Applying thermal paste to a CPU is a crucial step in building a computer, as it prevents overheating. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of applying thermal paste to both AMD and Intel processors.
What Is Thermal Paste?
Thermal paste is a material that is used to fill the microscopic gaps between the CPU and the heat sink, allowing for better heat transfer and preventing the CPU from overheating.
Do I need Thermal Paste?
Yes. No matter what processor you have, it will need thermal paste to work correctly. However, some CPU coolers, including stock coolers from AMD and Intel, will come with pre-applied thermal paste, usually protected by a piece of plastic during shipping. In this case, you’ll only need to remove the plastic before mounting your cooler.
How to check CPU cooler compatibility
Step 1: Gather the necessary tools:
- A tube of thermal paste
- A CPU cleaning solution such as Isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth (optional)
- Your CPU
Step 2: Prepare your CPU (Optional)
Before you apply thermal paste, you need to clean your CPU. First, turn off your computer and unplug it from the wall. Remove the CPU from the socket and clean any old thermal paste from both the CPU and the cooler using isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth. You can also use a CPU cleaning solution for this step.
For AMD processors, it’s best to apply the thermal paste in a straight line down the centre of the CPU. For Intel processors, it’s best to apply the thermal paste in a small dot in the centre of the CPU.
You’ll only need to do this step when using a pre-owned processor in a new build, or when changing your CPU cooler.
Step 4: Spread the thermal paste
Some people suggest you should spread thermal paste around your CPU with a plastic card or razor blade. This is entirely optional, as your CPU cooler will spread the paste for you, thanks to the mounting pressure.
How to Check Your CPU’s Temperature
What Thermal Paste should I buy?
We recommend Thermal Grizzly’s Kryonaut thermal paste due to its brilliant performance with high-end components. However, if you prefer another brand, Overclockers UK has a whole host of thermal compounds to choose from.
Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut High Performance Thermal Paste
- Designed especially for overclocking
- Excellent thermal conductivity
- No cure time
- High long-term stability
Is Delidding Your CPU Worth It in 2023?
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Adding thermal paste to your CPU may seem daunting at first but there is really nothing to it. Make sure to let us know your new PCs spec down in the comments so we can be all jelly.
- 3 min read
Robert Mullane
Author
When not working, you'll find me in VR or losing in bottom-tier Valorant matches. I write about all topic's tech and gaming with a particular focus on representation in gaming, virtual reality, and LGBTQ+ themes. If you're still not fed up with me, you can also catch me over on the Overclockers UK TikTok and YouTube accounts.
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