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10 Best Thermal Pastes 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut Extreme - Extremely High Performance Thermal Paste - for Maximum Thermal Conductivity While Overclocking CPU/GPU/PS4/PS5/Xbox (3 Pack of 2 Gram)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,443
Thermal Conductivity
Ease of Application

Most important from
25 reviews

Thermal Conductivity
Immediate temperature drop by 5-7°C was observed on an old Vega 64 GPU after applying Kryonaut Extreme, solidifying its status as a go-to thermal paste.
Ease of Application
Despite its tricky application, the spreader tip works well, and the performance cannot be denied.

The Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut Extreme thermal paste stands out for its exceptional thermal conductivity at 14.2 W/(m·K), making it a top choice for gamers and overclocking enthusiasts who demand peak performance from their CPUs and GPUs. This high thermal transfer rate ensures that heat is effectively dissipated, which is crucial during intensive gaming or demanding applications. Users can expect impressive results, including lower operating temperatures and a quieter system due to reduced fan speeds.

In terms of application, Kryonaut is user-friendly. It comes with a syringe and an applicator designed for precise distribution, making it easier even for those who might not be familiar with thermal paste application. Additionally, the paste is stable at high temperatures, remaining effective in environments up to 80 degrees Celsius, which ensures longevity and consistent performance over time.

It's important to note that while Kryonaut is indeed high-performing, it may be overkill for casual users who do not overclock their systems or run resource-intensive applications. For everyday computers, there are other thermal pastes that might suffice and come at a lower price point. Furthermore, with only 2 grams per syringe, it is designed for multiple applications (up to 12 CPUs), but this might not be enough for larger or more complex setups, potentially requiring more frequent purchases for heavy users. Kryonaut Extreme is an excellent choice for those who prioritize thermal performance and are looking to enhance their system's cooling efficiency, but casual users might find it more than they need.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,443
Thermal Conductivity
Ease of Application

Most important from
25 reviews

Thermal Conductivity
Immediate temperature drop by 5-7°C was observed on an old Vega 64 GPU after applying Kryonaut Extreme, solidifying its status as a go-to thermal paste.
Ease of Application
Despite its tricky application, the spreader tip works well, and the performance cannot be denied.
#2

Noctua NT-H2 3.5g AM5 Edition, Pro-Grade Thermal Compound with Thermal Paste Guard for AMD AM5 CPUs incl. 3 Cleaning Wipes (3.5g)

Rating
9.8
Thermal Conductivity
Longevity and Drying Time
Ease of Application

Most important from
528 reviews

Thermal Conductivity
Provides great temperatures on CPUs at full load, comparable to top performers like Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut and Arctic MX-6.
Longevity and Drying Time
The longevity of the NT-H2 is impressive; a little goes a long way, making the 3.5g tube last for many builds.
Ease of Application
The NT-H2 is easy to apply, especially with the Thermal Paste Guard, making it user-friendly.

The Noctua NT-H2 3.5g AM5 Edition is a high-quality thermal compound designed specifically for AMD AM5 CPUs. This product excels in thermal conductivity, meaning it effectively transfers heat from your CPU to the heatsink, which could help in maintaining optimal operating temperatures for your computer. Its second-generation formulation enhances the already award-winning NT-H1, ensuring improved performance.

The inclusion of a thermal paste guard is a thoughtful feature for users, as it helps prevent paste build-up in the cut-outs of the heatspreader, which can be a common issue with some thermal pastes. This adds to the ease of use, making application straightforward without the need for spreading the paste manually. The product also comes with three cleaning wipes, making it convenient to clean off any residue during reapplications.

One of the significant strengths of the Noctua NT-H2 is its longevity and stability, with a recommended usage time on the CPU of up to 5 years and a storage time of up to 3 years. This means you won't need to frequently reapply it, saving both time and effort. However, while it performs exceptionally well in thermal transfer, it may be on the pricier side compared to some other options available. Additionally, the 3.5g pack size might be a bit limiting for extensive multiple applications on larger CPUs like TR4, though it should suffice for smaller ones. This product is particularly well-suited for those using AMD AM5 CPUs and seeking reliable, long-term thermal management without the hassle of frequent reapplications.

