Installing i5-2500k with no thermal paste?

[JamesAllen]

I am building my first computer, and I went to install my i5-2500K. After installing the CPU I went to install the CPU cooler, and realized that the package did not contain thermal paste. When I googled the product some people said the rubber like substance on the bottom of the cpu cooler was the thermal paste and that it would melt and cover the CPU after some initial use. Is this true or do I need to purchase separate thermal paste? I do not want to add thermal paste only to build up a layer too thick when combined with what may already be thermal paste on the cpu cooler.

 

[vas flam]

The intel stock fans come with it pre applied and works. IMO I would wipe off the the stock compound with isopropyl alcohol 90-100% and apply some higher quality thermal paste.

 

[cjl]

The stuff on the bottom of the stock cooler is thermal paste, and it's not bad either. I wouldn't bother with better stuff unless you're also using a better heatsink. It definitely shouldn't be rubbery though - it should be a paste.

 

[jimmysmitty]

Yeah get artic Mx-4 thermal compound. Don't bother with As5.

IC Diamond 24.

 

[SuperCruz]

Aftermarket Thermal Paste will get your CPU temp down a few extra degrees but the generic paste will be fine. If you use the Artic stuff, just put a drop about the size of a pea. Its also important to have adequate airflow in your case. Good Luck!

 

[majin ssj eric]

I just reseated my cpu cooler twice the other day and found that a pea-sized bead was way too much. My final paste application was more like the size of a BB and it is perfect....

 

[geekapproved]

I just reseated my cpu cooler twice the other day and found that a pea-sized bead was way too much. My final paste application was more like the size of a BB and it is perfect....

That's great, what does that have to do with this post again?? Were you even using AS5? Is that what the directions said?

 

[majin ssj eric]

Well of course. Its just hard to gauge the actual amount you are using in this particular application....

 

[axipher]

@JamesAllen:

If you plan to run the CPU at stock speeds, the stock thermal paste that is pre-applied to the heat sink is more than adequate. As long as you didn't get it dirty or anything, a little bit of dirt/oil/dust mixed in with the thermal paste can make a difference. Also verify that you have good case airflow as well, that always help.

 

[JamesAllen]

Best answer selected by JamesAllen.

 

[JamesAllen]

Thanks for everyone's help (except GeekApproved who just implied I was disabled and didn't help in the least). I decided to stick with the the pre-applied paste for now and will consider new paste and a new cooler if I OC in the future.