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Best Thermal Paste of 2026

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Tom Law

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Thermal paste is a type of compound used to improve the heat transfer between a computer's central processing unit (CPU) or graphics processing unit (GPU) and its heat sink or fan. By filling in the microscopic gaps between the two surfaces, thermal paste helps to stabilise and lower the temperature of the CPU or GPU, which can improve performance and prevent damage from overheating. While thermal paste typically comes pre-applied to most CPUs and GPUs, some enthusiasts prefer to use higher-quality or more specialised thermal pastes to achieve better results.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Thermal Paste

#TOP 1

ARCTIC MX-4 Thermal Paste for Processors

ARCTIC MX-4 Thermal Paste for Processors Cover

ARCTIC MX-4 (4 g) - Premium Performance Thermal Paste for all processors (CPU, GPU - PC, PS4, XBOX), very high thermal conductivity, long durability, safe application, non-conductive, non-capacitive

The ARCTIC MX-4 Paste is a high-quality thermal paste designed for efficient heat dissipation from CPUs and GPUs. Its carbon microparticle composition ensures excellent thermal conductivity, helping to keep your components cool and performing optimally. You will appreciate its safe application since it is metal-free and non-electrically conductive, reducing the risk of short circuits. Additionally, the paste's ideal consistency makes it easy to apply, even if you are a beginner, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • High thermal conductivity
  • Safe, non-conductive formula
  • Easy to apply
  • Proven quality
#TOP 2

ARCTIC MX-6 Thermal Paste for CPUs and GPUs

ARCTIC MX-6 Thermal Paste for CPUs and GPUs Cover

ARCTIC MX-6 (4 g) - Ultimate Performance Thermal Paste for CPU, consoles, graphics cards, laptops, very high thermal conductivity, long durability, non-conductive, non-capacitive

The ARCTIC MX-6 offers 20% better performance compared to its predecessor, the MX-4, thanks to its improved thermal conductivity. This means your CPU or graphics card can run cooler and more efficiently, enhancing overall system performance. Its non-conductive and non-capacitive properties ensure that you can apply it without the worry of short circuits. Additionally, the versatile application makes it suitable for a range of devices, including laptops and consoles, allowing for an easy and effective cooling solution.

9.7
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Improved thermal conductivity
  • Non-conductive and safe
  • Versatile for various devices
  • Easy to apply
#TOP 3

ARCTIC MX-4 Thermal Paste with Spatula

  • ARCTIC
  • MX-4
  • grey
  • 4 g (incl. Spatula)
ARCTIC MX-4 Thermal Paste with Spatula Cover

ARCTIC MX-4 (incl. Spatula, 4 g) - Premium Performance Thermal Paste for all processors (CPU, GPU - PC, PS4, XBOX), very high thermal conductivity, long durability, safe application, non-conductive

The ARCTIC MX-4 is a premium thermal paste designed for optimal performance in all processors, including CPUs and GPUs. Its well-proven quality ensures that the formula remains unchanged, delivering consistent results. Made from carbon microparticles, this paste provides excellent thermal conductivity, helping to dissipate heat quickly and efficiently. The safe application is a key benefit, as it is metal-free and non-electrically conductive, reducing the risk of short circuits. With its easy-to-apply consistency, even beginners can achieve effective results.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • High thermal conductivity
  • Metal-free and safe
  • Easy to apply
  • Proven quality

BSFF 5.5g Thermal Paste for CPU

  • BSFF
  • BS-139
  • 5.5G
BSFF 5.5g Thermal Paste for CPU Cover

BSFF Thermal Paste, 5.5g with Toolkit CPU Paste Thermal Compound Paste Heatsink for IC/Processor/CPU/All Coolers, Carbon Based High Performance

The BSFF Thermal Paste offers a safe and effective solution for cooling your CPU and VGA card. Its metal-free and non-conductive formula eliminates the risk of short circuits, providing you with peace of mind. With its carbon microparticles, this paste boasts excellent thermal conductivity, ensuring that heat dissipates quickly from your components. Additionally, its durability means you won’t need to reapply it for at least five years, making it a hassle-free choice for users looking for long-lasting performance.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Safe and non-conductive
  • High thermal conductivity
  • Durable for five years
  • Easy to apply
#TOP 5

Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut Thermal Paste for Cooling

Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut Thermal Paste for Cooling Cover

Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut (1g) – Thermal Paste for CPU, GPU and consoles – Non-Conductive Thermal Compound with High Thermal Conductivity

The Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut offers extreme performance with a thermal conductivity of 12.5W/mK, making it ideal for high-demand setups. Its wide compatibility ensures it works seamlessly with CPUs, GPUs, and more, catering to all your cooling needs. The included spatula allows you to apply the paste easily and evenly, enhancing coverage for optimal cooling. With an optimal viscosity, it fills microscopic gaps effectively, promoting superior thermal conductivity and efficiency.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • High thermal conductivity
  • Wide compatibility
  • Easy application with spatula
  • Optimal viscosity for coverage
#TOP 6

Noctua NT-H1 Pro-Grade Thermal Compound

Noctua NT-H1 Pro-Grade Thermal Compound Cover

Noctua NT-H1 3.5g, Pro-Grade Thermal Compound Paste (3.5g)

