Thermal paste plays a crucial role in cooling computer processors, and Alphacool’s Eisfrost Extreme Liquid Metal has emerged as a top performer in recent tests. Tom’s Hardware ranked Alphacool’s Eisfrost Extreme as the best-performing thermal paste in their comprehensive evaluation of 90 different pastes. This test had all the main players from Thermaltake to Arctic and Thermal Grizzly; and hilariously included some fun items as well including Kroger Gum Protection Toothpaste and Burger King Ranch Sauce. For Alphacool to take the top position is a real feat for them given how competitive this space has been.
The thermal compound market offers many options for PC builders and enthusiasts. Choosing the right paste can significantly impact a system’s cooling efficiency. Alphacool’s Eisfrost Extreme stands out for its exceptional heat transfer properties.
PC users looking to maximize their cooling performance may want to consider this high-performing thermal paste. Its effectiveness in dissipating heat from CPUs and GPUs can lead to lower temperatures and potentially improved system stability.
Alphacool Eisfrost Extreme: The New Champion of Thermal Paste
In the never-ending quest for cooler PC temperatures, thermal paste plays a crucial role. And according to recent testing by Tom’s Hardware, a new champion has emerged: Alphacool’s Eisfrost Extreme. This liquid metal thermal paste has taken the top spot, outperforming even some of the most popular and established brands.
Why Eisfrost Extreme Reigns Supreme
Tom’s Hardware put a wide range of thermal pastes through rigorous testing, and Eisfrost Extreme consistently delivered the lowest temperatures. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Liquid Metal Composition: Eisfrost Extreme is made of a mixture of metals like gallium and indium. These metals have exceptional thermal conductivity, allowing them to transfer heat away from your CPU or GPU more efficiently than traditional pastes.
- Superior Cooling Performance: In Tom’s Hardware’s tests, Eisfrost Extreme consistently outperformed other top-tier thermal pastes, including those with similar liquid metal compositions. This translates to lower temperatures and potentially higher clock speeds for your components.
- Surprisingly Easy Application: Despite being liquid metal, Eisfrost Extreme is relatively easy to apply. It comes with a spreader and cleaning wipes to ensure a smooth and mess-free process.
- Competitive Pricing: While liquid metal pastes tend to be more expensive than traditional options, Eisfrost Extreme is competitively priced compared to other high-performance compounds.
Important Considerations for Liquid Metal
While Eisfrost Extreme offers exceptional performance, it’s important to be aware of a few things before you make the switch:
- Electrical Conductivity: Liquid metal is electrically conductive. This means you need to be extremely careful during application to avoid spills that could damage your components.
- Compatibility with Heatsinks: Liquid metal is not recommended for direct contact with aluminum heatsinks, as it can cause corrosion over time. It’s best suited for copper or nickel-plated heatsinks.
Eisfrost Extreme vs. the Competition
| Feature | Alphacool Eisfrost Extreme | Traditional Thermal Paste |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Liquid metal (gallium, indium) | Silicone or ceramic based |
| Thermal Conductivity | Very High | Moderate |
| Application | Requires more care | Generally easier to apply |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
| Performance | Top-tier cooling | Good for everyday use |
Is Eisfrost Extreme Right for You?
If you’re looking for the absolute best thermal paste and are comfortable working with liquid metal, Alphacool’s Eisfrost Extreme is an excellent choice based on Tom’s Hardware’s findings. It delivers exceptional cooling performance, which can be especially beneficial for overclocking or demanding workloads. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option or prefer a simpler application process, traditional thermal pastes are still a viable choice for everyday use.
Key Takeaways
- Alphacool’s Eisfrost Extreme outperformed 89 other thermal pastes in rigorous testing
- High-quality thermal paste can significantly improve CPU and GPU cooling efficiency
- Selecting the right thermal compound is crucial for optimal computer performance
Overview of Thermal Paste Performance Testing
When it comes to keeping your CPU or GPU cool, thermal paste is a critical component. And in a recent showdown of thermal pastes conducted by Tom’s Hardware, a new contender has emerged victorious: Alphacool’s Eisfrost Extreme. This liquid metal thermal paste has proven itself to be the best performer, delivering exceptional cooling capabilities that surpass even some of the most popular brands on the market.
