Best CPU Thermal Paste 10 best for Peak Cooling (2024)

Your CPU generates a lot of heat, especially during intensive tasks like gaming, video editing, or 3D rendering. The heatsink and cooler help dissipate this heat, but there’s one big problem—microscopic gaps between the CPU and heatsink trap air, which reduces heat transfer efficiency. That’s where thermal paste (also called CPU grease or thermal compound) comes in.

A good thermal paste fills these tiny air pockets, creating a better contact between the CPU and heatsink. This results in faster heat dissipation, keeping your processor cooler and more efficient.

What Happens If You Don’t Use Thermal Paste?

Some beginners skip thermal paste, thinking it’s not necessary. But without it, heat transfer between the CPU and cooler becomes inefficient, leading to higher temperatures, thermal throttling, and even CPU damage over time. So, if you want your PC to run smoothly, applying quality thermal paste is a must.

Does the Type of Thermal Paste Matter?

Yes! Not all thermal pastes are the same. Some are better for gaming PCs, while others are designed for overclocking or long-term stability. The best CPU thermal paste for gaming PCs will have high thermal conductivity, while a budget-friendly option may work fine for regular users.

What is CPU Thermal Paste & Why Does It Matter?

Now that we know thermal paste is important, let’s break down what it actually does and how it helps in CPU cooling.

What is Thermal Paste?

Thermal paste (or thermal grease) is a heat-conductive compound that improves heat transfer between the CPU and heatsink. It eliminates air gaps and ensures efficient cooling.

There are different types of thermal pastes, including:

• Silicone-based thermal compounds – Affordable and easy to apply, but not the best for extreme cooling.
• Ceramic-based thermal pastes – Non-conductive and great for general PC use.
• Carbon-based thermal pastes – Offers a balance between performance and longevity.
• Liquid metal thermal pastes – Best for overclocking but requires careful application due to electrical conductivity.

How Does Thermal Paste Work?

When you apply thermal paste on the CPU’s surface, it fills microscopic imperfections and removes air pockets that act as insulators. This allows the heat to transfer quickly from the CPU to the heatsink, preventing overheating.

Without a good thermal compound, your CPU might run hotter than it should, reducing performance and lifespan.

Common Myths About CPU Thermal Paste

Myth 1: “More Thermal Paste = Better Cooling” – Wrong! Too much thermal paste can actually trap heat instead of dissipating it. A thin, even layer is all you need.

Myth 2: “Thermal Paste Lasts Forever” – Nope. Over time, thermal paste dries out, reducing its effectiveness. That’s why you should replace it every 1–3 years depending on your usage.

Myth 3: “All Thermal Pastes Are the Same” – Different pastes have different thermal conductivity ratings. A cheap paste may not provide the same cooling benefits as a high-performance thermal compound.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best CPU Thermal Paste

Picking the right thermal paste isn’t as simple as grabbing the first one you see. Different pastes have different thermal conductivity levels, lifespans, and application methods. Here’s what you need to consider:

1. Thermal Conductivity – The Most Important Factor

Thermal conductivity, measured in W/mK (watts per meter-kelvin), determines how well the paste transfers heat from your CPU to the heatsink. A higher W/mK rating means better heat dissipation and lower CPU temperatures.

• Low-end pastes (2-5 W/mK) – Basic cooling, fine for casual users.
• Mid-range pastes (6-10 W/mK) – Good for gaming and daily use.
• High-performance pastes (11+ W/mK) – Best for overclocking and high-end CPUs.

If you’re using a powerful processor like an AMD Ryzen 9 or an Intel Core i9, you’ll want a paste with at least 10 W/mK or higher for optimal cooling.

2. Longevity & Durability – How Long Does It Last?

Not all thermal pastes have the same lifespan. Some last for years, while others dry out within months. Look for a thermal compound that remains effective for 2-5 years to avoid frequent reapplications.

• Silicone-based and ceramic-based pastes – Last around 2-3 years before drying out.
• Carbon-based thermal pastes – Can last up to 5 years with stable performance.
• Liquid metal thermal pastes – Provide exceptional cooling, but require frequent maintenance (every 1-2 years).

For long-term reliability, carbon-based or high-quality ceramic pastes are great choices.

3. Ease of Application – Smooth or Messy?

Some pastes are thicker, making them hard to spread, while others are thin and easy to apply. If you’re a beginner, go for a non-conductive, easy-to-apply paste to avoid mistakes.