The Noctua NT-H1 Thermal Paste is a premium-grade thermal compound designed for optimal heat transfer from your CPU or GPU to the heatsink. You will find it incredibly easy to apply, as there’s no need to spread it before installation. Cleaning is just as simple, requiring only a dry paper towel. This paste is effective for both air and liquid coolers, helping to significantly lower temperatures compared to standard pastes. With trusted Noctua quality, you can rely on its long-term stability for years of efficient performance.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy application process
  • Effective temperature reduction
  • Long-lasting performance
  • Versatile for various devices
#TOP 7

ARCTIC MX-6 Ultimate Thermal Paste

ARCTIC MX-6 Ultimate Thermal Paste Cover

ARCTIC MX-6 (8 g) - Ultimate Performance Thermal Paste for CPU, consoles, graphics cards, laptops, very high thermal conductivity, long durability, non-conductive, non-capacitive

The ARCTIC MX-6 offers impressive performance for your CPU, graphics cards, and consoles. With a 20% improvement in thermal conductivity compared to the MX-4, it effectively reduces thermal resistance, helping to keep your devices cool. Its non-conductive and non-capacitive nature means you can apply it without worrying about short circuits. Additionally, the MX-6's versatile application allows you to use it in various scenarios, including direct-die cooling for GPUs, ensuring that your components perform at their best.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Improved thermal conductivity
  • Non-conductive and safe
  • Versatile for many applications
  • Easy to apply

SYY Thermal Paste for CPU Heatsinks

  • SYY
  • SYY-157
  • grey
SYY Thermal Paste for CPU Heatsinks Cover

SYY Thermal Paste, 2g Upgrade Easy to Apply Thermal Compound Cpu Heatsink Paste for IC/Processor/CPU/All Coolers, Carbon Based High Performance, Thermal Interface Material

The SYY Thermal Paste offers a safe and effective solution for cooling your CPU or GPU. Its metal-free and non-conductive formula eliminates the risk of short circuits, ensuring your components remain protected. With excellent thermal conductivity, it effectively dissipates heat, improving the performance of your system. The paste is easy to apply, making it suitable for beginners, and its ideal consistency ensures safe use with all types of heatsinks. This durability means you won’t need to reapply for at least five years.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Non-conductive and safe
  • High thermal conductivity
  • Easy for beginners
  • Long-lasting performance
#TOP 9

ARCTIC MX-4 Thermal Paste for Processors

ARCTIC MX-4 Thermal Paste for Processors Cover

ARCTIC MX-4 (8 g) - Premium Performance Thermal Paste for all processors (CPU, GPU - PC, PS4, XBOX), very high thermal conductivity, long durability, safe application, non-conductive, non-capacitive

The ARCTIC MX-4 Thermal Paste offers impressive performance with its carbon microparticle composition, ensuring exceptional thermal conductivity. This means your CPU and GPU can effectively dissipate heat, maintaining optimal performance. Its metal-free and non-electrical conductive properties provide safety, significantly reducing the risk of short circuits. Moreover, the paste is designed for easy application, making it accessible even for beginners, so you can confidently enhance your system’s cooling without any hassle.

8.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • High thermal conductivity
  • Safe for electronics
  • Easy to apply
  • Proven quality
  • Authenticity check available
#TOP 10

Thermal Grizzly Duronaut Thermal Paste for Gaming

Thermal Grizzly Duronaut Thermal Paste for Gaming Cover

Thermal Grizzly Duronaut - 2 Gram - Enhanced Durability & High Performance Thermal Paste - for Maximum Thermal Conductivity While Overclocking CPU/GPU/PS4/PS5/Xbox

Thermal Grizzly Duronaut offers exceptional long-term stability, ensuring that it maintains its performance over time without hardening. This means you can enjoy reliable cooling for your CPU, GPU, or gaming consoles like PS4 and PS5. With superior thermal conductivity, it efficiently transfers heat away from components, promoting optimal cooling. Its electrically non-conductive nature makes it safe to use on all electronic parts, eliminating the worry of short circuits. Additionally, the minimised pump-out effect enhances adhesion, giving you consistent performance even during intense usage.

8.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Long-lasting performance
  • Efficient heat transfer
  • Safe for all components
  • Enhanced adhesion

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is thermal paste really necessary?

Thermal paste, or some oily thermal interface material, is necessary because it fills in the microscopic imperfections that otherwise trap air particles between the CPU and the heatsink, preventing the CPU from properly cooling.

2. What does thermal paste do?

Thermal Paste - A silvery-gray substance that you apply to a processor before installing a cooling solution. It allows for an efficient transfer of heat from the IHS of the processor to the base plate or water block of the CPU cooler that is designed to dissipate that heat.

3. Can I use toothpaste as thermal paste?

Toothpaste is also an excellent substitute for thermal paste. Its structure decays after a few days, especially if the operating temperatures are high.

4. How long does thermal paste last?

Most value options are good for two to three years, while higher-end compounds can go up to seven years. Replacing it every two to three years is a good idea and will keep your chip at its optimum.

Editor's Notes

During our thermal paste research, we found 269 thermal paste products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,136,530 customer reviews through our big data system to write the thermal paste list. We found that most customers choose thermal paste with an average price of £6.42.

The thermal paste are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of thermal paste, including ARCTIC, BSFF, Thermal Grizzly, Noctua, SYY.

Written by

Tom Law Avatar

Tom Law

Tom Law is an adventurer who has captured his love for nature into all of his works. A native of Newcastle, Tom has always wanted to share beautiful stories alongside the lovely sights of nature. Fortunately, he took into photography on one of his many journeys and gradually grew a passion for it. Tom Law is now an expert photographer who tours the world while creating and keeping memories of his adventures. He frequently puts his thoughts and experiences into writing.