Non-conductive thermal paste is used to assist heat dissipation in electronic devices. Its purpose is to keep the device at the correct temperature, ensuring that it operates properly and does not overheat.
It’s important to choose a thermal paste with high longevity, as this means it will remain effective for an extended period of time, reducing the need for frequent reapplication. Additionally, opt for a thermal paste with an easy-to-use application method.
High thermal conductivity
This thermal paste has an excellent thermal conductivity rating and is metal-free & non-conductive. It is a pale gray in color, non-curing, and can last up to 4 years before needing replacement.
It has a smooth texture and easy-to-spread consistency, making it ideal for every experience level. It is also affordable and offers great value per gram.
Liquid metal compounds, such as CoolLaboratory Liquid Ultra and the newer Thermal Grizzly Conductonaut, typically outperform traditional pastes in temperature tests, but they aren’t suitable for everyone. They are electrically conductive and can damage your computer if some oozes onto the motherboard.
The Gelid GC-Extreme is another good option for those seeking a high-end product. This compound has a moderate viscosity and spreads evenly during application, but requires consistent, slow pressure on the syringe plunger to be placed correctly.
Longevity
A good non-conductive thermal paste will last for a long time. Its longevity is based on its working temperature range, breakdown voltage and viscosity. The latter is a measurement of a liquid’s resistance to shear. One poise is equal to a shear stress of 1 dyne per square centimeter.
A thermal paste’s longevity can also depend on its compatibility with your CPU. For example, if you’re running an old motherboard, it may not be compatible with the latest thermal pastes.
Other factors that affect longevity include the application method and the price. For instance, a high-quality carbon-based thermal paste will have an extended lifespan and is easy to apply. Its longevity is further enhanced by its durability. Some even come with a screw-on cap syringe that maintains compound longevity to prevent drying.
Electrical conductivity
A quality thermal paste should not conduct electricity, as this can cause short circuits and damage your computer. The best non-conductive thermal pastes use silicone and non-conductive metal oxides, such as aluminum or zinc. They are also non-curing and insulating to prevent short circuits.
These types of thermal compounds are great for CPUs, GPUs, and video cards. They also offer excellent stability and a low coefficient of expansion. They are available in different price points and performance levels.
Some liquid metal-based thermal pastes, like CoolLaboratory Liquid Ultra and the new Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut, outperform other products by up to ten degrees Celsius in some tests. However, they are expensive and require careful application due to their thickness. They also contain electrically conductive metals, which could cause damage if they leak onto components.
Application method
The type of application method a non-conductive thermal paste uses determines how easily it can be applied to the CPU. It’s best to choose a paste that has a user-friendly application method, such as a spatula or a syringe, to make it easier to spread the product evenly.
This type of paste is used to help heat get off the CPU and into a cooler to be dissipated. It helps by filling the microscopic imperfections between the two surfaces, which makes it possible for the heat to transfer.
This product is a top performer, but it does have some downsides. It’s more expensive than other options and it requires extra effort to apply because of its thickness. It also has an electrical conductivity rating, which isn’t ideal because it could cause unwanted current to flow through your computer components.
Storage
Non-conductive thermal paste is used to help conduct heat off of the processor chip and into a cooling heat sink. It fills the gaps between the CPU and the heat sink, which reduces temperatures and prolongs CPU lifespans. Choosing a high-quality, long-lasting non-conductive thermal paste is essential for maximum performance and longevity.
The best non-conductive thermal pastes use a combination of silicone and metal oxide to fill the gap between the heat sink and the CPU. Most of these products are non-conductive, which means they do not conduct electricity and do not pose any risk of electrical damage if they spill onto electrical components.
A good example is the Noctua NT-H1, which offers recommended storage and usage times of up to three years, and comes with a 3.5g pack that provides multiple applications, depending on the CPU size. It also features a screw-on cap syringe, which helps maintain compound longevity.
