Introducing the 12 Best CPU Thermal Paste for 2023: Your Comprehensive Guide to Superior Cooling Performance. Whether you are a dedicated gamer, a professional content creator, or simply someone who values efficient computing, having the right thermal paste for your CPU is crucial. As technology advances, so do the thermal demands of high-performance processors, which is why it's important to stay updated with the top options available in the market. In this article, we will explore the best CPU thermal pastes for 2023, offering you a detailed analysis of their features, durability, and overall cooling performance. Stay tuned to make an informed decision and ensure optimal thermal management for your CPU.
Overall Score: 8.4/10
The Corsair XTM50 High Performance Thermal Compound Paste is a premium zinc oxide-based thermal compound that offers optimal thermal performance for your CPU and GPU. By replacing the existing thermal compound or applying it to a new CPU or GPU, it improves heat transfer and lowers temperatures. The ultra-low thermal impedance provided by XTM50 ensures lower CPU temperatures compared to common thermal paste. With an included application stencil and spreader, installation is made easy, taking away the guesswork. XTM50's low-viscosity allows it to fill microscopic abrasions and channels effectively, ensuring peak thermal transfer. It has a long service life and remains stable over time, with no drying, cracking, or change in consistency. Additionally, it is non-conductive and contains zero volatile compounds, making it safe for both you and your PC.
Key Features
- Premium zinc oxide-based thermal compound
- Improves heat transfer and lowers temperatures
- Ultra-low thermal impedance for lower CPU temperatures
- Easy installation with an included application stencil and spreader
- Fills microscopic abrasions and channels for peak thermal transfer
- Long service life with no drying, cracking, or change in consistency
- Non-conductive and contains zero volatile compounds
Specifications
- Dimension: 5.19Lx4.33Wx5.19H
- Size: 5g
Pros
- Premium thermal compound for optimal performance
- Easy application with included stencil and spreader
- Long-lasting and stable over time
- Non-conductive and safe for your PC
Cons
- No clear instructions for thermal paste application
- May require some trial and error for first-time users
The Corsair XTM50 High Performance Thermal Compound Paste is a reliable choice for improving CPU and GPU cooling. With its premium formula and ultra-low thermal impedance, it effectively lowers temperatures and enhances heat transfer. Installation is made easy with the included stencil and spreader, and its long service life ensures durable performance. While it may lack clear instructions for beginners, the XTM50 offers great value for its price. Whether you’re an experienced system builder or a regular user looking to optimize cooling, the Corsair XTM50 is a solid thermal compound option.
Overall Score: 9/10
The ARCTIC MX-4 is a premium performance thermal paste designed for all processors. It has an excellent performance with extremely high thermal conductivity, allowing for quick and efficient heat dissipation. The MX-4 is safe to use as it is metal-free and non-electrical conductive, providing protection to the CPU and VGA cards. It is easy to apply, even for beginners, and comes with a spatula for convenient use. With its well-proven quality and long durability, the MX-4 is a reliable choice for anyone in need of a thermal paste for their computer or gaming console. Overall, it is a highly recommended product that offers great value for its price.
Key Features
- Well proven quality
- Excellent performance
- Safe application
- 100 % Original through authenticity check
- Easy to apply
Specifications
- Color: Grey
- Dimension: 1.20Lx2.80Wx5.90H
- Size: MX-4
Pros
- High thermal conductivity
- Metal-free and non-electrical conductive
- Easy to apply with included spatula
Cons
- Viscosity may cause paste to stick to spatula
- Spatula not practical for paste application
The ARCTIC MX-4 is a top-quality thermal paste that offers excellent performance and ease of use. It effectively dissipates heat and provides adequate protection to the CPU and VGA cards. The included spatula is a nice addition, although it may cause some paste wastage due to its viscosity. Overall, this thermal paste delivers great value for its price, making it a reliable choice for both beginner and experienced users. Whether you’re upgrading an old GPU or building a new system, the ARCTIC MX-4 is a solid investment that can help improve your computer’s thermal performance.
