I thought all thermal paste was the same until a CPU overheated

I used to buy the cheapest thermal paste for repairs. Then a customer's CPU kept throttling after I applied it. I switched to a mid-range paste and the temps dropped by 15 degrees. Now I won't skimp on it. Anyone have a favorite brand they trust?

3 comments

3 Comments

hunt.rowan1mo ago

Honestly, that bargain bin paste was probably just glue and ground-up candy. Tbh it's wild how that gunk can turn a decent CPU into a space heater. You really do get what you pay for with that stuff. Ngl, learning that lesson the hard way is a right of passage for building PCs. My rule now is if the paste costs less than a coffee, it's not going near my hardware.

ivan2111mo ago

For my personal builds I always grab Arctic MX-4. It spreads easily and stays put for years without drying out. That consistency is worth the few extra dollars to me.

milawright1mo ago

Totally get that. Once you find something that works and isn't fiddly to apply, you just stick with it. Saves so much hassle.