Every CPU cooler needs thermal paste for proper heat transfer, and many come with it pre-applied or included in the box. If not, you’ll need to apply it yourself.
Most CPU coolers come with thermal paste, either pre-applied or included in a tube. For my first PC build, the stock cooler had thermal paste already applied, which made things easier.
With aftermarket coolers, I had to check if paste was included, as some don’t come with it. Always check the packaging or manual before starting.
What is Thermal Paste?
Thermal paste, also known as thermal grease or thermal compound, is a substance placed between a CPU and its cooler. It fills tiny gaps between the two surfaces to improve heat transfer, hence keeping the CPU cool and performing efficiently.
Do CPU Coolers Come with Thermal Paste?
The answer depends on the type of CPU cooler you are using.
1. Stock Coolers
Pre-applied Thermal Paste:
Most stock coolers that come bundled with CPUs, such as AMD’s Wraith series or older Intel stock coolers, typically have thermal paste pre-applied to the base of the heatsink. This eliminates the need to purchase or apply thermal paste separately, simplifying the installation process.
Performance Considerations:
The pre-applied paste on stock coolers is generally sufficient for basic computing tasks or moderate workloads. However, if you’re building a high-performance system or plan to overclock, you might benefit from using aftermarket thermal paste with better thermal conductivity.
2. Aftermarket Coolers
Aftermarket coolers offer more variety, and their inclusion of thermal paste depends on the brand and model.
Pre-applied Paste:
Many aftermarket air coolers and all-in-one (AIO) liquid coolers come with thermal paste pre-applied. Brands like Cooler Master, Noctua, and Corsair often include this feature, saving users time and effort.
Separate Tube of Thermal Paste:
Some high-end coolers include a separate tube of thermal paste in the packaging. This allows users to apply it themselves, which can be beneficial if the cooler needs to be reinstalled in the future. High-performance thermal pastes like Noctua’s NT-H1 or Arctic MX-4 are commonly bundled with premium coolers.
No Thermal Paste Included:
Certain budget or niche coolers may not include thermal paste. In such cases, users need to purchase a tube separately. Be sure to check the product description or packaging before buying.
How to Check for Pre-applied Thermal Paste?
Checking if your CPU cooler has pre-applied thermal paste is easy:
- Check the Base of the Cooler: Check the base plate or water block of your CPU cooler. If it has a smooth, grayish, or silver layer, that’s pre-applied thermal paste.
- Manual Check: The product manual or packaging typically indicates if the cooler comes pre-coated with thermal paste.
- Company Website: Look at the manufacturer’s website to see what specifications are provided regarding thermal paste for the cooler.
If no paste is applied, it will be necessary to apply paste yourself before installing the cooler.
What If My Cooler Doesn’t Include Thermal Paste?
If your cooler does not include thermal paste, or if you’re replacing an old cooler, you’ll need to purchase thermal paste separately. Here are some tips for choosing and applying it:
Selecting Thermal Paste:
Look for reputable brands like Arctic, Noctua, or Thermal Grizzly. High-performance thermal pastes often offer better thermal conductivity and durability.
Applying Thermal Paste:
Apply a pea-sized amount of thermal paste to the center of the CPU. When the cooler is mounted, the pressure will spread the paste evenly. Avoid using too much paste, as this can lead to inefficient cooling and potential mess.
When Should You Use Thermal Paste?
Thermal paste is necessary whenever you install a CPU cooler, as it ensures proper heat transfer from the CPU to the cooler. Typically, thermal paste is applied during the process of installing a new CPU cooler or when replacing an old one.
You don’t generally need to worry about applying thermal paste when dealing with other components like graphics cards, as most GPUs come with pre-applied paste or an integrated cooling solution.
Key Terms to Know:
- CPU (Central Processing Unit): The brain of the computer, responsible for executing instructions and managing data processing.
- IHS (Integrated Heat Spreader): The metal cover on the CPU that protects it and helps distribute heat to the cooler.
- CPU Cooler: A device designed to remove heat from the CPU, typically using air or liquid to cool the processor.
- Base-Plate: The metal part of an air cooler that makes direct contact with the CPU’s IHS to transfer heat.
- Waterblock: Part of an AIO liquid cooler that connects to the IHS, transferring heat to the cooling fluid.