Overall Score: 9/10
The ARCTIC MX-6 is an ultimate performance thermal paste suitable for CPUs, consoles, graphics cards, and laptops. It offers very high thermal conductivity, long durability, and is non-conductive and non-capacitive. With a measurably lower thermal resistance than the MX-4, it provides 20% better performance. The MX-6 has versatile application possibilities and an easy-to-use consistency. It is also safe to use as it is neither electrically conductive nor capacitive. Its new composition makes it suitable for many application scenarios, including direct-die cooling for GPUs and console processors. The MX-6 is authentic and can be verified through an authenticity check. Overall, it is an excellent thermal paste option for achieving optimal cooling and performance.
Key Features
- 20% better performance than MX-4
- Proven quality with over 20 years of experience
- Risk-free application with no risk of short circuits
- Versatile application for various scenarios
- Authenticity check for verification
Specifications
- Color: Grey
- Dimension: 3.94Lx3.94Wx3.94H
- Size: 4 g
Pros
- Measurably lower thermal resistance
- Easy to use and spread
- Safe and non-conductive
- Suitable for direct-die cooling
- Authenticity can be verified
Cons
- Slow shipment for some customers
- Thicker consistency compared to other pastes
The ARCTIC MX-6 is a highly recommended thermal paste for achieving ultimate performance and cooling in various devices. With 20% better performance than its predecessor, the MX-4, it offers an easy-to-use consistency and versatile application possibilities. Its non-conductive and non-capacitive nature eliminates the risk of short circuits, making it safe for use. The MX-6 is suitable for CPUs, consoles, graphics cards, and laptops, and can even be used for direct-die cooling scenarios. The authenticity of each product can be verified through an authenticity check. Although some customers experienced slow shipment, overall, the ARCTIC MX-6 is a reliable and effective thermal paste option.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut is a high-performance thermal paste specifically designed for cooling processors, graphics cards, and heat sinks in computers and consoles. It boasts a thermal conductivity of 12.5W/(m·K), making it perfect for demanding configurations. The paste's unique structure ensures long-lasting effectiveness even at high temperatures without drying out. It provides outstanding results by immediately lowering temperatures, reducing equipment noise, and improving user comfort. The Kryonaut thermal paste has been confirmed by multiple tests as a top-performing option that meets the highest quality criteria. With its 1 gram size, it can be used for up to 6 CPUs depending on the size of your DIY projects.
Key Features
- 12.5W/(m·K) THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY
- Easy to use with included spatula
- Long-lasting effectiveness even at high temperatures
- Outstanding results in reducing temperatures and improving performance
- Ideal for both standard computer users and overclocking enthusiasts
- 1 gram size usable for up to 6 CPUs
Specifications
- Dimension: 25.20Lx25.20Wx7.60H
- Size: 1 Gram
Pros
- High thermal conductivity for demanding configurations
- Comes with a specially constructed spatula for easy application
- Long-lasting effectiveness even at high temperatures
- Immediate temperature reduction and improved user comfort
- Verified top-performing option for quality-conscious users
- Generous 1 gram size usable for multiple CPUs
Cons
- Price may be slightly higher compared to other options
- Some users found the paste to be difficult to spread
The Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut is a game-changer when it comes to thermal management for electronic components. Its exceptional heat transfer capabilities and long-lasting effectiveness make it a superior choice for both standard computer users and overclocking enthusiasts. The included spatula ensures easy and precise application without any mess. While the price may be slightly higher, the outstanding thermal performance and reliability justify the investment. This paste not only reduces temperatures and equipment noise but also maximizes the potential of your cooling solution under demanding conditions. Whether you’re overclocking or simply seeking optimal cooling, the Kryonaut thermal paste delivers impressive results.
Overall Score: 9/10
The ARCTIC MX-4 (4 g) is a premium performance thermal paste designed for all processors, including CPUs and GPUs. With its very high thermal conductivity, it quickly and efficiently dissipates heat, keeping your devices cool. The MX-4 is safe to use, as it is metal-free and non-electrical conductive, eliminating the risk of short circuit. It is also easy to apply, even for beginners. The gray paste comes in a compact size and offers long durability. It is 100% original, and each product can be verified for authenticity. Overall, the ARCTIC MX-4 is a well-proven quality thermal paste that delivers excellent performance.
Key Features
- WELL PROVEN QUALITY: High quality thermal paste.
- EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE: Made of carbon microparticles for high thermal conductivity.
- SAFE APPLICATION: Metal-free and non-electrical conductive.
- 100% ORIGINAL THROUGH AUTHENTICITY CHECK: Verify authenticity of every single product.
- EASY TO APPLY: Ideal consistency, even for beginners.
Specifications
- Color: Grey
- Dimension: 0.59Lx3.11Wx7.36H
- Size: MX-4
Pros
- Affordable and great for PC building.
- Keeps CPU cool.
- Better thermal conductivity and longer lifespan.
- Ideal quantity for multiple applications.
- Easy to use and spread.
Cons
- Smaller size than expected.
- Can be messy during application.
The ARCTIC MX-4 (4 g) thermal paste is a reliable and high-performance choice for keeping your processors cool. It offers excellent thermal conductivity, easy application, and a long lifespan. While the size may be smaller than expected, this paste provides great value for money, making it ideal for PC building and replacing old thermal paste. However, users should take care during application, as it can be messy. Overall, the ARCTIC MX-4 is a gold standard thermal paste that delivers on its promises and is highly recommended for all computing enthusiasts.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Cooler Master CryoFuze Ultra-High Performance Thermal Paste is designed to deliver superior heat conductivity for your CPU or GPU. With nanoparticles and a K value of 14W/mK, it can handle even the most extreme system builds. Its anhygroscopic properties ensure that it is electrically insulated and does not absorb moisture, protecting your CPU. The viscously balanced formula allows for easy application and clean up. The non corrosive and oxidation resistant formula leaves metal surfaces unharmed and does not solidify. Overall, this thermal paste provides efficient heat transfer, keeping your CPU or GPU cool and stable.
Key Features
- High Performance: Utilizes nanoparticles for superior heat conductivity for your CPU or GPU.
- Exceptional Thermal Conductivity: K value of 14W/m K handles even the most extreme system builds.
- Anhygroscopic (non moisture absorbent): Electrically insulated and non-moisture absorbent properties to protect your CPU.
- Easy Application: Viscously balanced formula allow for easy application and clean up.
- Non Corrosive Formula: Non corrosive and oxidation resistant properties leave metal surfaces unharmed and does not solidify.
Specifications
- Color: Cryo Fuze
- Size: Cryo Fuze
Pros
- Superior heat conductivity for CPU/GPU
- Handles extreme system builds
- Protects CPU with non-moisture absorbent properties
- Easy to apply and clean up
- Non corrosive and does not solidify
Cons
- Thick and can be messy to apply
- Some users reported issues with spreading the paste
The Cooler Master CryoFuze Ultra-High Performance Thermal Paste is a reliable choice for anyone looking to improve their CPU or GPU cooling. With its superior heat conductivity and anhygroscopic properties, it offers efficient heat transfer and protection for your CPU. While it may be thick and slightly difficult to spread, its performance and durability make up for it. The easy application and clean up process add to its convenience. With a score of 8.5, this thermal paste is highly recommended for those seeking better thermal management in their computer systems.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
The ARCTIC MX-4 is a premium performance thermal paste designed for all processors. With its well-proven quality and excellent performance, it guarantees extremely high thermal conductivity to quickly and efficiently dissipate heat from the CPU/GPU. Its safe application eliminates the risk of short circuit, providing added protection. The MX-4 is easy to apply, even for beginners, and comes with a spatula for convenience. It is metal-free and non-electrical conductive, ensuring safe usage. The MX-4 is 100% original through authenticity check, allowing you to verify its authenticity. With its grey color and compact size, it is a reliable thermal paste that delivers great value for its price.
