The Best Thermal Paste
How We Found The Best Thermal Paste
Experts Review
Pedals Tested
User Feedback
In the world of computer hardware and DIY enthusiasts, thermal paste plays a critical role in maintaining optimal performance and preventing overheating. Whether you’re building a gaming rig, a high-end workstation, or simply upgrading your computer’s cooling system, choosing the right thermal paste is essential.
Why Thermal Paste Matters
Thermal paste, also known as thermal compound or TIM (thermal interface material), is a heat-conductive material applied between a CPU or GPU and its heat sink or cooler. Its primary purpose is to fill microscopic imperfections in the surfaces of these components, ensuring efficient heat transfer. When these surfaces are in direct contact, even tiny air gaps can lead to a significant decrease in cooling efficiency. Properly applied thermal paste helps to bridge these gaps, ensuring that the heat generated by the CPU or GPU is efficiently conducted away, thus preventing overheating and ensuring the longevity of your computer components.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Thermal Paste
Selecting the best thermal paste involves considering several critical factors:
Thermal Conductivity: The ability of thermal paste to conduct heat is perhaps the most crucial factor. Thermal conductivity is typically measured in Watts per meter-Kelvin (W/m·K). A higher thermal conductivity rating means better heat transfer. The most efficient thermal pastes often have values between 4 to 12 W/m·K.
Viscosity: The viscosity of thermal paste impacts how easy it is to apply. Ideally, it should be easy to spread, filling gaps evenly without dripping or being too thick. A good balance is essential to avoid creating air pockets.
Durability: Over time, thermal paste may degrade or dry out, leading to a reduction in its effectiveness. The best thermal pastes are known for their long-lasting properties, maintaining performance over extended periods.
Electrical Conductivity: Some thermal pastes are electrically conductive, which can pose a risk if it comes into contact with electrical components on the motherboard. Non-conductive thermal paste is safer for most users.
Application Method: There are various methods to apply thermal paste, such as the pea-sized dot, spread method, or X-shaped application. The type of thermal paste you choose should be compatible with your preferred application technique.
Price: Thermal paste can range from budget-friendly options to high-end compounds. The price should align with your specific needs and budget.
Compatibility: Ensure that the thermal paste you select is compatible with your CPU or GPU and the cooler you intend to use. Some manufacturers provide compatibility lists, so it’s a good practice to cross-check before purchasing.
Our Testing Process
To determine the best thermal paste on the market, we conducted a series of tests to evaluate each factor mentioned above. We selected a range of popular thermal pastes, including Arctic Silver 5, Noctua NT-H1, Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut, and Artic MX-4, among others. Each of these thermal pastes was tested for thermal conductivity, viscosity, durability, electrical conductivity, and price-to-performance ratio.
- Thermal Conductivity Testing: To measure thermal conductivity, we used a controlled setup with identical CPUs and coolers for each test. We applied a consistent amount of each thermal paste and recorded the temperature differences under load. After extensive testing, the Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut consistently outperformed the others with its excellent thermal conductivity.
- Viscosity Testing: Viscosity tests involved evaluating the ease of application and consistency of each thermal paste. We used a range of application methods, from the pea-sized dot to the spread method, to gauge how well the paste adhered to the surface. Noctua NT-H1 stood out in this category, with its smooth and easy-to-spread consistency.
- Durability Testing: To assess durability, we applied the thermal pastes to a test bed and ran stress tests for an extended period to simulate real-world usage. After several months of testing, we found that Arctic MX-4 maintained its effectiveness consistently, even under prolonged stress.
- Electrical Conductivity Testing: Testing for electrical conductivity was essential to ensure the safety of our readers. All of the pastes we tested proved to be non-conductive, eliminating the risk of short circuits.
- Price-to-Performance Ratio: We compared the price of each thermal paste to its performance in our tests. The Arctic MX-4 emerged as the winner in this category, offering excellent thermal performance at a reasonable price point, making it a great choice for budget-conscious users.
Selecting the best thermal paste for your specific needs is a critical part of maintaining a well-functioning computer. Our comprehensive testing process, focusing on thermal conductivity, viscosity, durability, electrical conductivity, and price-to-performance ratio, revealed that the Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut is the best overall thermal paste, offering exceptional thermal conductivity.
However, the Noctua NT-H1 excels in viscosity and is an excellent choice for those who prioritize ease of application. The Arctic MX-4, with its durability and budget-friendly pricing, is perfect for users who require long-lasting performance without breaking the bank.
The choice of thermal paste depends on your unique requirements, budget, and the specific components you use. By understanding the factors that matter and considering our test results, you can make an informed decision to keep your computer running efficiently and prevent overheating issues.