• Thicker pastes – Stay in place but require careful spreading.
• Liquid metal pastes – Very effective but hard to apply and electrically conductive, which can damage components if spilled.

If you don’t want the hassle, Arctic MX-6 or Noctua NT-H2 are great beginner-friendly options.

4. Non-Conductive vs. Liquid Metal – Which One is Better?

• Non-Conductive Pastes (ceramic, silicone, carbon-based) – Safe, easy to apply, and ideal for everyday users.
• Liquid Metal Pastes – Offer superior thermal performance, perfect for overclockers, but can be risky since they conduct electricity.

Unless you’re into extreme overclocking, a high-performance non-conductive paste will be more than enough.

Top 10 Best CPU Thermal Pastes in 2024 (Reviewed & Compared)

Now that you know what to look for, here are the best thermal pastes for different needs:

1. Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut – Best for Overclocking

Pros:

High thermal conductivity (12.5 W/mK)
Long-lasting performance
Great for gaming and overclocking

Cons:

Slightly expensive

Why choose it? If you’re looking for the best thermal paste for gaming PCs or overclocking, this one’s a winner.

2. Arctic MX-6 – Best Overall Thermal Paste

Pros:

Easy to apply
Non-conductive and safe
Lasts up to 5 years

Cons:

Slightly lower thermal conductivity than liquid metal

Why choose it? It’s an all-rounder—great for gamers, professionals, and casual users.

3. Noctua NT-H2 – Best Long-Lasting Paste

Pros:

Long lifespan (up to 5 years)
Excellent cooling performance
Easy to clean and reapply

Cons:

A bit pricey

Why choose it? If you want a low-maintenance, high-performance paste, this is a solid pick.

4. Thermal Grizzly Conductonaut – Best Liquid Metal Thermal Paste

Pros:

Ultra-high thermal conductivity (73 W/mK)
Perfect for extreme cooling setups

Cons:

Hard to apply
Conductive, so it can damage components if not applied properly

Why choose it? If you need maximum cooling for extreme overclocking, this is the best liquid metal thermal paste you can get.

5. Corsair XTM50 – Best Budget-Friendly Option

Pros:

Affordable and reliable
Non-conductive and beginner-friendly

Cons:

Not as high-performance as premium pastes

Why choose it? If you need a good budget thermal paste for everyday use, this one’s great.

6. Cooler Master MasterGel Pro – Best for Gaming PCs

Pros:

Great thermal performance for gaming CPUs
Easy to spread

Cons:

Dries out faster than some competitors

Why choose it? Best for gaming CPUs that run hot during extended play sessions.

7. Gelid GC-Extreme – Best for Workstations

Pros:

Stable temperatures under heavy workloads
Long-lasting performance

Cons:

A bit tricky to spread evenly

Why choose it? If you use your PC for video editing, 3D rendering, or AI workloads, this is a great pick.

8. Prolimatech PK-3 Nano Aluminum – Best for Beginners

Pros:

Non-conductive and safe
Easy to apply

Cons:

Not the best for extreme cooling

Why choose it? Perfect if you're a beginner and want a hassle-free thermal paste.

9. EVGA Frostbite 2 – Best for High-End Builds

Pros:

High thermal conductivity
Works well with both air and liquid cooling

Cons:

Can be a bit tricky to apply

Why choose it? If you have a high-end gaming PC or workstation, this paste keeps temperatures low under heavy workloads.

10. SYY-157 – Best for Value and Performance

Pros:

High thermal conductivity for its price
Long-lasting and non-conductive

Cons:

Slightly thicker consistency

Why choose it? If you want a solid budget option that still delivers great cooling, SYY-157 is a strong choice.

i am also covered AMD Processor with NVIDIA GPU

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Thermal Paste Correctly

Applying thermal paste may seem intimidating, but if you follow these simple steps, you’ll do it like a pro.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Before you start, make sure you have:
A high-quality thermal paste (like Arctic MX-6, Noctua NT-H2, or Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut)
A clean microfiber cloth or coffee filter
Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher) to remove old paste
A plastic spreader or card (optional)
Your CPU cooler (air or liquid cooling system)

Step 2: Clean the CPU Surface

If you’re reapplying thermal paste, you first need to remove the old dried-out paste from the CPU and cooler.

1. Turn off your PC and unplug it.
2. Remove the CPU cooler carefully.
3. Use a microfiber cloth and isopropyl alcohol to wipe off the old paste.
4. Let it dry completely before applying new paste.

