When handling CPU swaps and/or similar situations, it becomes important to look for a stable solution that will help maintain contact.
If you are attempting to choose the right material, it often comes down to two options on the open market – thermal paste and a graphite thermal pad.
To figure out what’s best, it’s time to compare a graphite thermal pad vs paste.
Graphite thermal pads are easier to size as they can be cut into precise pieces and are easier to ship. On the other hand, thermal paste is more efficient, reusable, and safer.
In most cases, experts still believe thermal paste is the better solution.
There is an added risk of the graphite thermal pad not working after its first time being used. This creates a situation where there is more wastage and that adds to your expenses.
This is why a lot of users will lean towards using thermal paste for CPU swaps.
Here is a look at comparing thermal paste to graphite thermal pads for those who want a solution that works well in all situations. The information here will make your choice a lot easier.
Table of Contents
Comparing Graphite Thermal Pad Vs Paste
1. Sizing
Let’s begin with sizing.
When comparing a thermal pad vs a thermal paste, you have to think about the application phase. The reason people admire what a graphite thermal pad can do is the way it’s customizable.
You don’t have to worry about the paste getting into the wrong place. Instead, the pad you are going to use will be cut precisely to fit the spot it is going in. This simplifies everything and allows you to use a precise measurement tool to cut the pad down to size.
This is beneficial for those who want to avoid making mistakes.
If customization was the only factor involved in CPU swaps then you would lean towards graphite thermal pads. However, there is more at play than just personalization or sizing.
2. Efficiency
Now, you will want to think about efficiency.
There is no purpose behind using a specific solution if it does not do its job properly. This is an important factor to consider when comparing thermal paste to a thermal pad.
In general, thermal pads are simply inefficient.
When compression happens, the thermal pad is not going to bounce back. This means it creates a scenario where the CPU’s heat starts rising and that defeats the purpose of using a graphite thermal pad in the first place.
Going with an inefficient solution is simply not the right fit for the average user and that is what pushes the graphite thermal pad to a lower rank between these two solutions.
On the other hand, thermal paste is straightforward when it is applied the right way. It will manage compression with a breeze.
3. Reusable
Graphite thermal pads are not reusable.
This means you are going to have a sunk cost that is only going to work once. On the other hand, the thermal paste can be reused and you are going to have the chance to apply it as you want to.
This goes a long way for those who are thinking about overall costs.
Reusable solutions are a must and you will not get this with a thermal pad that has been cut.
4. Safety
This is an important factor when comparing the two options.
The thermal pad is unsafe.
It is not going to handle heat or compression as well in most systems. This means once it has been cut and put into place, it will then become compromised leading to sudden issues.
This can lead to eventual bugs within the system that you are not going to want to deal with. It’s best to think about this when it comes to overall safety. Otherwise, you are not going to enjoy the results of the solution.
Thermal paste is much safer when it is applied in the right spot and that is why it is a proven option among experts.
Final Thoughts
These factors often play a role when comparing graphite thermal pad vs paste.
Graphite thermal pads are known for being easier to transport and will be fully customizable as they can be cut to size. On the other hand, thermal paste is far more effective as a solution, reusable, and safer.
For most people, thermal paste is simply the better fit.
It offers the type of efficiency and performance that you are on the lookout for. You will know as long as the thermal paste is applied thoroughly, it will work wonders.
Going with a graphite thermal pad is just not going to be on par with what you want.
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