Key Features
- Well proven quality
- Excellent performance
- Safe application
- 100 % Original through authenticity check
- Easy to apply
Specifications
- Color: Grey
- Dimension: 0.02Lx11.42Wx11.42H
- Size: MX-4
Pros
- Well-proven quality
- High thermal conductivity
- Safe and easy application
- Authenticity verification
- Ideal consistency for beginners
Cons
- Average performance compared to newer options
The ARCTIC MX-4 is a reliable thermal paste that offers good value for its price. Its well-proven quality and excellent performance ensure efficient heat dissipation from the CPU/GPU. The safe application eliminates the risk of short circuit, providing added protection. With its easy-to-use consistency and authenticity check, it is suitable for both beginners and experienced users. However, compared to newer thermal paste options, the MX-4 may have average performance. For high-end systems, there are better alternatives like Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut and Thermalright TF8. Overall, the MX-4 is a solid choice for repasting old GPUs and less demanding applications.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The JLJ Thermal Paste is a high-performance solution for cooling CPUs, GPUs, and graphics cards. It is a carbon-based thermal compound that offers exceptional thermal conductivity, effectively dissipating the heat generated by the processor. With its metal-free and non-electrical conductive formula, the paste eliminates the risk of short circuits. Unlike other thermal adhesives, the JLJ paste is highly durable and can last up to 5 years without compromising its performance. The package includes a convenient tool kit with applicators and wipes for smooth and even application. Widely recognized by enthusiasts and influencers, the JLJ Thermal Paste provides excellent value for money.
Key Features
- SAFE APPLICATION: Metal-free and non-electrical conductive
- BETTER THAN LIQUID METAL: High thermal conductivity with carbon particles
- HIGH DURABILITY: Lasts at least 5 years without compromise
- COMES WITH A TOOL KIT: Easy application for beginners
- PERFECT CHOICE FOR EVERYONE: Cost-effective and highly recommended
Specifications
- Dimension: 7.87Lx3.94Wx0.39H
- Size: 3G
Pros
- Safe and reliable application
- Excellent thermal conductivity
- Long-lasting durability
- Convenient tool kit included
- Affordable and widely recommended
Cons
- Tricky to remove the top
- Limited effectiveness after 48 hours
The JLJ Thermal Paste is an impressive product that delivers exceptional performance for cooling CPUs, GPUs, and graphics cards. With its high thermal conductivity and long-lasting durability, it effectively dissipates heat while ensuring the safety of your devices. The included tool kit makes it easy to apply, even for beginners. Although there are some minor drawbacks such as the tricky top removal and limited effectiveness after 48 hours, the overall value and performance of the JLJ Thermal Paste make it a top choice for both enthusiasts and budget-conscious users.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Easycargo 6.5 W/m-k Thermal Paste Kit is a high-performance thermal grease compound designed for cooling the interface of cooler heatsink and computer processor CPU GPU IC Chips. With a thermal conductivity of over 6.5 W/m-k and a thermal resistance of 0.0016 k-in/W, this thermal paste helps to effectively dissipate heat and maintain optimal temperature levels. Each pack includes 1 gram of high-performance thermal paste/grease, providing enough for multiple applications. The paste can withstand a wide temperature range of -30/280°c. It is easy to use and comes with a plastic tool for spreading. Its small size and versatility make it suitable for various applications, including RC motors, Nintendo Switch, GPUs, and more.
Key Features
- Thermal conductivity > 6.5 W/m-k
- Thermal resistance 0.0016 k-in/W
- Working Temperature: -30/280°c
- Each pack includes 1 gram high performance thermal paste/grease
- Can be applied for cooling the interface of cooler heatsink and Computer Processor CPU GPU IC Chips, etc.
Specifications
- Color: 1-pack
- Dimension: 1.57Lx0.39Wx0.39H
Pros
- High thermal conductivity for effective heat dissipation
- Easy to use and includes a plastic spreading tool
- Suitable for various applications
- Affordable price
- Small size for convenient storage
Cons
- One-time use item
- May be too small for some applications
The Easycargo 6.5 W/m-k Thermal Paste Kit is a reliable and affordable solution for effectively cooling computer processors, GPUs, and more. With its high thermal conductivity and easy application, this thermal paste provides optimal heat dissipation and helps prevent overheating issues. It is suitable for users who need a small amount of thermal paste for their specific needs. However, due to its size, it may not be suitable for larger applications. Overall, this thermal paste delivers excellent performance and offers great value for money.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The ARCTIC MX-4 (8 g) is a premium performance thermal paste designed for all processors. It offers very high thermal conductivity, ensuring that heat from the CPU and GPU is quickly and efficiently dissipated. The paste is safe to apply as it is metal-free and non-electrical conductive, eliminating the risk of short circuits. With its ideal consistency, it is easy to use, even for beginners. The MX-4 has been well proven for its quality and the formula of the composition has remained unchanged over the years. The grey thermal paste comes in a 8 g pack and is 100% original. It has received a customer rating of 4.8/5.
