Thermal paste?

[Zakter]

Do I need to buy Thermal paste with a retail cpu/fan? (core 2 duo e8400) No overclocking will be required.

 

[rhoel]

They have some already preapplied to the heatsink, so you don't need to.

 

[Domllama]

yah most will come preapplied..I would definately remove this (with rubbing alcohol and Qtips) and apply a better heat conductor..like Artic Silver 5

 

[fantomau]

+1 for removing the thermal pad and applying AC5.

 

[engiNURD]

The thermal paste that comes with Intel Retail HSFs is good enough if you're using the Retail HSF. They've greatly improved their TIM since the Prescott days. Intel hasn't used thermal pads since pre-Prescott.

If you're using an aftermarket HSF, go with AS5 or Arctic Cooling MX-2.

 

[aingeal]

+1 for AS5 on any HSF