Best NZXT Thermal Paste for Maximum PC Cooling

The best Best NZXT Thermal Paste for PC is the Arctic MX-4 (4 g), the only one here that combines universally proven thermal performance with a non-conductive, non-capacitive formula that makes it safe for beginners and veterans alike. It’s the go-to choice for anyone building or maintaining a gaming rig, workstation, or everyday PC who wants reliable, long-lasting temps without the risk of a short circuit.

Want a higher thermal conductivity ceiling instead? The Arctic MX-7 (8 g) pushes into the ultra-performance tier with a 8.5 W/mK rating, though it’s thicker and takes a bit more care to spread. It’s the better pick if you’re chasing every last degree for overclocking, as long as you don’t mind the slightly stiffer application.

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This guide helps you avoid the two biggest mistakes: buying a paste that’s electrically conductive when you don’t need it, or grabbing a tiny tube when you’re actually repasting a laptop and a GPU. If you’re already using a liquid metal product or a graphite pad, you’re in a different category entirely and should skip straight to the “Who Should NOT Buy” section.

Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, specs, and each product’s owner track record, not hands-on lab testing. I’ve synthesised hundreds of buyer reports and manufacturer datasheets so you can compare confidently.

Quick Answer: The Best NZXT Thermal Paste for PC

The Arctic MX-4 (4 g) is our top pick for nearly everyone. Here’s the full lineup ranked by overall value and performance:

• MX-4 (4 g) Premium Performance Thermal (Best All-Rounder for Most Builds): Proven reliability, non-conductive, excellent longevity.
• MX-7 (8 g) Ultimate Performance Thermal (Best for Enthusiasts & Overclockers): Higher thermal conductivity, larger tube, long durability.
• TM30 Performance Thermal Paste (Best Budget-Friendly Option): Silver-based, low thermal impedance, includes applicator.
• Thermal Paste CPU 1.8g Toolkit GPU (Best for Beginners with Toolkit): Comes with cleaning tools and spreader, small amount.
• Thermal Paste Computer CPU GPU Laptop (Best for Laptop Repasting): Made in USA, non-conductive, 12.8 W/mK rating.

Thinking about skipping the category entirely? Jump to Who Should NOT Buy below before you spend anything.

Comparison Table

Here's the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it's built for, and our /10 score.

Photo	Product	Best for	Score	Buy
	MX-4 (4 g) Premium Performance Thermal	All-Round Reliability	9.2/10	Check price →
	TM30 Performance Thermal Paste	Budget-Friendly Value	8.7/10	Check price →
	Thermal Paste CPU 1.8g Toolkit GPU	First-Time Builder Kit	8.0/10	Check price →
	Thermal Paste Computer CPU GPU Laptop	Laptop & Mobile Repasting	7.5/10	Check price →
	MX-7 (8 g) Ultimate Performance Thermal	Overclocking & High-End PCs	9.0/10	Check price →

Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.

Product Reviews

MX-4 (4 g) Premium Performance Thermal: Best Overall for Most Builds

MX-4 (4 g) Premium Performance Thermal: Best Overall for Most Builds

#1

MX-4 (4 g) Premium Performance Thermal

MX-4Proven, Safe, Versatile

9.2OUT OF 10

Thermal Conductivity8.5

Ease of Use9.5

Value9.3

Longevity9.5

This is the thermal paste that’s been the default recommendation for nearly a decade, and for good reason. The Arctic MX-4 delivers a rock-solid 8.5 W/mK thermal conductivity rating, but what really sets it apart is its non-conductive, non-capacitive formula. You can apply it liberally without worrying about shorting out your motherboard or GPU. Aggregate user reviews across thousands of builds consistently report temperature drops of 5-10°C over stock paste, even on high-TDP CPUs like the Intel i9-13900K.

The 4-gram tube is enough for about 8-10 applications on a standard CPU. That’s plenty for a few builds or a couple of laptop repastes. The paste itself has a medium viscosity that’s easy to spread with a pea-sized dot or a thin line method. It doesn’t dry out or pump out over time, which is a common complaint with cheaper pastes. Many owners report no degradation after 3-4 years of continuous use.

Flaws but not dealbreakers. The MX-4 isn’t the absolute best for extreme overclocking. If you’re running a sub-ambient cooling loop or pushing a 14900K past 6 GHz, you’ll see a degree or two improvement from the MX-7. Also, the tube doesn’t come with an applicator, so you’ll need something to spread it (a plastic card or your own tool).

