Alpenfohn Black Ridge vs NZXT Kraken M22

Verdict

Overall, the Alpenfohn Black Ridge is a good performing cooler with a great build quality, but it has limitations due to its peculiar shape and mounting system. It is best suited for small ITX systems housed in a Dan SFX case, and requires a compatible motherboard with smaller VR heatsinks and a riser cable for the graphics card. It has been found to perform better than taller options and is comparable to Noctua's NH-L12S. However, early V2 models require some modification and the combination AM3/AM4 mounting bracket interferes with some B550/X570 motherboards. Custom unsleeved silicon cables and silicon gaskets for the fan can be helpful in managing the cooler. It pairs well with the Dan A4 case and is a good option for cooling in height-restricted layouts.

Verdict

Overall, the NZXT Kraken M22 receives mixed reviews. Many users praise its powerful cooling performance and near-silent operation, while others complain about the poorly written manual and the need for additional adapters to use certain motherboards. Some users also report defects in the product and issues with the software installation process. However, for those who have had a positive experience, the NZXT Kraken M22 is a great addition to their build and keeps their CPU cool even under heavy load.