Key Features
- Well proven quality
- Excellent performance
- Safe application
- 100 % Original through authenticity check
- Easy to apply
Specifications
- Color: Grey
- Dimension: 4.72Lx4.72Wx0.79H
- Size: 8 g
Pros
- High thermal conductivity
- Safe and easy to apply
- Well-proven quality
Cons
- May leak a bit when applying
- No spreading spatula included
The ARCTIC MX-4 (8 g) is a reliable and high-performance thermal paste that ensures efficient heat dissipation for CPUs and GPUs. With its metal-free and non-electrical conductive properties, it offers a safe and worry-free application. The paste’s consistent texture makes it user-friendly, even for beginners. Its high thermal conductivity and durability make it a top choice for computer enthusiasts and professionals. While it may have minor drawbacks like slight leaking and the absence of a spreading spatula, the MX-4 overall delivers excellent results. Whether you’re upgrading your CPU or GPU, this thermal paste provides the perfect solution to keep your computer running cool.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Noctua NT-H1 3.5g Pro-Grade Thermal Compound Paste is a premium-grade thermal compound that offers optimal heat transfer from the CPU or GPU to the heatsink. It is renowned for its superior performance and has received more than 150 awards and recommendations. The thermal compound is easy to apply, without the need to spread it before heatsink installation, and can be easily cleaned with a dry paper towel or tissue. It is suitable for use with both air and liquid coolers, making it versatile for different cooling setups. With its trusted Noctua quality, the NT-H1 provides excellent long-term stability and can be stored for up to 3 years. It is compatible with various devices, including CPUs, GPUs, gaming consoles, and laptops. The NT-H1 comes in a 3.5g pack, which provides around 3 to 20 applications, depending on the CPU size. If you're looking for a reliable thermal compound that delivers efficient heat transfer and lower temperatures, the Noctua NT-H1 3.5g Pro-Grade Thermal Compound Paste is an excellent choice.
Key Features
- Renowned premium-grade thermal compound for optimal heat-transfer
- Easy to apply and easy to clean
- Significantly lower temperatures compared to stock pastes
- Trusted Noctua quality with excellent long-term stability
- 3.5g pack for multiple applications
Specifications
- Color: White
- Dimension: 8.50Lx6.00Wx0.50H
Pros
- Premium-grade thermal compound for optimal heat transfer
- Easy to apply and clean
- Can significantly lower temperatures
- Trusted Noctua quality with excellent stability
Cons
- Some users find the packaging too large for the product
- One user reported a defective headphone
The Noctua NT-H1 3.5g Pro-Grade Thermal Compound Paste is a premium-grade thermal compound that offers optimal heat transfer from the CPU or GPU to the heatsink. It is easy to apply and clean, making it convenient for users. This thermal compound can significantly lower temperatures compared to stock pastes, providing efficient cooling for various devices. It comes in a 3.5g pack, which allows for multiple applications. With trusted Noctua quality and excellent long-term stability, the NT-H1 is a reliable choice for anyone looking to improve heat dissipation in their computer or technology products. Despite some minor issues with packaging size and a reported defective headphone, the Noctua NT-H1 delivers top-notch performance and is highly recommended for its price point.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Arctic Silver 5 Thermal Cooling Compound Paste 3.5g is a high-density polysynthetic silver paste that provides excellent performance and stability. With its unique composition of thermally conductive filler and ceramic particles, this paste offers lower CPU temperatures and improved heat transfer. The 3.5g syringe provides enough compound to cover multiple CPU cores or heat plates. It also comes with a bonus tool for easy application. The paste has received rave reviews from customers, with many praising its effectiveness and reliability. However, some users reported missing items in the package. Overall, the Arctic Silver 5 Thermal Cooling Compound Paste 3.5g is a top choice for those looking to enhance their computer's cooling performance.