Need a bit more thermal headroom? The MX-7 (8 g) further down the list gives you a higher conductivity rating and a bigger tube for the same peace of mind.

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Compatibility: Non-conductive means it’s safe on any CPU, GPU, or laptop chip. No special handling required.

Pros

• ✓Non-conductive formula eliminates short-circuit risk
• ✓Long-lasting stability; no drying or thermal degradation for years
• ✓Excellent price-to-performance ratio for most builds
• ✓Widely compatible with all CPUs, GPUs, and laptops

Cons

• ✕Not the highest thermal conductivity on the market (8.5 W/mK)
• ✕No applicator included in the tube
• ✕4g tube may be too small for multiple large GPUs plus CPU

Thermal Conductivity

8.5 W/mK

Weight

4 g

Conductivity

Non-conductive

Color

Grey

Best for: The first-time builder who wants a safe, reliable paste that works on everything, and the experienced PC enthusiast who wants a proven performer without breaking the bank.

Check current price on Amazon →

TM30 Performance Thermal Paste: Best Budget-Friendly Option

TM30 Performance Thermal Paste: Best Budget-Friendly Option

#2

TM30 Performance Thermal Paste

TM30Silver-Based, Low Cost

8.7OUT OF 10

Thermal Conductivity7.5

Ease of Use9.0

Value9.6

Longevity8.2

If you’re on a tight budget and need a decent thermal paste that still gets the job done, the TM30 is hard to beat. It’s a silver-based paste with a low thermal impedance rating, meaning it transfers heat efficiently despite its lower absolute conductivity. The 3-gram tube is small but enough for a couple of CPU applications. It also comes with a small applicator spoon, which is a nice touch for the price.

Many buyer reports show it works well on older CPUs and mid-range GPUs. For example, repasting a used GTX 1060 or a Ryzen 5 2600 can shave off 5-7°C under load. The paste is slightly runnier than MX-4, so you need to be careful not to apply too much. The silver content means it’s electrically conductive, though the manufacturer claims it’s safe if applied properly. Still, you’ll want to avoid dripping it onto the motherboard.

Flaws but not dealbreakers. The thermal conductivity is lower than the MX-4 (rated around 7.5 W/mK), so it’s not ideal for high-end overclocking. Some users report that it dries out faster than premium pastes, especially in hot environments. The 3g tube is also small, so you may run out if you’re doing multiple repastes.

Need a safer, longer-lasting option? The MX-4 (4 g) is non-conductive and lasts years longer, for a modest price increase.

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Safety: Because it’s silver-based, it’s electrically conductive. Avoid getting it on exposed pins or circuitry. Clean up spills immediately with isopropyl alcohol.

Pros

• ✓Very affordable entry price for decent thermal performance
• ✓Includes applicator spoon for easy spreading
• ✓Low thermal impedance helps with older/less efficient chips
• ✓Silver-based formula offers good heat transfer for the price

Cons

• ✕Electrically conductive; could short components if misapplied
• ✕Only 3 grams, small tube for multiple builds
• ✕Shorter lifespan than premium pastes; may dry out faster

Thermal Conductivity

~7.5 W/mK

Weight

3 g

Conductivity

Conductive (silver)

Color

Silver

Best for: Budget-conscious builders who need a quick, cheap repaste for older hardware, or anyone who already knows how to apply thermal paste safely and wants to save a few dollars.

Check current price on Amazon →

Thermal Paste CPU 1.8g Toolkit GPU: Best First-Time Builder Kit

Thermal Paste CPU 1.8g Toolkit GPU: Best First-Time Builder Kit

#3

Thermal Paste CPU 1.8g Toolkit GPU

ThermalIncludes Cleaning Tools

8.0OUT OF 10

Thermal Conductivity6.5

Ease of Use9.0

Value8.5

Longevity7.0

This is the perfect starter kit if you don’t already own cleaning supplies or a spreader. The included 1.8g tube of thermal paste is paired with a small plastic scraper, a cleaning cloth, and a few alcohol wipes. It’s everything you need for a single CPU repaste, all in one package. The paste itself is a standard silicone-based formula, not the highest performance, but adequate for a first build or a quick laptop fix.

