The 7 Best Thermal Paste Under $20 of 2026

ARCTIC MX-4 thermal paste is designed for anyone building or upgrading a PC, from novice assemblers to hardcore overclockers needing reliable CPU and GPU cooling. This 4g tube, complete with a spatula, fills microscopic surface imperfections on chips and coolers using carbon microparticles, delivering high thermal conductivity for rapid heat transfer.

In real-world use, MX-4 excels at keeping temperatures low during demanding tasks, thanks to its 31,600 Poise viscosity that spreads smoothly without drying out quickly. The non-conductive, metal-free formula adds safety by avoiding short circuits or corrosion, making it a go-to for VGA cards and processors alike. Its wide -50 to 150°C operating range ensures stability in various builds.

Build quality shines through consistent performance and an authenticity check feature to confirm originality. While application demands attention to detail to minimize air bubbles, the included tools simplify the process for most users.

Potential drawbacks include the modest tube size for frequent rebuilder and the need for practice on spreading compared to pre-applied pads. Overall, MX-4 offers unbeatable value for safe, effective cooling with a strong verdict: highly recommended for superior thermal performance without risks.

Density: 2.50 g/cm³

Viscosity: 31,600 Poise

Volume Resistivity: 3.8 x 10¹³ Ω-cm

Continuous Use Temperature: -50~150 °C

Colour: Grey

Content: 4 g (includes spatula)

ARCTIC MX-4 thermal paste is designed for anyone upgrading or building PCs, consoles like PS4 and Xbox, or pushing hardware limits through overclocking. This 4g tube delivers premium performance via carbon microparticles that fill tiny surface imperfections on CPUs and GPUs, ensuring rapid and efficient heat dissipation.

Standout features include its very high thermal conductivity, non-conductive properties that prevent electrical shorts, and ease of use even for novices. Real-world benefits shine in maintaining lower temperatures during intensive gaming or rendering, with a viscosity of 31,600 Poise making it spread smoothly without air pockets. It withstands -50 to 150°C continuously, proving reliable across varied setups.

Build quality emphasizes consistency, with the same proven formula in evolved packaging and an authenticity check to avoid counterfeits. While the small 4g quantity suits single uses and lacks a spatula in this variant, its metal-free composition avoids corrosion risks common in liquid metals.

Minor drawbacks include the modest volume and absence of extras like a spatula, but these do not detract from its core strengths. Overall, ARCTIC MX-4 earns top marks for safe, durable cooling that enthusiasts and beginners can trust for years.

Density: 2.50 g/cm³

Viscosity: 31,600 Poise

Volume Resistivity: 3.8 x 10¹³ Ω-cm

Continuous Use Temperature: -50~150 °C

Color: Grey

Non-conductive, metal-free formula for safe application on all processors.

BSFF BS-139 thermal paste is a carbon-based compound designed for PC enthusiasts, gamers, and overclockers who need reliable cooling for CPUs, GPUs, and other processors. Packaged in a convenient 1.8g tube with a toolkit, it targets users upgrading heatsinks or building custom rigs, offering high thermal conductivity without the risks of metallic alternatives.

Standout features include 13.9W/m.k conductivity from carbon micro-particles, enabling rapid heat dissipation even under heavy loads. Real-world performance shines in maintaining lower temperatures during gaming or overclocking, outperforming many silicon-based pastes. Its non-conductive nature adds safety, preventing damage to pins or circuits, while the durable formula lasts at least five years without drying out or losing efficacy.

Build quality emphasizes ease and sustainability: the paste has ideal viscosity for clean spreading, aided by the included toolkit, and updated packaging minimizes environmental impact. Application is straightforward for beginners, though precision helps avoid excess.

Potential drawbacks include the small tube size, suitable mainly for single-use scenarios, and the need to clean prior paste thoroughly for optimal results. It may not match liquid metal extremes but excels in everyday reliability.

Verdict: BSFF BS-139 delivers top-tier performance safely and durably, making it a smart choice for most cooling needs. Highly recommended for hassle-free upgrades.

Thermal Conductivity: 13.9W/m.k

Composition: Carbon micro-particles, metal-free and non-conductive

Net Weight: 1.8g

Includes: Toolkit for installation

Durability: Up to 5 years

Compatibility: CPUs, GPUs, ICs, all coolers

Choose BSFF BS-139 if you prioritize safety and ease over extreme conductivity. Ideal for first-time builders or routine maintenance. For multiple PCs, consider the 5.5g option. Always clean surfaces with isopropyl alcohol before applying a pea-sized dot.