Pro Tip: Never use paper towels or tissues—they can leave behind fibers that interfere with heat transfer.

Step 3: Apply the Right Amount of Thermal Paste

There are different methods for applying thermal paste, but the dot method is the easiest and most effective.

• Dot Method (Recommended) – Place a pea-sized drop of thermal paste in the center of the CPU. When the heatsink is installed, the paste spreads evenly.
• Line Method – A thin line of paste down the center works well for longer CPU dies, like some AMD processors.
• X Method – Some people use an "X" shape to ensure full coverage, but it can result in excess paste.

Avoid spreading the paste manually! The pressure from the cooler will do it for you.

Step 4: Attach the CPU Cooler

1. Carefully lower the heatsink onto the CPU.
2. Press it down evenly to let the paste spread.
3. Tighten the cooler’s screws in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.

Step 5: Check the Temperatures

Once everything is installed, boot up your PC and monitor CPU temperatures using software like:

• HWMonitor
• Core Temp
• MSI Afterburner

If your temperatures are still high, you might need to reapply the paste or check if the cooler is seated properly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying Thermal Paste

Even experienced PC builders sometimes mess up thermal paste application. Here are the most common mistakes you should avoid:

1. Using Too Much Thermal Paste

Many beginners think more paste = better cooling. But applying too much paste can cause:

• Excess paste spilling over the CPU edges
• Reduced heat transfer efficiency
• A mess that’s hard to clean up

Fix: Use a pea-sized amount—that’s all you need!

2. Using Too Little Thermal Paste

If you don’t use enough, the CPU and heatsink won’t make full contact, leading to hotspots and overheating.

Fix: Always ensure the paste fully covers the CPU when the cooler is mounted.

3. Reusing Old Thermal Paste

Thermal paste dries out over time and loses its effectiveness. If you’re upgrading or reinstalling a cooler, always clean off the old paste and apply a fresh layer.

Fix: Never reuse old paste! Always clean and apply a new layer.

4. Not Cleaning the CPU Before Applying Paste

Dust, oil, or leftover thermal paste can affect heat transfer. If you apply new paste on top of old paste, it won’t spread evenly, causing temperature issues.

Fix: Use isopropyl alcohol (90%+) and a microfiber cloth to wipe down the CPU before applying new paste.

5. Using the Wrong Type of Thermal Paste

Not all thermal pastes are the same! Liquid metal thermal pastes (like Thermal Grizzly Conductonaut) offer better cooling, but they are electrically conductive, meaning they can short-circuit your motherboard if spilled.

Fix: Only use liquid metal if you know what you’re doing! For most users, carbon-based or ceramic-based pastes are safer and easier to apply.

6. Not Tightening the Cooler Properly

If the CPU cooler isn’t secured evenly, the thermal paste won’t spread properly, leading to poor heat transfer.

Fix: Tighten the screws in a crisscross pattern for even pressure.

How Often Should You Replace Thermal Paste?

Thermal paste doesn’t have an exact expiration date, but general guidelines can help you figure out when it’s time for a reapplication.

1. Every 2 to 3 Years (For Regular Users)

If you have a casual gaming PC or a standard work computer, you should reapply thermal paste every 2 to 3 years. Over time, the paste dries out and loses efficiency, making your CPU run hotter.

Signs it’s time for a new application:
Higher idle and load temperatures than usual
Fan running louder due to increased cooling demand
PC shutting down due to overheating

2. Once a Year (For Overclockers and High-Performance PCs)

If you overclock your CPU, you should replace thermal paste once a year. Overclocking increases heat and stress on the paste, causing it to break down faster.

Pro Tip: High-performance pastes like Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut or Noctua NT-H2 handle heat well but still degrade over time.

3. Every 6 to 12 Months (For Liquid Metal Paste Users)

If you’re using liquid metal thermal paste (like Thermal Grizzly Conductonaut), you’ll need to replace it more often. Liquid metal conducts heat better than standard pastes, but it also spreads and wears out faster.

Warning: Liquid metal can corrode aluminum heatsinks. If you’re using it, make sure your cooler has a nickel-plated copper base.

4. Immediately (If You Remove the Cooler)

Anytime you remove your CPU cooler, you must reapply thermal paste. Once the cooler is lifted, the paste loses its even spread, creating air pockets that hurt heat transfer.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Thermal Paste

You don’t always need to wait for 2 years to reapply paste. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time for fresh thermal paste.

