The Thermalright Aqua Elite 360 V3 is the objective winner of this comparison, securing more individual specification victories than the NZXT Kraken Elite 360. While the NZXT Kraken Elite 360 holds a notable advantage in thermal management with a TDP rating that is 25% better, the Thermalright Aqua Elite 360 V3 provides the most significant overall value. Its primary strength lies in its MSRP, which is 74% better than that of its competitor.

Users prioritizing maximum thermal capacity for high-heat systems should select the NZXT Kraken Elite 360 to leverage its superior TDP rating. Conversely, those focused on cost-efficiency should choose the Thermalright Aqua Elite 360 V3. By opting for the Thermalright model, budget-conscious builders can take advantage of the 74% improvement in MSRP while still benefiting from a cooler that outperformed the NZXT alternative across the majority of the measured specifications.