Thermal Paste Comparison
Reviewed by Jason Jacobs on 08.13.2003

Application and Removal/Cleanup:

Arctic Silver 3: Arctic silver has definitely made some improvements in the design of AS3 over AS2. While it is easier to cleanup and easier to apply, it still manages to be difficult to get off of surfaces, most notably fingers and skin.

Silver Grease: If the users of Arctic Silver 2 thought it was difficult to clean up, they should steer clear of this compound. It is very difficult to clean up or remove, hardens easily, flakes off, spreads in blobs, and provides overall the second worst temperatures.

Nanotherm Blue II: It is as easy to apply as the AS3 was; its removal was easier with less re-wiping needed.

Nanotherm Silver XTC: Its application is slightly easier than the AS3. Less time was required to get a thin, even coat than with AS3. Removal was about the same as AS3, with the same problems if you manage to get it on skin or fingers.

Nanotherm PCM+: This is by far the easiest to apply, coming with its own applicator. A thin even coat is simple for even the least dexterous person. Removal, likewise, is the simplest of the group, one wipe and it's done.

Shin Etsu G751: Application, while difficult, is not as hard as the news on the internet makes it out to be. The use of a thin, hard, flat edge makes application easier, but still not in the same category of ease as any of the others. It does tend to blob when applied, and can be frustrating for someone with little patience. Removal was simple, though, with only a single wipe or two needed to remove the compound completely.

Silicone Compound: This is easy to apply, if used in small amounts. If too large a portion is used, it becomes sticky and tends to get messy. Removal can be a pain, as this compound tends to remain sticky and gets on surfaces easily.