How to apply thermal paste to the CPU without making a mess
You wouldn't think applying thermal paste to a processor to be a difficult task. Layer the paste the CPU, not hard. Well, applying thermal paste can be easy, provided that you use the right amount. Tool little or too much paste can impede heat transfer.
Let's apply thermal to your new processor without creating an unnecessary mess.
First, you need to cleanse the area of debris.
Clean your workspace before engaging in any hardware installation, explicitly applying thermal paste to a processor. Next, use compressed air to blow away loose debris. After which, use a dry paper towel or microfiber cloth along with isopropyl alcohol to wipe down the surface. Alcohol is recommended because the solvent dries immediately upon application.
Do not reuse the same thermal paste applied to the CPU if your task includes replacing old coolers with new ones. Instead, use isopropyl alcohol to clean the old paste off of the processor.
Stressing the importance of a clean surface
Improperly cleaning your workspace and processor of oils and any form of residue can negatively affect heat dissipation. Your work area should be pristine clean. We don't want any specs of dust on the thermal paste.
Apply the thermal paste
In my own experience, I usually apply two pea size drops of thermal paste to the processor. However, some Thermal Paste on the market comes with a small plastic putty knife, making it easy to spread thin layers of paste on the processor, which I think is a brilliant method. You currently have Thermal Paste come-in kits along with the plastic putty knife.
Remember, apply one to two pea size drops of paste. Too much paste can act as an insulator, thus causing the processor to overheat. At worst, irreparable damage to components will ensue as a result of overheating.
PLEASE DON’T DO THIS!!!!!
As long as a thin layer of thermal paste is on the processor, you should have proper heat dissipation. The purpose of thermal paste is to fill in tiny gaps between the processor and cooling fan backplate.
Quality is a must
Yes, you read correctly; choosing a quality thermal paste is a must. Sure there are plenty of cheap options on the market, but the trade-off is the paste on the processor won't last long, and yes, the processor will end up overheating.
The benefits of a quality thermal paste include reduced and or zero curing time, faster processor speeds, and longer-lasting components. Here are some of my recommendations, Artic MX-5, Cooler MasterGel Pro v2, and Gelid GC Extreme.
