I've been having some serious issues with my 9950X3D and Noctua NH-D15 G2 LBC, as it idles at around 60 degrees. Even with the fans cranked up to 100%, it only drops to 56 degrees. I've experimented with both 0 and -7mm offsets and tried thermal paste application methods, including the Pdot and Noctua's five-dot method. I even reset my BIOS settings but nothing seems to help. Under full CPU load, temperatures hit 95 degrees pretty quickly, leading me to believe throttling occurs eventually. I also tried removing the side of my case and maxing out my case fans, but the idle temperature remains too high. I'm using Arctic MX-6 thermal paste, and I really need some advice from fellow redditors. Is my application alright? From what I can see, I might have used too much, but my previous applications were the same without overflowing. I've been cautious with the mounting, using a quarter turn method when tightening until there's solid resistance. Check out the picture to see what I mean: https://photos.app.goo.gl/neY7kWv97mSRC52R9.
2 Answers
I'd reconsider getting a different cooler if you're not satisfied, but honestly, the Phantom Spirit 120 or A720 might not give you that much better performance. If airflow in your case is poor, it won’t matter what cooler you use. I recommend using HWInfo64 to keep an eye on your temps and fan speeds, and definitely check what programs are running when you think your system is idle. You might find some hidden culprits eating up resources.
Honestly, it looks like you applied the thermal paste quite well! The amount seems fine to me, and the way you've got the center of the cold plate on the CCD is spot on for even heat transfer. Plus, that marbling you mentioned shows good pressure. But if you want to double-check, here’s an example that aligns with your application: https://imgur.com/a/KLRGtXS. So I’d say don’t stress too much about the paste application itself.
Thanks for the reassurance!