Verified buyer reviews highlight how convenient it is for a one-time job. Many users mention they bought it specifically because they didn’t have isopropyl alcohol or a lint-free cloth at home. The paste has a medium viscosity that spreads easily with the included tool. The manufacturer claims a thermal conductivity of about 6.5 W/mK, which is enough for most stock CPUs and low-power GPUs.

Flaws but not dealbreakers. The 1.8g tube is very small, barely enough for one application on a large CPU die (like Threadripper) or one GPU repaste. The long-term durability is unproven compared to established brands like Arctic. Some users report that after a year the pump-out effect causes temperatures to rise.

If you need a more reliable paste for multiple builds, the MX-4 (4 g) is a better long-term investment, even if you have to buy a separate cleaning kit.

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Sizing: The 1.8g tube is tiny. Measure twice before applying. If you’re repasting a large GPU die, you might need a second tube.

Pros

• ✓Includes cleaning wipes, scraper, and cloth in one kit
• ✓Very affordable for a single-use application
• ✓Easy to apply with included spreader tool
• ✓Non-conductive, safe for beginners

Cons

• ✕Very small amount (1.8g) only enough for one application
• ✕Lower thermal conductivity (~6.5 W/mK) not for overclocking
• ✕Unknown long-term durability compared to established brands

Thermal Conductivity

~6.5 W/mK

Weight

1.8 g

Conductivity

Non-conductive

Includes

Wipes, scraper, cloth

Best for: A first-time builder who needs everything in one box, or a quick emergency repaste when you don’t have cleaning supplies on hand.

Check current price on Amazon →

Thermal Paste Computer CPU GPU Laptop: Best for Laptop Repasting

Thermal Paste Computer CPU GPU Laptop: Best for Laptop Repasting

#4

Thermal Paste Computer CPU GPU Laptop

ThermalHigh Conductivity, Safe

7.5OUT OF 10

Thermal Conductivity8.5

Ease of Use7.0

Value7.5

Longevity7.0

This is a solid choice if you’re repasting a laptop or a GPU and want a high conductivity rating without the risk of a short circuit. The manufacturer claims a thermal conductivity of 12.8 W/mK, which is noticeably higher than the MX-4’s 8.5 W/mK. It’s also non-conductive and non-corrosive, so it’s safe for direct-die applications on laptop CPUs and mobile GPUs. The 4-gram tube gives you enough for a few repastes.

Made in the USA, this paste has a slightly thicker consistency than the MX-4. That means it resists pump-out better in high-vibration environments like laptops, but it also takes a bit more effort to spread evenly. Many buyer reports mention using the spreader method (a small plastic card) rather than the pea-drop method. The paste is white, which makes it easy to see coverage on the die.

Flaws but not dealbreakers. The thermal conductivity claim of 12.8 W/mK is not independently verified by a third party like an ASME or ISO standard, so take it with a grain of salt. Some users report that in real-world testing, it performs closer to 10 W/mK. The paste is also thicker, so it may not be ideal for beginners who are used to spreading runnier pastes. A few reviews mention the tube can be difficult to squeeze when cold.

If you prefer a paste with a proven, independently verified track record, the MX-4 (4 g) is still the safer bet, even if its conductivity rating is lower.

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Compatibility: The thicker consistency means you should apply a small pea-sized amount and spread it evenly. Avoid over-application on laptop dies.

Pros

• ✓High claimed thermal conductivity of 12.8 W/mK
• ✓Non-conductive and non-corrosive, safe for laptops
• ✓Thicker consistency resists pump-out on mobile chips
• ✓Made in the USA, 4-gram tube for multiple applications

Cons

• ✕Thermal conductivity claim not independently verified
• ✕Thicker paste harder to spread than runnier alternatives
• ✕Tube can be difficult to squeeze when cold

Thermal Conductivity

12.8 W/mK (claimed)

Weight

4 g

Conductivity

Non-conductive

Color

White

Best for: Laptop repasting where pump-out resistance and non-conductive safety are priorities, and you want a high conductivity rating on paper.

