is it necessary to Tinting the Heatsink

[nuflia]

I'm going to install new heatsink and fan, I've heard about Tinting the Heatsink, is it necessary to do it in new heatsink, does it increase the efficiency of the heatsink
is there any much benefit of doing it, and can tint be done to the processor as well.

 

[clutchc]

The Arctic Silver folks seem to think so. It is recommended in their instructions. Basically all tinting is doing is pre-filling in the microscopic pores of the metal with the TIM before applying the final dab that will spread out. It is a worthwhile procedure imho, but not mandatory. I've put together quite a few builds using AS5 with tinting and not tinting. I never noticed a difference in temps either way.

I have since moved on to using MX-4. I prefer it over AS5 for its non-conductive (electrical) properties. And the temps I get are either the same or a tiny bit better.