Thermal paste fills tiny gaps between your CPU/GPU and the cooler so heat can move out more efficiently.

• Improves contact: Metal surfaces aren’t perfectly flat. Paste fills microscopic air pockets that would otherwise trap heat.
• Stabilizes temperatures: Better contact can help keep temps more consistent under load, which may reduce throttling.
• Supports quieter cooling: When heat transfers effectively, your cooler doesn’t have to work as hard.

It isn’t a permanent glue and it doesn’t cool on its own; it helps the heatsink or liquid cooler do its job. Results can vary based on your cooler, case airflow, and room temperature. You can find a variety of thermal compounds and applicators on Walmart.com.

Use thermal paste any time a heatsink or cooler is installed on a CPU or GPU.

• New build or CPU upgrade: Fresh paste helps establish proper thermal contact.
• Reseating or replacing a cooler: Clean off the old layer and apply new paste.
• After cleaning: Once old paste is removed, reapply before remounting.
• Long-term maintenance: Some users refresh paste after years of heat cycles.

Many coolers include pre-applied paste; you can use it or clean it off and apply your preferred compound. Always follow the cooler and paste instructions, since application methods can differ. If you’re unsure, browsing product guides and Q&A on Walmart.com can help you choose the right approach.

Running a CPU or GPU without thermal paste typically leads to poor heat transfer.

• Higher temps and throttling: The processor may quickly hit thermal limits and reduce performance.
• Stability issues: You might see crashes, freezes, or unexpected shutdowns as protection features activate.
• Long-term stress: Repeated overheating can contribute to premature wear on components over time.

Modern systems often include safeguards, but they’re not a substitute for proper installation. It’s advisable to apply paste and verify a secure cooler mount before regular use. If temperatures remain high after applying paste, checking case airflow and fan profiles can also help.

Watch for temperature and performance changes over time.

• Rising temps: Idle or load temps creeping higher than usual can be a sign.
• Louder fans or throttling: The system may ramp fans more often or reduce boost speeds.
• Age and heat cycles: Paste can dry out after years of use, heavy workloads, or frequent thermal swings.
• Visual check: If you remove the cooler and see dried, cracked, or uneven paste, it’s a good time to repaste.

Reapply whenever you remove the heatsink. If your device is difficult to service (like some laptops), reviewing the manufacturer’s guidance or seeking professional help can reduce the risk of damage. Results vary based on environment and usage.

For most standard pastes on desktop CPUs, a small amount goes a long way.

1. Clean surfaces: Use isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth to remove old paste.
2. Apply a small dot: A pea-sized (or small line/X for larger chips) is usually sufficient.
3. Mount evenly: Seat the cooler with even pressure so the paste spreads across the chip.

Too much paste can squeeze out and reduce effectiveness; too little can leave gaps. Different compounds may recommend slightly different patterns, and liquid metal typically requires a distinct method. Following the instructions for your paste and cooler can help achieve consistent results.