- Cooler Master Cryofuze Violet Thermal Paste – For Processor, GPU, Console, Laptop – Highly Recommended Product
- C14 Thermal Paste 13.6 W/m*K – Subzero Overclocking – Popular Reviewers Product
- ARCTIC MX-4 (incl. Spatula, 4 g) – Premium Performance Thermal Paste for All Processors (CPU, GPU – PC, PS4, Xbox) – Easy to Use
Cooler Master Cryofuze Violet Thermal Paste - For Processor, GPU, Console, Laptop
The Cooler Master Cryofuze Violet Thermal Paste is a high-performance thermal interface material designed to meet the cooling needs of processors, GPUs, consoles, and laptops. As the demand for processing power and graphic performance continues to rise, effective heat management is crucial to maintaining the longevity and performance of these devices. This thermal paste offers a premium solution to ensure efficient heat transfer and temperature control.
At the heart of the Cryofuze Violet is its advanced formula, engineered to provide superior thermal conductivity. The paste is made with top-tier materials that maximize the rate at which heat is dissipated from the CPU or GPU to the heatsink. This leads to lower operating temperatures, ultimately enhancing the lifespan of your hardware and preventing thermal throttling that can hinder performance.
One of the standout features of this thermal paste is its vibrant violet color. Not only does this add a touch of style to your system, but it also serves a practical purpose. The color ensures that users can apply the paste accurately and evenly, preventing the risk of air bubbles or excess application. This is particularly crucial for those who may be new to thermal paste application, as it simplifies the process and minimizes the margin for error.
Cryofuze Violet is also engineered to be easy to apply. It comes with a convenient applicator, making the process user-friendly and reducing the potential mess associated with traditional thermal paste. The syringe-like design enables precise application without any waste, ensuring that the right amount is delivered to the contact surface.
Compatibility is another strength of this thermal paste. It can be used on a wide range of devices, from high-end gaming PCs and workstations to laptops and gaming consoles. This versatility means that Cryofuze Violet is a valuable addition to any tech enthusiast’s toolkit, allowing for enhanced thermal performance across a variety of devices.
In addition to its exceptional thermal performance, Cooler Master Cryofuze Violet Thermal Paste is also built to last. It remains stable under a wide range of temperatures, ensuring that your hardware stays protected and performs optimally, even in extreme conditions.
The Cooler Master Cryofuze Violet Thermal Paste is a top-tier thermal interface material that caters to the cooling needs of processors, GPUs, consoles, and laptops. Its advanced formula, user-friendly application, vibrant color, and compatibility make it a go-to choice for enthusiasts and professionals seeking optimal heat management for their devices. With Cryofuze Violet, you can count on improved thermal performance, extended hardware lifespan, and smoother gaming and computing experiences.
C14 Thermal Paste 13.6 W/m*K - Subzero Overclocking
When it comes to pushing the limits of your computer’s performance, subzero overclocking is the pinnacle of the art. Achieving extreme clock speeds and voltage levels requires not only top-of-the-line hardware but also the right thermal interface material to keep temperatures in check. Enter C14 Thermal Paste, a game-changing solution that boasts an impressive thermal conductivity of 13.6 W/m·K and is tailor-made for subzero overclocking enthusiasts.
Thermal conductivity is a critical factor in any overclocking endeavor. It measures the ability of a material to conduct heat efficiently. In the world of subzero overclocking, where extreme cooling methods like liquid nitrogen or phase-change cooling are employed, heat dissipation becomes a make-or-break factor. The C14 Thermal Paste excels in this regard, offering a thermal conductivity of 13.6 W/m·K, surpassing the capabilities of many other thermal compounds on the market.
One of the key advantages of C14 Thermal Paste is its versatility. It is engineered to perform well not only at subzero temperatures but also at everyday operating conditions. This means that whether you’re pushing your system to the brink during an intense gaming session or attempting to break world records with subzero cooling, C14 Thermal Paste has got you covered.
But C14 Thermal Paste isn’t just about raw performance; it’s also known for its long-lasting durability. Overclockers often demand a stable and reliable thermal interface material to ensure their systems can handle the extreme stress they’re subjected to. C14’s high-quality formulation ensures that it maintains its effectiveness over time, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.
Furthermore, the application process is straightforward. C14 Thermal Paste is easy to apply and spreads evenly, ensuring that your CPU or GPU is completely covered, creating an efficient thermal bridge between the processor and your cooling solution. This consistent application is critical in subzero overclocking, where every degree of cooling matters.
In the world of subzero overclocking, precision matters, and C14 Thermal Paste is engineered with overclockers’ needs in mind. It not only excels in extreme cooling scenarios but also offers long-lasting performance and ease of application. So, if you’re a passionate overclocker looking to push your hardware to its limits, C14 Thermal Paste with its impressive thermal conductivity of 13.6 W/m·K is the ultimate choice for achieving record-breaking clock speeds and temperatures. Get ready to break barriers and unlock the full potential of your system with C14 Thermal Paste.
