The Best Thermal Paste to Cool Your PC

July 15, 2024 Hardware

If you're a dedicated PC gamer or tech enthusiast, maintaining your computer's temperature is crucial. One of the ways to ensure that your CPU stays cool is by using a thermal paste. Today we delve into the world of thermal pastes, guided by Tom's Hardware's best thermal paste picks.

Thermal paste, also known as thermal compound, aids in heat transfer between the CPU or GPU and the heat sink. A good thermal paste improves the thermal conductivity ensuring your PC components remain cool, thus extending their lifespan and improving performance.

Tom's Hardware, a leading authority on all things PC, has compiled a list of the top thermal pastes in the market. They've factored in aspects like thermal conductivity, ease of application, and longevity to come up with a comprehensive list suitable for different users.

Topping the list is the Arctic MX-4. This thermal paste is lauded for its impressive thermal conductivity of 8.5 W/mK, which ensures efficient heat transfer from your CPU or GPU to the heat sink. It's composed of carbon micro-particles, which lead to high thermal conductivity, ensuring that heat from your CPU or GPU is dissipated quickly and efficiently. Plus, it's metal-free and non-electrical conductive, reducing the risk of short circuits.

The Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut is another excellent choice, especially for overclockers. This high-performance thermal grease has a thermal conductivity of 12.5 W/mK, which is one of the highest on the market. Its unique structure guarantees excellent heat dissipation even under extreme loads.

For those on a budget, the Noctua NT-H1 is a fantastic option. It's renowned for its superb long-term stability, lasting up to three years without drying up. It also doesn't require a settling time, meaning you can start your PC immediately after application.

The Gelid Solutions GC-Extreme, another budget-friendly option, offers a high thermal conductivity of 8.5 W/mK. It's non-toxic, non-corrosive, and easy to apply, making it ideal for beginners.

For those who prefer a metal-based paste, the Thermal Grizzly Conductonaut stands out. It's a liquid metal thermal compound with a thermal conductivity of 73 W/mK, which is significantly higher than most pastes in the market. It's perfect for experienced users looking for extreme performance. However, it's worth noting that it's electrically conductive and can cause damage if not applied correctly.

In conclusion, the ideal thermal paste varies depending on a user's needs, budget, and skill level. Whether you're an overclocking enthusiast, a regular gamer, or a novice just getting started, Tom's Hardware's list provides a comprehensive guide to the best thermal pastes in the market, ensuring you make the right choice for your PC cooling needs.

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