Why Is Thermal Paste Important?
Although the surfaces of the CPU and its cooler may seem smooth, they have microscopic imperfections that cause air gaps, reducing heat transfer. Thermal paste fills these gaps, allowing for more efficient heat transfer, which helps the CPU remain cool. A cooler CPU means better performance and less risk of throttling or overheating.
Preparation Before Applying Thermal Paste:
Before applying thermal paste, ensure that:
- The CPU is Clean: If there is any old thermal paste, clean it off using isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth.
- The Cooler is Ready: Make sure the CPU cooler is prepared for installation. If your cooler has pre-applied thermal paste, you can skip applying more.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Too Little or Too Much Paste: Apply a small, pea-sized amount. Too little may not cover the surface properly, and too much could spill over and cause issues.
- Manual Spreading: Let the pressure from the cooler’s base-plate or waterblock spread the paste. Spreading it yourself can cause air bubbles that reduce heat transfer.
- Reusing Thermal Paste: If you need to remove the cooler and reapply paste, always clean off the old paste completely before reapplying.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Applying Thermal Paste:
- Read the Instructions: Familiarize yourself with the instructions for both your CPU cooler and the thermal paste to ensure a smooth installation.
- Apply the Paste: Place a small amount (roughly the size of a grain of rice or a pea) in the center of the CPU’s IHS.
- Install the Cooler: With light, even pressure, attach the base-plate or waterblock of the cooler onto the CPU. Ensure the cooler is securely mounted but don’t apply too much force.
- Attach the Cooler: Use a diagonal pattern to screw in the cooler, making sure all screws are tightened evenly. Be careful not to push down too hard to avoid damaging the CPU or motherboard.
- Check Your Work: Ensure there’s no excess thermal paste spilling over the CPU or motherboard. If there is, clean it off and reapply the paste.
How Often Should You Replace Thermal Paste?
In general, thermal paste should be replaced every few years, depending on the thermal paste’s quality and your system’s usage. If you remove your cooler for any reason, it’s a good idea to reapply fresh thermal paste.
Additionally, if your CPU temperatures start rising unexpectedly, it might be time to check and replace the thermal paste.
FAQs:
Can I use a CPU cooler without thermal paste?
Using a CPU cooler without thermal paste is strongly discouraged. Thermal paste is the critical component for effective heat transfer from the CPU to the heatsink, filling in microscopic gaps, thus assuring proper cooling. Overheating of your CPU can result from running a CPU without thermal paste and even damage your CPU or motherboard.
Is it OK to run a CPU without a cooler?
Running a CPU without a cooler can cause serious damage. Without cooling, the processor will quickly overheat, risking permanent damage to the CPU or motherboard.
Does thermal paste expire?
Yes, thermal paste has a shelf life. The organic solvent within the paste evaporates with time and causes it to dry up, crack, and eventually lose its function. It is also possible for it to occur within the tube and after it is applied to the CPU but becomes more apparent when used.
How long can a CPU run without thermal paste?
While a CPU might work for a short period without thermal paste, it is highly inefficient and likely to get damaged due to heat buildup. It is recommended to replace thermal paste regularly, typically every 2 years for CPUs and 5-8 years for GPUs, depending on usage.
Do you need thermal paste to install a CPU cooler?
All CPU coolers require thermal paste, though most have it applied before shipping. To verify, examine the bottom of the cooler’s base plate or water block for thermal paste already present.
What else can I use as a substitute for thermal paste?
In emergencies, hair wax or toothpaste has been used, but they are not the best alternatives and should be considered a last resort. The substitutes may cool for some time but tend to dry out or crack, thus making heat transfer inefficient. It is best to use the proper thermal paste for efficient cooling.
Conclusion:
Every CPU cooler requires thermal paste to function effectively, but many come with it pre-applied, making installation quick and straightforward. Stock coolers and many aftermarket options often include pre-applied paste, while some premium coolers provide a separate tube for manual application.
If your cooler doesn’t come with thermal paste, investing in a high-quality option is essential to ensure optimal CPU performance and longevity. By understanding your cooler’s thermal paste situation and applying it correctly, you can ensure your CPU stays cool, even under demanding workloads.
