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When to Replace Thermal Paste
Thermal paste degrades over 3-5 years. Replacing it can lower CPU temperatures by 5-15°C, reducing thermal throttling and extending component life. Signs you need new paste: higher-than-normal temperatures, increased fan noise, or thermal throttling during light workloads.
Top Thermal Paste Picks
Best overall: Noctua NT-H2 — excellent performance, easy application, non-conductive. Premium: Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut — top benchmark performer, favourite of overclockers. Budget: Arctic MX-6 — 90% of premium performance at half the price.
| Paste | Best For | Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Noctua NT-H2 | General use, easy apply | Check Price |
| Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut | Overclocking, enthusiast | Check Price |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace thermal paste?
Every 3-5 years, or sooner if temperatures have increased noticeably.
Recommended Desktop Upgrades (RAM & SSD)
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How we verify this guide
We cross-reference compatibility figures against manufacturer specifications where available, official service manuals, and the standards that govern fit — memory type and speed (DDR4 / DDR5 / LPDDR5), maximum supported capacity and slot count, SSD form factor and interface (M.2 2280, NVMe PCIe vs SATA, keying), and charger wattage and connector (USB-C Power Delivery, GaN). We’re explicit about soldered or non-upgradeable parts, prioritise primary sources over retailer listings, and re-verify the data on a regular cycle. More on our method →