Rating
9.8
Thermal Conductivity
Longevity and Drying Time
Ease of Application

Most important from
528 reviews

Thermal Conductivity
Provides great temperatures on CPUs at full load, comparable to top performers like Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut and Arctic MX-6.
Longevity and Drying Time
The longevity of the NT-H2 is impressive; a little goes a long way, making the 3.5g tube last for many builds.
Ease of Application
The NT-H2 is easy to apply, especially with the Thermal Paste Guard, making it user-friendly.
#3

Thermal Grizzly - Kryonaut - 1 Gram - Extremly High Performance Thermal Paste - for Demanding Applications and Overclocking CPU/GPU/PS4/PS5/Xbox

Rating
9.6
Thermal Conductivity
Viscosity
Ease of Application

Most important from
1826 reviews

Thermal Conductivity
Not too runny and excellent thermal conductivity. Expensive but worth it.
Viscosity
The consistency allows for easy and equal spreading, outperforming most stock pastes included with coolers.
Ease of Application
Well packaged with perfect instructions and application tools, ideal for both novice and expert installers.

Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut is a high-performance thermal paste that excels in thermal conductivity, boasting an impressive 12.5W rating. This makes it ideal for demanding applications such as overclocking and industrial cooling systems. Its ease of application is a notable strength, thanks to the specially designed syringe and spatula, which ensures precise and comfortable paste distribution on CPUs, GPUs, and gaming consoles like PS4, PS5, and Xbox.

Another significant advantage is its longevity; the paste does not dry out even at high temperatures (up to 80°C), ensuring sustained performance over time. Users can expect a noticeable reduction in device temperatures right from the first use, enhancing operational comfort and efficiency. Kryonaut is also widely recognized as a market leader, highly rated by customers and praised for its quality standards. It has a high customer review rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, indicating strong user satisfaction.

One potential drawback is its partial compatibility with some heat sinks, which may require users to check their specific hardware before purchase. Additionally, being a high-performance paste, it may be overkill for standard computing needs, making it more suited for enthusiasts and professionals who require top-tier cooling solutions.

Rating
9.6
Thermal Conductivity
Viscosity
Ease of Application

Most important from
1826 reviews

Thermal Conductivity
Not too runny and excellent thermal conductivity. Expensive but worth it.
Viscosity
The consistency allows for easy and equal spreading, outperforming most stock pastes included with coolers.
Ease of Application
Well packaged with perfect instructions and application tools, ideal for both novice and expert installers.

Buying Guide for the Best Thermal Pastes

Choosing the right thermal paste is crucial for maintaining optimal temperatures for your computer's CPU or GPU. Thermal paste helps to fill microscopic gaps between the processor and the heatsink, ensuring efficient heat transfer. The right thermal paste can improve performance and longevity of your components. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a thermal paste.
Thermal ConductivityThermal conductivity measures how well the thermal paste can transfer heat from the CPU or GPU to the heatsink. It is usually measured in watts per meter-kelvin (W/mK). Higher thermal conductivity values indicate better heat transfer capabilities. For high-performance systems, such as gaming PCs or workstations, look for thermal pastes with higher thermal conductivity (above 8 W/mK). For regular home or office computers, a moderate thermal conductivity (around 5-8 W/mK) is usually sufficient.
ViscosityViscosity refers to the thickness and flow characteristics of the thermal paste. It affects how easy the paste is to apply and how well it spreads over the surface. Low viscosity pastes are easier to apply and spread evenly, making them suitable for beginners. High viscosity pastes may require more skill to apply but can provide better coverage and stability over time. If you are new to applying thermal paste, opt for a lower viscosity product. If you have experience and want maximum performance, a higher viscosity paste might be better.
Electrical ConductivityElectrical conductivity indicates whether the thermal paste can conduct electricity. Non-conductive thermal pastes are safer to use as they prevent the risk of short circuits if the paste accidentally comes into contact with electrical components. Conductive pastes can offer better thermal performance but require careful application to avoid electrical issues. For most users, non-conductive thermal pastes are recommended for safety and ease of use.
LongevityLongevity refers to how long the thermal paste remains effective before it needs to be reapplied. Some thermal pastes can dry out or degrade over time, reducing their effectiveness. High-quality thermal pastes can last several years without needing replacement. If you prefer minimal maintenance, look for thermal pastes with longer longevity. For users who frequently upgrade or maintain their systems, longevity might be less critical.
Ease of ApplicationEase of application is important, especially for beginners. Some thermal pastes come with applicators or are pre-applied on pads, making the process simpler. Others may require careful spreading with a tool. If you are new to applying thermal paste, look for products that offer easy application methods. Experienced users might prefer traditional pastes that allow for more precise application.

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