Fan & thermal paste

Thermal paste

Thermal paste is a thermally conductive paste that is applied to the surface of processors and other heat-generating components before the heat sink is mounted. Its main purpose is to fill the air gaps between the heat sink and the component, as air is a poor conductor of heat. This ensures more efficient heat transfer from the component to the heat sink.

Thermally conductive pads or thermal pads

Thermal pads are an alternative to thermal paste and consist of a thermally conductive material that is placed between the heat sink and the component to be cooled. They are easier to use as they do not need to be distributed and are often reusable. However, they are generally not quite as effective as thermal paste when it comes to maximising heat transfer.

What do you need them for?

Thermal paste and thermal pads are essential for maintaining the optimum operating temperature of electronic components. Effective heat dissipation prevents overheating, increases the service life of components, and ensures more stable performance.

What should you consider when buying?

• Thermal conductivity: Higher values mean better heat transfer.

• Application: Thermal paste requires careful application and is designed for maximum performance, while pads are easier to handle.

• Composition: There are non-conductive and electrically conductive pastes. Non-conductive pastes are safer to handle as they do not cause short circuits when they go beyond the target surface.

• Drying time and shelf life: Some pastes can dry out or lose their conductivity over time.

Which thermal paste is the right one?

Choosing the right thermal paste depends on your specific requirements:

• For enthusiasts and overclockers looking for maximum performance high-performance pastes with high thermal conductivity are recommended.

• For everyday applications and lower cooling requirements, a standard paste or thermal pad may be perfectly adequate.

• Pay attention to the composition and choose a paste that meets your safety and performance requirements.

Ultimately, the best thermal paste is the one that meets your specific needs and offers an optimal balance between performance, ease of use and price.

For detailed instructions on how to change thermal paste, we invite you to visit our blog. There we have provided a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to properly apply and change thermal paste to optimise the cooling performance of your devices.