I've been applying thermal paste this way for a while, but I'm starting to second-guess myself, especially since this CPU is more expensive than my last one! When I had my old 5600x, it sat around 25-30°C in the BIOS, but now I'm seeing around 35°C with the new CPU. That 10°C difference feels odd, even if the temperatures are still low. Earlier, when I set up this new CPU on a different motherboard, it was only 27°C, but I used a lot more paste back then and applied it in an X pattern. Now I'm worried I've under-applied it. Should I reapply the thermal paste? What do you think? Cheers!
7 Answers
I say go with a bit more paste and try the cross or manual spread method. If you overdo it a little, it'll just ooze out when you mount the cooler, no biggie!
A lot of people overthink CPU temps. If it doesn't hit the maximum temp threshold, you're in good shape. Just keep the PC off when you want to cool it down!
You're overthinking it, man! Honestly, I'd recommend using a bit more paste, but if your temps are low, it should be fine. If it's running cool, that's what matters!
That CPU runs a bit hotter than a 5600x, so a 5°C difference is totally normal. Just keep an eye on it, especially under load when it might hit 80°C. You're okay, don't worry!
I’d lose it if it ever hit 80°C! I usually tweak the settings to keep it below 60°C. Definitely looking forward to seeing how this x3D performs!
That's definitely enough thermal paste! Don't stress too much about it. Just remember to monitor those temps under load, but you're good to go.
The link you shared isn't working, but check out GamersNexus for great videos on thermal paste application methods. You'll learn a lot!
Thanks! I'll check it out. Sorry about the link, it seems to work for me!
Two different CPUs mean different thermal readings. AM5 CPUs tend to hold heat better because of a thicker IHS, so that variance is expected.
Thanks for clarifying! With the horror stories about the 9800x3D, I thought about reapplying but I'm nervous about putting too much on!
Haha, I get it! I tend to overthink things too. The paste that came with my cooler was in such a tiny tube, so I just went with what I had left!