NZXT AM5 Mounting Bracket for Kraken X and Z Series (PM-KXZSAB1-000) Review

This is a review of the NZXT AM5 Mounting Bracket for Kraken X and Z series, a necessary accessory for those looking to upgrade their AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPU cooler.
This review is based on my own experience using the bracket. I’ll be covering its installation process, compatibility, and performance to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your needs.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Features
• Performance
• Pros & Cons
• Final Verdict

Introduction

The NZXT AM5 Mounting Bracket for Kraken X and Z series is a simple but essential component for anyone with an AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPU and a Kraken X or Z series liquid cooler.
It allows you to seamlessly install your cooler on the new socket.
The bracket itself is very well-built and feels robust. It’s designed to be a permanent fixture on your cooler, allowing you to easily switch back and forth between different AMD socket generations.

Features

The AM5 Mounting Bracket is specifically designed for the following NZXT liquid coolers:

• Kraken X Series
• Kraken Z Series

It comes with all the necessary parts for a smooth installation, including:

• Backplate
• Screws
• Standoffs

The bracket’s design is optimized for easy installation and secure mounting.

Performance

The AM5 Mounting Bracket doesn’t directly impact the cooling performance of your liquid cooler. However, its key function is to ensure proper and secure mounting, which is vital for maintaining the effectiveness of your cooling system.
This is crucial, especially for high-performance CPUs that generate a significant amount of heat.
A securely mounted cooler ensures optimal heat dissipation and helps prevent damage to your CPU due to overheating.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Easy to install and remove.
• Securely mounts your cooler.
• Allows you to switch between different AMD socket generations.
• Well-built and robust.
• Backwards compatibility with AM4 motherboards.

Cons:

• Only compatible with NZXT Kraken X and Z series coolers.
• Not compatible with other AMD sockets.

Final Verdict

The NZXT AM5 Mounting Bracket for Kraken X and Z series is a must-have for anyone with an AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPU and a compatible NZXT liquid cooler.
It’s well-designed, easy to install, and ensures secure mounting, which is vital for optimal cooling performance.
If you’re looking to upgrade your AMD CPU and use a Kraken X or Z series cooler, this bracket is a necessary purchase to ensure proper compatibility and cooling.