Thermal paste performance testing evaluates how effectively different compounds transfer heat from CPUs to coolers. These tests measure temperature differences and thermal conductivity to determine which pastes perform best for cooling computer components.
Importance of Thermal Compound in Overclocking
Thermal paste plays a crucial role in overclocking by improving heat dissipation from CPUs. Better heat transfer allows processors to run at higher speeds without overheating.
High-quality thermal compounds can lower CPU temperatures by several degrees compared to low-end pastes. This temperature reduction gives overclockers more headroom to push clock speeds higher.
Liquid metal thermal pastes often provide the best thermal conductivity for extreme overclocking. However, they require careful application due to their electrical conductivity.
Methodology of Tom’s Hardware Test Bench
Tom’s Hardware uses a standardized test bench to evaluate thermal paste performance. The setup includes:
- A CPU with a known heat output
- A high-end air cooler
- Precise temperature sensors
- Controlled ambient conditions
Tests are run multiple times to ensure consistency. The bench applies a fixed heat load to the CPU and measures the temperature difference between the chip and cooler.
This methodology allows for fair comparisons between different thermal compounds under identical conditions. It eliminates variables that could skew results.
Benchmarking Thermal Conductivity
Thermal conductivity, measured in watts per meter-kelvin (W/mK), indicates how well a paste transfers heat. Higher W/mK values generally correlate with better cooling performance.
Thermal paste testing involves:
- Applying the compound to a test chip
- Running stress tests to generate heat
- Measuring temperatures at various points
- Calculating thermal resistance
Top-performing pastes typically achieve thermal conductivity ratings above 8 W/mK. Liquid metal compounds can exceed 70 W/mK, offering superior heat transfer for high-end cooling solutions.
Benchmarks also consider factors like ease of application and long-term stability to provide a comprehensive performance assessment.
Comparative Analysis of Leading Thermal Pastes
Thermal paste performance varies significantly among top brands. Recent tests reveal surprising results, challenging long-held assumptions about which products offer the best heat dissipation for CPUs.
Alphacool’s Eisfrost Extreme Performance
Alphacool’s Eisfrost Extreme has emerged as a top performer in recent thermal paste tests. This newcomer outperformed many established brands in thermal conductivity tests.
The paste showed excellent heat dissipation properties, maintaining lower CPU temperatures under load. Its consistency allows for easy application, ensuring even coverage across the CPU surface.
Eisfrost Extreme’s longevity also impressed testers. It maintained its performance over extended periods, reducing the need for frequent reapplications.
Legacy Thermal Paste Testing
Traditional thermal pastes like Arctic MX-4 and Noctua NT-H2 have long been favorites among PC enthusiasts. These pastes have undergone extensive testing over the years, providing a baseline for performance comparisons.
MX-4 remains popular due to its:
- Ease of application
- Long-term stability
- Competitive pricing
Noctua NT-H2 improved upon its predecessor with:
- Higher thermal conductivity
- Better spreading properties
- Longer shelf life
Legacy testing methods often focused on temperature differences at stock CPU speeds. Modern tests now include overclocked scenarios for more comprehensive results.
High-End Competitors: Thermal Grizzly and Others
Thermal Grizzly’s Kryonaut has been a top choice for enthusiasts seeking maximum cooling performance. Its high thermal conductivity makes it ideal for overclocked systems.
Other notable competitors include:
- Gelid GC-Extreme: Known for its consistency and ease of application
- Prolimatech PK-3: Offers a good balance of performance and affordability
Liquid metal compounds like Thermal Grizzly Conductonaut provide the highest thermal conductivity. However, their conductive nature limits their use to specific applications.
Recent tests show that some newer pastes are closing the gap with these high-end options. This competition drives innovation in the thermal paste market, benefiting consumers with improved cooling solutions.