ARCTIC MX-4 (incl. Spatula, 4 g) - Premium Performance Thermal Paste for All Processors (CPU, GPU - PC, PS4, Xbox)
The ARCTIC MX-4 Thermal Paste, bundled with a convenient spatula and weighing 4 grams, is a premium solution for optimizing the thermal performance of a wide range of processors, including CPUs and GPUs. Designed to meet the demands of both PC enthusiasts and gamers, this high-quality thermal compound offers exceptional cooling capabilities to keep your hardware running at peak efficiency.
At the heart of the MX-4’s performance is its excellent thermal conductivity. It boasts a thermal conductivity rating of 8.5 W/(mK), making it a top-tier choice for transferring heat away from your processor efficiently. This property is crucial for maintaining low temperatures and preventing thermal throttling, which can lead to reduced performance and a shorter lifespan for your hardware.
The MX-4’s versatile application extends to a variety of devices, making it a perfect choice for not only your PC components but also gaming consoles like the PS4 and Xbox. Its consistency and ease of application ensure you get the best results, whether you’re a seasoned PC builder or a first-time user. The included spatula helps you spread the paste evenly, reducing the risk of air bubbles and ensuring optimal contact between the processor and the cooling solution.
One of the standout features of MX-4 is its long-lasting performance. With its non-curing, non-conductive formula, you won’t have to worry about the paste drying out or causing electrical issues. This durability means you can enjoy sustained cooling benefits for years to come without the need for frequent reapplications.
Furthermore, the MX-4 is designed to be safe for your components, featuring a metal-free, non-electrically conductive formulation. This means it won’t damage your CPU or GPU even if it comes into contact with other parts of your system, providing peace of mind for users of all levels of expertise.
Whether you’re an overclocking enthusiast pushing your hardware to the limits or a casual gamer seeking consistent and reliable thermal performance, the ARCTIC MX-4 is a go-to choice. Its premium quality, easy application, and long-lasting results make it a must-have for anyone looking to optimize their system’s cooling and maintain their hardware’s longevity.
The ARCTIC MX-4 Thermal Paste with Spatula (4g) is a high-performance thermal compound that provides exceptional heat dissipation for a wide range of processors. Its ease of application, long-lasting performance, and compatibility with various devices, including gaming consoles, make it a top pick for both seasoned PC builders and newcomers. When it comes to enhancing thermal performance and extending the lifespan of your hardware, the MX-4 is a reliable choice that won’t disappoint.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is mx6 better than mx4?
With its improved composition, the ARCTIC MX-6 has a measurably lower thermal resistance than the MX-4. The basis for calculation is the temperature difference between the cooler base and the heat source (in C) in relation to the applied heat load (in W), which also results in the unit K/W.
What thermal paste lasts the longest?
Arctic Silver, MX-4, and IC Diamond are intended as high-performance compounds. They have low thermal resistance. Arctic MX-4 is supposed to last several years longer than most pastes.
Is expensive thermal paste better?
It is worthwhile to use premium thermal paste since it provides superior thermal conductivity and lasts longer. The frequency of thermal paste replacements is dependent on how often a PC is used. More frequent updates will be needed for PC use that is more demanding. Finally, the thermal paste’s quality is important.
Is it OK to use any thermal paste?
It’s important to choose a paste with the proper thermal conductivity levels to provide high versatility and total reliability to keep your system safe and cool. Each thermal paste comes with its own thermal conductivity rating for how efficient it is at transferring heat from the processor to the heatsink.
Is 1G thermal paste enough?
Unless your laptop has a desktop processor (yes, they do exist) and a discreet graphics chip (if it has anything nvidia on it, or an intel with an amd processor would also have a discreet unit in most likelihood).. then yes, 1G should be more than sufficient to re-paste your laptop a time or two.
What is thermal paste, and why is it important?
Thermal paste is a heat-conductive material used to improve the thermal conductivity between a CPU/GPU and its cooler, preventing overheating.
How often should I replace thermal paste?
It’s generally recommended to replace thermal paste every 2-3 years to maintain optimal heat transfer efficiency.
Can I use any thermal paste for my CPU/GPU?
No, it’s crucial to use a high-quality thermal paste suitable for your specific hardware to ensure proper thermal conductivity.
What’s the difference between metal-based and non-metal-based thermal paste?
Metal-based pastes usually have higher thermal conductivity but may carry a risk of short-circuiting components. Non-metal-based pastes are safer.
How do I apply thermal paste?
Common methods include the pea-sized dot, line, or spread method. Consult your hardware’s manual for specific instructions.