40% is significant! I also didnt take into account the larger fan size, the larger the fan, the slower it needs to spin to move air so good call. I think Ill start looking at 280mm AIO options.

Id like to keep the budget for the CPU where it is considering the Motherboards are expensive for AM5 chips. Nice to hear its a solid CPU choice.

Do you think that the thermalright CPU Backplate is necessary if I were to go with a Kraken Z63 AIO cooler?

https://www.amazon.com/Thermalright-Contact-Anti-Bending-Buckle-Secure/dp/B0BKZN94BZ/ref=sr\_1\_3?crid=2LA5ZW8XUKU7U&keywords=thermalright%2BAM5%2Bbackplate&qid=1683066390&sprefix=thermalright%2Bam5%2Bbackplat%2Caps%2C231&sr=8-3&th=1

I am aware that I will need to acquire an AM5 mounting plate for this cooler. Does anyone have experience with getting this mounting plate from NZXT directly? Turn around times for receiving it?

Thanks for the input.