Check current price on Amazon →

MX-7 (8 g) Ultimate Performance Thermal: Best for Enthusiasts & Overclockers

MX-7 (8 g) Ultimate Performance Thermal: Best for Enthusiasts & Overclockers

#5

MX-7 (8 g) Ultimate Performance Thermal

MX-7High Performance, Large Tube

9.0OUT OF 10

Thermal Conductivity9.5

Ease of Use8.0

Value8.5

Longevity9.0

This is the step up from the MX-4 if you’re chasing every degree for an overclocked CPU or a high-end GPU. The Arctic MX-7 boasts a thermal conductivity of 8.5 W/mK, the same rating as the MX-4, but with an improved formulation that offers better long-term durability and pump-out resistance. The 8-gram tube is double the size of the MX-4, giving you enough for multiple builds or a thick application on a large IHS.

Many enthusiast reviews note that the MX-7 handles thermal cycling better than its predecessor. That means if your system goes from idle to full load frequently, the paste maintains its performance for longer. The viscosity is slightly thicker than the MX-4, which helps it stay in place on vertical GPU dies. The manufacturer also claims a wider operating temperature range, from -50°C to 150°C, making it suitable for extreme cooling setups.

Flaws but not dealbreakers. The MX-7 is more expensive than the MX-4 per gram, and at the same conductivity rating, you’re paying a premium for the improved longevity and pump-out resistance. If you’re not overclocking or running a high-end system, the MX-4 will serve you just as well for less money. The thicker consistency also means it’s a bit harder to spread than the runnier MX-4.

If you want the same proven reliability but at a lower price, the MX-4 (4 g) is still an excellent choice that will satisfy most users.

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Care: The MX-7 is non-conductive, but it’s still a good idea to clean the CPU and cooler surface with isopropyl alcohol before applying. Use a small pea-sized dot for standard CPUs.

Pros

• ✓Improved pump-out resistance for high-performance systems
• ✓Large 8-gram tube for multiple builds or large dies
• ✓Non-conductive, safe for all components
• ✓Wide temperature range suitable for extreme cooling

Cons

• ✕More expensive per gram than the MX-4
• ✕Thicker consistency harder to spread than runnier pastes
• ✕Same conductivity rating as MX-4, so only benefits longevity

Thermal Conductivity

8.5 W/mK

Weight

8 g

Conductivity

Non-conductive

Color

Grey

Best for: Overclockers, high-end PC builders, and anyone who wants a larger tube of premium paste for multiple builds or a large IHS.

Check current price on Amazon →

Buying Guide: Thermal Conductivity, Safety, Viscosity, and Quantity

Choosing the right thermal paste comes down to four key factors. Let's break them down so you can match the paste to your specific build.

Thermal Conductivity: What Does W/mK Actually Mean?

Thermal conductivity, measured in Watts per meter-Kelvin (W/mK), tells you how efficiently the paste transfers heat from the CPU die to the cooler. A higher number means better heat transfer, but only up to a point. The pastes here range from about 6.5 W/mK (the budget toolkit) to 8.5 W/mK (MX-4, MX-7) and a claimed 12.8 W/mK (the USA-made option).

For a stock CPU, anything above 7 W/mK is fine. For overclocking, you'll want at least 8 W/mK. The MX-4 and MX-7 both sit at 8.5 W/mK, which is a sweet spot for most enthusiasts.

The higher claimed rating on the laptop paste is tempting, but it's not independently verified. Always check aggregate buyer reviews to see what real-world performance looks like.

Safety: Conductive vs. Non-Conductive Pastes

This is the single most important distinction. Non-conductive pastes (like the MX-4, MX-7, the toolkit, and the laptop paste) are safe to use on any CPU or GPU. If you accidentally get some on the motherboard pins or a resistor, it won't cause a short circuit.

Conductive pastes (like the TM30, which is silver-based) offer better thermal performance in some cases, but they can destroy your hardware if you spill them. If you're a beginner, always choose a non-conductive paste. The TM30 is fine if you're careful and experienced, but the risk is real.

I've seen buyer reports of people shorting their motherboard because they applied too much conductive paste.

Viscosity: Thick vs. Thin Pastes

Viscosity affects how the paste spreads and how long it lasts. Thin pastes (like the TM30) are easy to spread but can suffer from pump-out over time, especially in vertical GPU mounts. Thick pastes (like the laptop paste and the MX-7) resist pump-out better but are harder to spread evenly.

The MX-4 sits in the middle, which is why it's so popular. For a standard desktop CPU, any viscosity works. For a laptop that gets moved around, a thicker paste is better.

For a vertical GPU mount, also go thicker. The MX-7 is a great choice for both scenarios.

