Replacing a motherboard and CPU can reset the thermal paste application.
Replacing a motherboard and CPU can reset the thermal paste application.
Hello everyone, I recently replaced my CPU a few months ago and installed the master cooler fan with pre-applied thermal paste. I’m planning to swap out my motherboard soon because it’s limiting my RAM. I’m considering taking the CPU and cooler off the old board and installing them on the new one. I want to know if I should reapply thermal paste after removing everything, or if I can just move them straight in. Thanks for your guidance!
Sure, I'll replace the paste with a different version. Let me know if you'd like any adjustments!
When using the same cooler and CPU, you can often skip replacement if you have alternatives, but ensure you apply a thin layer of extra paste for complete protection. If the thermal paste has been there for a year or more, it's advisable to replace it. Most pre-applied pastes tend to dry out quickly.
When OP swaps in the motherboard, the CPU and cooler still need to be apart.
You don't need to do anything special. I reinstalled my cooler without additional paste, and there hasn't been any noticeable change.
Looking closely at the temperatures, I'm more concerned about the delivery wait than the thermal paste choice. For an air cooler, a high-quality thermal paste is essential—consider silicone-based or graphite options for optimal performance.
I use Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut but it's expensive and I just got a tiny syringe with 1 gram. Arctic MX-4 will do it's job well as will Noctua NT-H1. The best (not counting liquid metal) is Kryonaut I believe but I don't think there is much difference between the ones I mentioned. Noticable difference anyway. Thermal conductivity MX-4 8,5 W/mK NT-H1 8,5 W/mK Kryonaut 12 W/mK Cooler Master Master Gel Maker Nano ...puuh too long name... 11 W/mK Will you notice the difference between these? I think not.