Key Features
- Contains over 88% thermally conductive filler
- Enhanced with ceramic particles for improved performance
- Comes with bonus tool for easy application
- Provides lower CPU temperatures compared to standard compounds
- 3.5g syringe covers multiple CPU cores or heat plates
Specifications
- Color: AS5 3.5G w/Tool
- Dimension: 1.57Lx1.18Wx0.39H
Pros
- High thermal conductivity for better heat transfer
- Easy to apply with bonus tool
- Provides stable and accurate temperature readings
- Long-lasting and reliable performance
Cons
- Some users reported missing items in the package
The Arctic Silver 5 Thermal Cooling Compound Paste 3.5g is a highly effective and reliable product for improving the cooling performance of your computer. With its high thermal conductivity and enhanced performance, it provides lower CPU temperatures and ensures stable temperature readings. The bonus tool makes application easy, and the 3.5g syringe offers good coverage. While some users experienced missing items in the package, the overall performance and customer satisfaction make this product a top choice. Whether you’re a professional or a DIY enthusiast, the Arctic Silver 5 Thermal Cooling Compound Paste 3.5g is a must-have for optimizing your computer’s cooling system.
Buyer's Guide: CPU Thermal Paste
Overview:CPU thermal paste is a crucial component when it comes to keeping your computer's processor cool. It helps improve heat transfer between the CPU and the cooler, ensuring optimal performance and preventing overheating. With a variety of options available in the market, it's essential to choose the right thermal paste for your needs. This buyer's guide aims to provide you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision.
Factors to Consider:
When selecting a CPU thermal paste, here are some important factors to keep in mind:
- Thermal Conductivity: Look for a thermal paste with high thermal conductivity as it signifies better heat transfer between the CPU and the cooler.
- Consistency: Consider the texture of the thermal paste. You'll find options ranging from liquid to semi-solid or even solid. Choose one that matches your expertise level.
- Application Method: Different thermal pastes require different application methods. Some use the pea-sized dot technique, while others may require spreading with a razor blade or a specific tool. Ensure you're comfortable with the chosen method.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the thermal paste you choose is compatible with your CPU and cooler. Some pastes work better with specific brands or models, so check the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Curing Time: Curing time refers to the time required for the thermal paste to settle and reach its full efficiency. Some pastes have shorter curing times, while others may take longer. Consider this factor if you require immediate functionality or will be applying it in a time-sensitive environment.
- Price: Prices of thermal paste can vary significantly. While higher prices may reflect superior performance, it's important to compare prices and features to find the best value for your needs.
Benefits of Using CPU Thermal Paste:
Using high-quality thermal paste offers several advantages, including:
- Heat Transfer: Thermal paste plays a crucial role in facilitating heat transfer between the CPU and the cooler, preventing overheating and potential damage to your computer's components.
- Reduced Noise: By effectively cooling the CPU, thermal paste helps maintain optimal performance, reducing the need for fans to spin at high speeds and generating less noise.
- Extended Lifespan: By preventing overheating, thermal paste can help extend the lifespan of your computer's components and minimize the risk of system failures.
- Improved Performance: Thermal paste ensures that your CPU operates at its full potential by efficiently dissipating heat, thereby enhancing overall performance and responsiveness of your computer.
Frequently Asked Questions about 12 Best CPU Thermal Paste for 2023
Thermal paste generally doesn’t require frequent reapplication unless you’re disassembling or upgrading your CPU cooler. However, if you notice high temperatures or degraded performance, it may be worth considering reapplying thermal paste.
It’s generally not recommended to reuse thermal paste once it’s been applied. After removal, the paste may have degraded or absorbed air pockets, reducing its effectiveness. It’s best to use a fresh application for optimal performance.
To clean off old thermal paste, use a lint-free cloth or isopropyl alcohol. Gently wipe away the old paste until the surface is clean. Avoid using excessive force or scratching the CPU or cooler surface.
No. Applying too much thermal paste can actually hinder heat transfer, leading to poorer performance. Remember, less is more when it comes to thermal paste. A tiny, pea-sized dot or a thin line is usually sufficient.
While it’s generally safe to mix different brands of thermal paste, it’s best to stick with a single brand if possible. Each brand may have variations in performance, curing time, or compatibility, so it’s advisable to use a single brand for optimal results.
