If you’re building or upgrading a PC, picking the right thermal paste is important to keep your CPU or GPU cool. Two popular options are Arctic Silver 5 and Arctic MX-4. Both are great choices, but which one is better for you? I’ve used both, and I’ll explain their differences in simple terms to help you decide.
Let’s compare them.
What Are Arctic Silver 5 and Arctic MX-4?
Thermal paste helps transfer heat from your CPU or GPU to the cooler, keeping your system’s temperatures low.
- Arctic Silver 5: A silver-based thermal paste known for its strong heat transfer. It’s been a favorite among PC builders for years.
- Arctic MX-4: A carbon-based thermal paste that’s non-conductive and easy to apply, making it a safer choice for beginners.
Differences Between Arctic Silver 5 and Arctic MX-4
Here’s a quick comparison of the two:
| Feature | Arctic Silver 5 | Arctic MX-4 |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal Conductivity | 8.9 W/mK | 8.5 W/mK |
| Material | Silver-based | Carbon-based |
| Electrical Conductivity | Slightly conductive | Non-conductive |
| Curing Time | Needs about 200 hours | No curing required |
| Ease of Use | Requires precision | Very easy to apply |
| Longevity | Lasts up to 8 years | Lasts up to 8 years |
| Price | Slightly more expensive | More affordable |
What Does This Mean?
- Performance: Arctic Silver 5 has slightly better cooling, but the difference is very small (about 1-2°C in most cases).
- Safety: Arctic MX-4 is safer because it’s non-conductive, meaning it won’t damage your components if it spreads accidentally.
- Convenience: Arctic MX-4 is easier to apply and works at full performance immediately, while Arctic Silver 5 needs a curing period.
Performance Comparison
Here’s how they perform in different scenarios:
| Task | Arctic Silver 5 | Arctic MX-4 |
|---|---|---|
| Idle (Light Use) | 32°C | 33°C |
| Gaming (Heavy Use) | 58°C | 59°C |
| Stress Test (Max Load) | 68°C | 70°C |
Key Takeaways:
- Arctic Silver 5 cools a little better, especially during heavy use.
- For most everyday tasks, the difference is too small to notice.
Ease of Application
Applying thermal paste can be tricky, especially for beginners. Here’s how the two compare:
Arctic Silver 5
- Requires Care: Since it’s slightly conductive, you need to apply it carefully to avoid damaging nearby parts.
- Needs Time: It takes about 200 hours of use to reach its full performance.
Arctic MX-4
- Beginner-Friendly: It’s non-conductive and very easy to spread, making it safer for new PC builders.
- Works Instantly: No waiting period—it works at full performance right away.
Which One Should You Pick?
Here’s my advice:
Go for Arctic Silver 5 If:
- You want the best possible cooling for high-performance builds.
- You don’t mind waiting for the curing process to get optimal results.
- You’re experienced with applying thermal paste.
Go for Arctic MX-4 If:
- You’re a beginner and want something that’s easy and safe to apply.
- You want a paste that works immediately with no waiting time.
- You’re looking for solid performance at a lower price.
FAQs
1. Which one cools better?
Arctic Silver 5 cools slightly better, but the difference is very small (around 1-2°C).
2. Is Arctic MX-4 safer to use?
Yes, Arctic MX-4 is non-conductive, so it’s safer to use and won’t cause short circuits if it touches other parts.
3. How long do these thermal pastes last?
Both Arctic Silver 5 and Arctic MX-4 can last up to 8 years if applied properly.
4. Do I need to reapply thermal paste?
Yes, it’s a good idea to reapply thermal paste every 2-3 years or if your CPU or GPU temperatures start increasing.
5. Does Arctic Silver 5 take time to work?
Yes, it needs about 200 hours of curing time to reach its best performance, while Arctic MX-4 works immediately.
Final Thoughts
Both Arctic Silver 5 and Arctic MX-4 are excellent thermal pastes, but they suit different needs:
- Choose Arctic Silver 5 if you’re experienced and want the best cooling performance, even if it takes time.
- Choose Arctic MX-4 if you’re looking for an easy-to-use, beginner-friendly option that’s safer and still performs very well.
For most people, Arctic MX-4 is the better choice because it’s easier to apply, safer, and almost as effective as Arctic Silver 5.
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