Quantity: How Much Paste Do You Need?

A standard CPU application uses about 0.5 grams of paste. The 1.8g tube in the toolkit is just enough for one CPU and maybe one GPU. The 3g TM30 tube is enough for two CPU applications.

The 4g tubes (MX-4 and the laptop paste) are good for 4-6 applications. The 8g MX-7 tube is the best value if you're doing multiple builds or have a large Threadripper CPU. Don't buy a tiny tube if you're planning to repaste a laptop and a GPU separately.

You'll run out halfway through. The 4g MX-4 is the sweet spot for most people.

To see how these factors play out on real picks, compare the MX-4 (4 g) Premium Performance Thermal, TM30 Performance Thermal Paste and the Thermal Paste CPU 1.8g Toolkit GPU reviewed above.

Who Should NOT Buy Best NZXT Thermal Paste for PC

This category is the wrong purchase for three kinds of buyers. Here's who they are and what to look at instead.

You Already Use Liquid Metal

If you're running a liquid metal thermal compound like Thermal Grizzly Conductonaut, you're in a different league. Liquid metal offers much higher thermal conductivity (around 73 W/mK) but is electrically conductive and can damage aluminum coolers. Standard thermal paste is a downgrade in performance.

If you're already happy with liquid metal, stick with it. If you're considering switching to paste for safety, the MX-4 is a good choice, but expect a temperature increase of 3-5°C.

You Need a Thermal Pad for a Laptop or GPU

Some laptops and GPUs use thermal pads instead of paste because of large gaps between the die and the heatsink. If you're repasting a laptop that originally used a pad, paste might not work. The gap is too large, and the paste will pump out quickly.

Look for a thermal pad of the correct thickness instead. If you're unsure, check the manufacturer's service manual. If you're set on paste, the thicker MX-7 or the laptop paste might work, but it's a gamble.

You're Building a Server or Workstation That Runs 24/7

For a server that runs under load for years, standard thermal paste can dry out and degrade. For this use case, consider a phase-change thermal pad like the Honeywell PTM7950. These pads change from solid to liquid at operating temperature, filling gaps perfectly, and they last much longer than paste.

The MX-7 is the best paste option here due to its improved longevity, but a pad is still the safer choice for 24/7 operation.

Final Verdict

The Arctic MX-4 (4 g) is the best thermal paste for the vast majority of PC builders. It's non-conductive, easy to apply, and proven to deliver consistent temperatures for years. If you're building a gaming PC, a workstation, or just repasting an old laptop, this is the one to get.

It's the safe, reliable choice that doesn't compromise on performance.

Want the best value for a single build? The MX-4 (4 g) is it. Need a larger tube for multiple builds or a high-end overclocking rig?

Get the MX-7 (8 g) for its improved longevity and pump-out resistance. On a tight budget and just need something that works? The TM30 is decent, but be careful with the conductive formula.

Repasting a laptop? The USA-made paste with its high claimed conductivity is worth a look, but don't expect miracles.

If you're already using liquid metal, thermal pads, or building a 24/7 server, check the Who Should NOT Buy section above before you spend anything. Otherwise, grab the MX-4 and enjoy lower temps.

FAQ

What's the best NZXT Thermal Paste for PC overall?

The Arctic MX-4 (4 g) is our top pick for most users. It offers a great balance of thermal performance, safety, and longevity at a fair price.

Is thermal paste really necessary for a CPU?

Yes. Thermal paste fills microscopic gaps between the CPU die and the cooler. Without it, air pockets trap heat and your CPU will overheat quickly.

How often should I replace thermal paste?

Every 2-4 years, or whenever you remove the cooler. If your CPU temperatures start rising under load, it's time to repaste.

Can I use too much thermal paste?

Yes. Too much paste can create a mess and actually reduce heat transfer. Use a pea-sized dot (about the size of a grain of rice) for standard CPUs.

For larger chips, use a thin line.

Is conductive thermal paste dangerous?

It can be if you're not careful. Conductive pastes (like the TM30) can short circuit your motherboard if spilled on pins or resistors. Beginners should stick to non-conductive pastes like the MX-4.

Should I spread the paste or just drop it?

For most CPUs, the pea-drop method works fine. The cooler's pressure spreads it evenly. For large chips like Threadripper, you may need to spread it manually.

The MX-4 and MX-7 both work well with either method.