This category covers thermal pastes and thermal pads for CPUs, graphics cards and other components, with a focus on systems that use liquid cooling. Our range holds over 40 products, mostly from Thermal Grizzly and Alphacool, plus items from Thermaltake and Delock.
It suits anyone building a PC, replacing dried-out paste or preparing a water block for a graphics card.
How to choose thermal paste or pads
Product type. Thermal paste is meant for the CPU, where only a hair-thin gap remains between the cooler base and the heatspreader. Thermal pads fill larger or uneven gaps, such as those over a graphics card's memory chips and power stage. Some manufacturers also offer liquid metal, which needs more care to use.
Thermal conductivity. Manufacturers give it in W/(m·K). A higher value generally means better heat transfer, but the result also depends on correct application and the quality of the surfaces. Compare only products of the same type, as paste and pad figures are not directly comparable.
Electrical conductivity and materials. Most pastes are non-conductive or nearly so, which makes them safer for a first application. Liquid metal conducts electricity and can react with aluminium, so use it only on surfaces the manufacturer approves, usually copper or nickel-plated. Read the cooler or water block instructions before buying.
Pad thickness. The thickness must match the gap between the chip and the cooling plate. A pad that is too thin will not make contact, while one that is too thick presses on the chip and spoils the contact. The water block instructions for a graphics card normally state the thickness for each position.
Quantity. A pea-sized drop is enough for a CPU, so even a small syringe often lasts for several applications. Pads are cut to the size of the component, and once a block has been removed they usually need replacing. Choose a larger quantity if you swap coolers often or build several PCs.
Brands in our range
- Thermal Grizzly: a German manufacturer known for its Kryonaut thermal paste and liquid metal products, popular with PC tuning enthusiasts.
- Alphacool: a German manufacturer that specialises in custom water cooling components such as water blocks, pumps, radiators and fittings.
Also in our range: Thermaltake and Delock.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between thermal paste and a thermal pad?
Thermal paste is a viscous compound spread in a very thin layer between a processor and its cooler. A thermal pad is a soft solid sheet that fills a larger gap, for example between graphics card memory chips and the cooling plate. The size of the gap decides which one to use, so the two are generally not interchangeable.
How often should thermal paste be replaced?
There is no strict rule: replace it whenever you remove the cooler, or when temperatures start to rise for no clear reason. Many manufacturers say good pastes last several years. Over time paste can dry out and transfer heat less effectively.
Is liquid metal suitable for every cooler?
No, liquid metal suits only coolers whose contact surface is made of a material the manufacturer approves, usually copper or nickel-plated. It can react with aluminium and it conducts electricity, so a spill onto nearby parts can damage a motherboard. Ordinary thermal paste is the safer choice for beginners.
How much thermal paste should I apply to a CPU?
A pea-sized drop in the middle of the processor's heatspreader is usually enough. The pressure of the cooler spreads it evenly. Using more does not improve heat transfer, and the excess can squeeze out towards the socket.
