the AIO pump, it avoids overwhelming RGB effects, appealing to users seeking a tastefully subdued lighting rather than an overpowering RGB setup.

Install Notes:

Dark Rock Pro 4

Putting together the Dark Rock Pro 4 cooler can be tough, especially since it's a premium cooler. There are a few things that make it harder to install. First, it uses a metal bar to attach to the computer's motherboard, and it can be tricky to get it in the right spot. Second, the system for attaching the fan to the cooler isn't very easy to use because it doesn't have a helpful spot to lift the metal. You might need to use your nails or other tools to put the fan on, which makes it more complicated. Lastly, there's a metal plate at the top of the cooler that makes it look nice and helps with noise, but it also blocks your view of the middle fan and makes it harder to attach the cooler to the mount.

Because of its design, the Dark Rock Pro 4 cooler might be a better choice for people who have built computers before. If you're new to building computers, it could be pretty challenging. But there is a good thing about this cooler: it doesn't cause problems with fitting your computer's memory (RAM) in most setups, which is an issue with some other coolers.

Kraken-X53

Installing this AIO is relatively straightforward, especially when compared to some other AIO models. When it comes to mounting the radiator, the initial step involves attaching the fans to it. However, it's worth noting that the screws used to secure the radiator to the PC case are relatively short and may not be sufficient for cases with thick materials. As for the pump installation, it follows a conventional process with four screws connecting it to the backplate, ensuring the AIO pump is securely placed on the CPU. Additionally, the AIO tubes offer flexibility, allowing for convenient adjustments to achieve an optimal setup placement.

Cooling Performance:

Dark Rock Pro 4

When it comes to keeping your computer cool, the Dark Rock Pro 4 is amazing with above average cooling performance. It's also one of the quietest coolers out there, which is great if you want a peaceful computer. It can handle really powerful CPUs and keeps everything cool, even when you're playing games or doing other hard tasks. It has two towers and two special fans that help get rid of the heat really well.

Kraken-X53

The NZXT Kraken x53 stands out as a cooling solution capable of handling high temperatures, delivering excellent cooling performance that can rival top-tier air coolers like the NH-D15. It's perfectly suited for setups seeking remarkable cooling efficiency , all without the bulkier dimensions often associated with larger air cooling solutions. However, much of the performance gained from this cooler is driven by the high RPM fans.

Noise Performance:

Dark Rock Pro 4

Just like the name says, Be Quiet! makes coolers that are super quiet, and the Dark Rock Pro 4 is no different. It has special fans and ways to stop vibrations, so it keeps your computer cool without making a lot of noise. This is perfect if you want a quiet computer.

Kraken-X53

Equipped with dual 120mm fans capable of reaching high RPMs, this cooler may exhibit more noise compared to its counterparts. Nonetheless, this characteristic offers a wider array of choices for optimizing cooling performance during CPU-intensive tasks. It's worth noting, however, that there are alternative cooling solutions, both in the air and all-in-one (AIO) categories, which deliver better noise-to-performance ratios.

Summary:

Dark Rock Pro 4

The Be Quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 cooler is perfect if you want a powerful, good-looking, and really quiet cooler for your computer. It's great at keeping your computer cool and is easy to put in, so it's a top choice for all kinds of people who build computers, whether for work or gaming. Just keep in mind that the installation can be a bit more challenging than other coolers, especially for beginners.

Kraken-X53

The NZXT Kraken x53 delivers strong cooling performance, thanks to its dual high-RPM 120mm fans. However, it can be noisier compared to alternatives in both air and AIO categories that offer better noise-to-performance ratios. Sporting an understated all-black design with subtle RGB accents, it appeals to those seeking tasteful lighting options. Its compact form factor suits setups prioritizing efficient cooling without excess bulk, although it's important to note that a significant part of its performance hinges on the high RPM fans.