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10 Best Thermal Pastes 2026 in the United States

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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
10.0
Chosen by1,204
Thermal Conductivity
Ease of Application

Most important from
50 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
10.0
Chosen by1,204
Thermal Conductivity
Ease of Application

Most important from
50 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

Cooler Master MasterGel Pro V2 High Thermal Conductivity Compound for CPU Coolers (9 W/mK) – Ultra-Efficient CPU/GPU Heat Dissipation with Zero Electrical Conductivity, Applicator Included

Rating
9.1
Thermal Conductivity
Longevity/Durability
Ease of Application

Most important from
1980 reviews

Thermal Conductivity
Keeps high-performance CPUs like Ryzen 9 running at low temperatures, ensuring efficient cooling under load.
Longevity/Durability
Maintains durable thermal performance over time, ideal for overclocking enthusiasts and demanding users.
Ease of Application
The included applicator makes spreading the paste straightforward and mess-free, perfect for quick setups.
Electrical Conductivity
Zero electrical conductivity eliminates any risk of short circuits, allowing worry-free application on sensitive components.

The Cooler Master MasterGel Pro V2 is a thermal paste designed to efficiently transfer heat away from your CPU or GPU, making it a solid choice for gamers and high-performance PC builders. Its thermal conductivity rating of 9 W/mK is quite high, meaning it can help keep your processors cooler compared to many standard pastes. One of its key advantages is that it has zero electrical conductivity, which means it won’t risk causing shorts or damaging sensitive motherboard or graphics card components — a common concern with cheaper thermal compounds.

Application is straightforward thanks to the included applicator, and the paste spreads smoothly without creating a mess, which is great if you want a quick and clean setup. The product is portable and comes in a small 1.5 ml tube, enough for a few applications. This paste is an upgraded version of an earlier model, promising improved heat transfer and reliable performance over time. It works well with both air and liquid cooling systems, adding to its versatility.

The small quantity might not suit users who frequently reapply thermal paste. Still, backed by Cooler Master's reputation, it represents a trustworthy option for those wanting better cooling efficiency without the risk of electrical damage.

Rating
9.1
Thermal Conductivity
Longevity/Durability
Ease of Application

Most important from
1980 reviews

Thermal Conductivity
Keeps high-performance CPUs like Ryzen 9 running at low temperatures, ensuring efficient cooling under load.
Longevity/Durability
Maintains durable thermal performance over time, ideal for overclocking enthusiasts and demanding users.
Ease of Application
The included applicator makes spreading the paste straightforward and mess-free, perfect for quick setups.
Electrical Conductivity
Zero electrical conductivity eliminates any risk of short circuits, allowing worry-free application on sensitive components.
#3

Cooler Master CryoFuze Violet High Performance Thermal Paste, Nanoparticles, CPU/GPU Conductivity W/m.k= 12.6m, Non Corrosive, Temp -50°C up to 240°C for CPU and GPU Coolers (MGY-NOSG-N07M-R1)

Rating
8.8
Thermal Conductivity
Longevity/Durability
Ease of Application

Most important from
5405 reviews

Thermal Conductivity
Significantly lowers CPU temperatures, turning dangerously high temps over 100°C into stable mid-40s during gaming sessions.
Longevity/Durability
Maintains ample leftover paste after initial use, providing value and readiness for future reapplications without waste.
Ease of Application
Comes with helpful extras like application templates that ensure even spreading and prevent mess, enhancing usability.

The Cooler Master CryoFuze Violet thermal paste is designed to help cool CPUs and GPUs by efficiently transferring heat away from the chip to the cooler. Its standout feature is a high thermal conductivity rating of 12.6 W/mK, which means it’s very effective at conducting heat and suitable even for demanding or high-performance builds. The paste uses nanoparticles that improve heat transfer, and its violet tint makes it easy to see during application. It’s also electrically non-conductive and non-moisture absorbent, reducing risks of short circuits or damage due to moisture.