1. CPU Temperatures Are Higher Than Usual

If your CPU used to run at 40°C idle and now sits at 55°C, your paste might be drying out. Sudden temperature spikes? That’s another sign.

Check your temps using:
HWMonitor
Core Temp
MSI Afterburner

2. Your PC Fans Are Louder Than Before

If your CPU cooler fans are running at full speed, even when your PC isn’t doing much, the thermal paste might not be transferring heat efficiently anymore.

3. Your PC Is Throttling or Shutting Down

When CPUs get too hot, they throttle performance or even shut down to protect themselves. If your PC suddenly freezes, slows down, or crashes, check your thermal paste.

4. You Can See Dried or Cracked Thermal Paste

If you remove your CPU cooler and see dry, crusty, or hardened paste, it’s no longer doing its job. Thermal paste should stay soft and spreadable—if it’s dry, replace it.

Types of Thermal Paste and Which One You Should Use

Not all thermal pastes work the same way. Some offer better thermal conductivity, while others last longer or require extra care when applying. Here are the main types:

1. Silicone-Based Thermal Paste (Budget-Friendly, But Not the Best)

Best for: Pre-applied stock coolers, temporary use
Thermal Conductivity: Low (2-5 W/mK)
Lifespan: 1-2 years

Silicone-based pastes are commonly found in pre-applied stock coolers (like Intel and AMD’s default coolers). They are cheap and better than nothing, but they dry out quickly and don’t provide great cooling performance.

Verdict:

Not recommended unless you’re on an extremely tight budget or using a low-power CPU.

2. Carbon-Based Thermal Paste (Best for Most Users)

Best for: Gaming PCs, workstations, general use
Thermal Conductivity: Medium (5-12 W/mK)
Lifespan: 3-5 years

Carbon-based pastes (like Arctic MX-6, Noctua NT-H2, or Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut) offer a great balance of performance, longevity, and ease of use. They are non-conductive, so even if you accidentally spill some, it won’t damage your motherboard.

Verdict:

The best all-around option for most PC users.

3. Metal-Based Thermal Paste (Higher Performance, But Risky)

Best for: High-end gaming PCs, overclocked CPUs
Thermal Conductivity: High (10-15 W/mK)
Lifespan: 3-4 years

Metal-based pastes (like Arctic Silver 5) contain tiny metal particles, making them better at conducting heat than standard carbon-based pastes. However, they are electrically conductive, so if you spill even a tiny drop on your motherboard, you risk short-circuiting your PC.

Verdict:

Great for enthusiasts and overclockers, but handle with care!

4. Liquid Metal Thermal Paste (Extreme Performance, But Not for Beginners!)

Best for: Hardcore overclockers, gaming laptops, delidding CPUs
Thermal Conductivity: Ultra-high (73+ W/mK)
Lifespan: 1-2 years (requires maintenance)

Liquid metal thermal pastes (like Thermal Grizzly Conductonaut) are the best for heat transfer, often lowering temperatures by 5-10°C compared to traditional pastes. But they come with big risks:

• Electrically conductive – If spilled, it can kill your motherboard.
• Corrodes aluminum heatsinks – Only use with copper or nickel-plated coolers.
• Requires maintenance – It dries out faster than regular pastes.

Verdict:

Only use if you know what you’re doing! Best for hardcore overclocking and delidding CPUs.

5. Ceramic-Based Thermal Paste (Safe and Long-Lasting, But Not the Best for Performance)

Best for: Beginners, long-term builds, prebuilt PCs
Thermal Conductivity: Medium (5-8 W/mK)
Lifespan: 5+ years

Ceramic-based thermal pastes are easy to apply, long-lasting, and safe to use. They’re not electrically conductive, making them a good option for beginners. However, they don’t perform as well as carbon or metal-based pastes.

Verdict:

A safe choice, but not the best for extreme cooling needs.

Which Thermal Paste Should You Choose?

Best Overall (For Most Users): Carbon-Based (Arctic MX-6, Noctua NT-H2)
Best for Overclocking: Metal-Based (Arctic Silver 5)
Best for Extreme Cooling: Liquid Metal (Thermal Grizzly Conductonaut)
Best Budget Option: Ceramic-Based (Cooler Master HTK-002)

If you want a hassle-free, high-performance option, go with a carbon-based thermal paste like Arctic MX-6. It’s safe, long-lasting, and provides great cooling without the risks of liquid metal.