• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

Use thermal paste or not?

C

Craig234

Lifer
I didn't think this was a question until I saw the PC Gamer build guide, which doesn't even mention using thermal paste on the CPU, and so it became something to double check.
 
There's no choice but to use thermal paste.

Most likely, the fan or water block specified already has thermal paste on it, so you don't need to put it on yourself.
 
Well there used to be thermal pads but I haven't seen those in a long time.

Thermal paste might also be in a small plastic tube.
 
Craig234 said:
I didn't think this was a question until I saw the PC Gamer build guide, which doesn't even mention using thermal paste on the CPU, and so it became something to double check.
Click to expand...
The author of that article should update it, in order to clarify that some sort of TIM should be used.
 
This is the guide from the February 2016 issue, and it's not specific to any CPU, you can't even tell what CPU it used. It's just general 'hold the CPU by the edges' text.
 
Craig234 said:
I checked your third link, don't see it - looks like just a parts list, this was a step by step guide for any parts.
Click to expand...

It doesn't matter. Not sure why you keep asking.

You must use TIM. Period.

Either what is already on the cooler when it's new, or from a tube of TIM provided with the cooler, or from a tube of TIM you buy yourself.

Here are a couple of stock coolers provided by AMD and Intel. You can see that both coolers come with the TIM paste already applied for you.

http://techgage.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/AMD-Wraith-CPU-Cooler-Top-View.jpg

http://www.legitreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/lga1150-heatsink-G3258-645x321.jpg

Here is a popular aftermarket cooler. You can see from the packaging that it comes with a tube of TIM.

http://noctua.at/media/catalog/prod...5d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/n/o/noctua_nh_u12s_5.jpg

Here is a popular liquid cooler. You can see that the TIM has already been applied for you.

http://img.hexus.net/v2/cooling/Corsair/H60/H60-3-big.jpg

Etc.
 
Mayonnaise is a good stop gag measure for a day or 2 till you could put something proper in.Buddy of mine got lucky using a application of it for over a week.I wouldn't consider it on a gpu though.

Speaking of thermal paste,i need a new tube of it.The local RadioShaft has some but i may just order some online.
 
At least take the plastic off the bottom of the cooler at least, but I imagine you're well aware of that by now.

Still just keep a tube of NT-H1 around myself, I have no idea why people even use Artic Silver these days, other than it had great reviews in the 90's.

But I guess there are others that do better, but I still like NT-H1.
 
Last edited:
MongGrel said:
Still just keep a tube of NT-H1 around myself, I have no idea why people even use Artic Silver these days, other than it had great reviews in the 90's.

But I guess there are others that do better, but I still like NT-H1.
Click to expand...

I have no idea which one to use, you nailed it on 'Arctic Silver is the name I recognize from years ago'.
 
Thermal grease is better than thermal paste or glue.
You wont get the heatsink off if you use paste or glue.

Oh, and if you dont upgrade for several years I recommend pulling the heatsink off, cleaning it up, and putting on fresh goop. Maybe once every two years.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top