Application is straightforward thanks to a balanced thickness that spreads easily and cleans up without much trouble. The paste is compatible with laptops and desktops alike, making it a versatile choice. This thermal paste represents a solid option for anyone looking to improve cooling performance with an easy-to-use, safe, and efficient compound.

Rating
8.8
Thermal Conductivity
Longevity/Durability
Ease of Application

Most important from
5405 reviews

Thermal Conductivity
Significantly lowers CPU temperatures, turning dangerously high temps over 100°C into stable mid-40s during gaming sessions.
Longevity/Durability
Maintains ample leftover paste after initial use, providing value and readiness for future reapplications without waste.
Ease of Application
Comes with helpful extras like application templates that ensure even spreading and prevent mess, enhancing usability.

Buying Guide for the Best Thermal Pastes

Choosing the right thermal paste is an important step when assembling or maintaining a computer, especially if you want to ensure good cooling and long-term reliability of your CPU or GPU. Thermal paste fills microscopic gaps between the processor and heatsink, allowing heat to transfer efficiently and preventing overheating. While most thermal pastes look similar, differences in their make-up and performance can impact your system’s temperature and stability. To choose the best one for you, focus on a few key specifications and always consider how you’ll be using your PC — whether it’s for basic office work, gaming, content creation, or heavy overclocking.
Thermal ConductivityThermal conductivity indicates how effectively the paste can transfer heat from the processor to the heatsink and is usually measured in W/mK (watts per meter-kelvin). High thermal conductivity pastes are better at moving heat away from hot components, which is crucial for demanding tasks or overclocking. Typical thermal pastes range from about 3 W/mK to over 12 W/mK. For everyday users or office computers, lower thermal conductivity (below 5 W/mK) is usually sufficient, while gamers or those who overclock should look for something in the mid to high range (5-12 W/mK or higher). Think about how hard your system will be working—if it’s just light use, you don’t need the highest conductivity.
Material TypeThermal pastes generally come in three types: metal-based, ceramic-based, and silicone-based. Metal-based pastes tend to offer the best performance but may be electrically conductive, which means they need careful application to avoid short-circuits. Ceramic and silicone-based pastes are easier and safer for beginners as they are not conductive, though they might have slightly lower performance. If you’re assembling your PC for the first time or want to minimize risk, go for ceramic or silicone types. If you’re an experienced user seeking the best cooling, a metal-based paste may be better.
Longevity/DurabilitySome thermal pastes are designed to last longer without drying out or losing effectiveness, which is referred to as longevity or durability. This is important because dried-out paste loses its thermal properties and can lead to overheating. Pastes advertised as 'long-life' or 'extended durability' typically last several years, which is great for users who want to set and forget. If you plan to upgrade or change parts often, longevity may be less critical, but for anyone seeking reliability over several years, aim for a paste known for its durability.
Ease of ApplicationThermal pastes come in varying consistencies, from thick and pasty to very runny. Some are easier to spread or apply without mess — a valuable trait for beginners. Pastes that are too thick can be hard to apply evenly, while very runny types might leak out. Many brands provide applicators or stencils to help. If you’re new to building PCs or prefer a hassle-free experience, consider a paste noted for smooth and easy application.
Electrical ConductivitySome high-performance pastes, especially those with metal components, can conduct electricity. This means, if the paste spills onto the circuit board, it could cause a short-circuit. If you aren’t confident in applying paste carefully, or if you’re working in tight spaces, a non-conductive paste is safer — it won’t risk damaging your hardware even if a bit spills.
Curing TimeCuring time is how long the paste takes to reach optimal thermal performance after application. Some pastes perform best immediately, while others require several hours or days of use to 'cure.' For most general uses, instant or short curing times are more convenient, especially if you want reliable performance right away. If you’re willing to wait for peak performance, a longer curing time isn’t a problem.

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