The use of thermal pads with pre-applied thermal paste on a water cooler is a topic of debate among enthusiasts. While some argue that thermal paste is always better than a pad, others suggest that pads can be used effectively in certain situations. In the context of a pre-pasted water cooler, the quality of the pre-applied thermal paste can vary, and it may be necessary to replace it with high-quality thermal paste in certain situations.
Thermal Paste vs. Thermal Pads
Thermal Paste:
– High-quality thermal paste can provide better cooling performance than thermal pads when used on flat surfaces.
– Thermal paste is a highly conductive material that fills in microscopic gaps between the CPU/GPU and the heatsink, improving heat transfer.
– The performance of thermal paste can vary greatly depending on the quality and application method.
Thermal Pads:
– Thermal pads are typically worse performing than paste when used on the GPU die itself.
– However, they are commonly used on memory and VRM components, which are not as sensitive to heat and have higher operating temperatures.
– Thermal pads are a solid, pre-cut material that can be easily applied and provide a consistent thickness.
– Thermal pads come in different materials, such as silicone, graphite, or metal-based, each with their own thermal and electrical properties.
Pre-Pasted Water Cooler Considerations
When considering the use of thermal pads with a pre-pasted water cooler, it is important to evaluate the quality of the pre-applied thermal paste:
- If the pre-applied paste is of high quality and the surfaces are flat, it may provide adequate cooling performance.
- However, if the pre-applied paste is of poor quality or the surfaces are not flat, it may be beneficial to replace it with high-quality thermal paste.
- The quality of the pre-applied thermal paste can vary between different water cooler manufacturers and models.
DIY Approach with Thermal Pads
When considering a DIY approach to using thermal pads with a pre-pasted water cooler, there are a few key factors to consider:
Thermal Pad Selection:
– Choose the right thickness and material for the specific application.
– Conductive pads can provide high heat transfer capability but require careful handling to avoid short circuits.
– Non-conductive pads are less risky but may provide lower heat transfer capability.
Surface Preparation:
– If the pre-applied paste is of poor quality or the surfaces are not flat, it may be necessary to remove the pre-applied paste and apply high-quality thermal paste instead.
– Ensure the surfaces are clean and free of any debris or residue before applying the thermal pads or paste.
Application Technique:
– Apply the thermal pads or paste in a thin, even layer, avoiding air bubbles or uneven coverage.
– Use the correct amount of thermal paste or pad thickness to ensure optimal heat transfer.
– Properly secure the water cooler to the CPU/GPU to ensure good contact and heat transfer.
By carefully considering the quality of the pre-applied thermal paste, selecting the appropriate thermal pads, and following proper application techniques, you can effectively use thermal pads with a pre-pasted water cooler in a DIY setup.
References:
- Thermal paste ontop the thermal pads?? – Overclock.net
- Should I use the thermal paste that comes with an AIO cooler? – Tom’s Hardware
- Is using thermal pads instead of thermal paste on GPU waterblocks okay? – Reddit
- Is thermal compound included in the AIO watercoolers any good? – Tom’s Hardware
- Pre-applied Thermal Paste vs Aftermarket on your Stock CPU Cooler – YouTube