Does Thermal Paste Need to Be Set? | Know the Real Fact!

Thermal paste is a paste-like material that does not dry. Leave the thermal paste to fill the gap between the processor and the heatsink. You can use the PC immediately after applying thermal paste after you assemble the PC or replace the heatsink. Some people prefer to wait a few hours for the thermal paste to set, but there is no evidence that this has any noticeable effect.

If you think you have used your thermal paste correctly, you can turn your PC right away. The heating and cooling cycle spread the paste better (this does not mean that it will sort naturally under load, just that a slight expansion due to heat will help ensure good distribution).

Do You Need to Let the Thermal Paste Set?

No. Thermal paste is exactly that, it remains paste-like, allowing it to fill the gaps and create an even thermal heat spread to the heatsink. The paste itself will not be enough to reduce the heat from your computer/console unless it’s a snapdragon/MediaTek SoC (in which case paste is neither good nor bad). You don’t ‘let paste dry’. you use it to ensure uniform contact between the heatsink and the processor.

Should I Wait for the Thermal Paste to Dry?

The short answer is no. Thermal paste is a paste-like material, so it does not dry out. It should be a paste so that it can fill the gap between the processor and the heatsink. In most cases, you should be fine to use it right away. If you prefer, you can wait a few hours for it to be “set up” before using the computer again. 

The only problem with this is if you don’t use enough paste or don’t apply enough paste to cover it evenly. This can still cause overheating issues.

What Is the Perfect Thermal Paste Amount to Apply to Fill the Gap?

Some thermal pastes come with instructions on how much to use. If so, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. However, in general, too much paste can be just as bad as too little paste. A thumb rule is that it should be in the amount of a pea or a bean.

Can Too Much Thermal Paste Be Bad?

Poorly applied and excess thermal paste has become a meme. The purpose of the thermal paste is to help conduct the CPU and heatsink. However, if you apply too much, there is a point where the thermal paste becomes an insulator. 

Beginners may think that applying more paste will work better, but that’s not the case. Too much can affect thermal regulation and even cause CPU overheating and damage.

Can Not-Enough Thermal Paste Be Bad?

Yes, when there is not enough thermal paste, the CPU or GPU will get hotter and might have to slow down because it would overheat and stop working.

How Long After Applying Thermal Paste Can I Turn On My Computer?

You can turn on your computer right away after you’ve applied the thermal paste. If you are confident that you applied the thermal paste correctly with enough amount, you are okay to turn on your computer right away. However, some people suggest waiting a few hours.

Conclusion

Thermal paste doesn’t need extra time to set. You can apply the thermal paste and turn your computer on right away. But you have to make sure you applied the paste properly with the right amount. If you are not confident enough, you should consult an expert in this case.