Compare to thermal pads for uneven surfaces, but paste offers better contact and performance on flat heatsinks.

The GENNEL 2-Pack GT-1 Silver CPU Thermal Paste is a high-performance thermal compound designed for gamers, PC builders, and electronics enthusiasts needing reliable cooling for CPUs, GPUs, PS4, PS5, laptops, and heatsinks. Each 1g tube provides enough paste for standard applications, making it ideal for upgrades or maintenance tasks.

Standout features include ultra-low thermal impedance for efficient heat transfer, ensuring lower operating temperatures and better system stability during intensive use. The non-conductive, flame-retardant, and non-volatile formula eliminates risks of short circuits, corrosion, or damage to sensitive components, while the wide -50°C to 240°C operating range handles extreme conditions effortlessly.

Build quality shines in its viscous balance, allowing easy spreading and cleanup, especially with the included spatulas, cleaning wipes, and finger cots. This kit turns a tricky task into a straightforward process, even for novices following the simple four-step instructions: clean, apply, spread, and install.

Potential drawbacks include the modest tube size, which suits occasional use but may need multiples for heavy workloads, and the absence of a precise thermal conductivity rating. Still, the stable carbon-silicon compound promises durability without drying out.

Overall, GENNEL GT-1 offers exceptional value for safe, effective cooling. It's a smart choice for anyone prioritizing performance and ease without complexity.

Brand: GENNEL

Model: GT-1 Silver

Quantity: 2-Pack (1g each)

Composition: Carbon and silicon compounds

Temperature Range: -50°C to 240°C (-58°F to 464°F)

Properties: Non-conductive, non-volatile, flame-retardant

Kit Includes: Thermal paste, spatulas, cleaning wipes, finger cots

Applications: CPU, GPU, PS4, PS5, PC, laptop coolers, IC, LED, heatsinks

Step 1: Clean the CPU or heatsink surface thoroughly using the provided wipes.

Step 2: Apply a small amount of GT-1 thermal paste to the center of the CPU or heat source.

Step 3: Use the spatula or finger cot to spread evenly for optimal contact.

Step 4: Install the cooler and secure it firmly.

This non-conductive paste ensures safe handling and maximum heat transfer benefits.

Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut 1g is a top-tier thermal paste tailored for overclockers, gamers, and anyone pushing CPUs, GPUs, PS5, Xbox, or other high-performance hardware to the limit. Optimized with nano-aluminum and zinc oxide, it excels in extreme cooling scenarios, filling microscopic surface gaps for superior heat transfer and lower operating temperatures.

Standout features include its exceptional thermal conductivity, viscosity of 130-170 Pa·s for controlled spreading, and a spatula for precise application. Real-world performance shines in overclocking, with users reporting significant temperature reductions without curing or degradation up to 350°C. It's electrically non-conductive, ensuring safe use on sensitive components.

Build quality is premium, with a protective syringe that blocks UV and environmental damage, allowing storage for years post-opening. Application demands clean surfaces and slow spreading—about 3 seconds per motion on standard CPUs—for optimal results, but the included tools make it user-friendly.

Potential drawbacks include the need for careful technique if the paste is cold, and no standardized thermal conductivity listing due to variable real-world factors. Overall, Kryonaut delivers unmatched reliability for enthusiasts.

Verdict: A must-buy for overclockers seeking the best cooling; its performance justifies the precision required.

Operating Temperature: -250°C to 350°C

Density: 3.7 g/cm³

Electrical Conductivity: 0 pS/m

Viscosity: 130 - 170 Pa·s

Available in 1g size with spatula for easy application.

Clean CPU/GPU surface thoroughly using TG Remove or wipes. Apply small amount at room temperature. Spread slowly with spatula—3 seconds per motion for even coverage. Store in original syringe to protect from UV and environment.

Avoid grease, cold paste, or rushed spreading to prevent issues.

The JLJ Thermal Paste is a carbon-based thermal compound ideal for PC enthusiasts, gamers, and console modders needing reliable heat management on CPUs, GPUs, PS4/PS5 systems, and laptops. Its 4g size targets single or small-scale applications, delivering high-performance cooling without the risks associated with conductive alternatives.

Standout features include exceptional thermal conductivity from carbon particles, surpassing liquid metal in safety and ease, alongside a wide -50°C to 200°C range for stable operation during intense gaming sessions. The non-conductive, metal-free formula eliminates short-circuit dangers, while its durability promises at least 6 years of effectiveness, reducing reapplication needs.

Build quality shines with perfect consistency for smooth spreading, aided by an included toolkit that makes it accessible for beginners. Real-world performance excels in high-demand scenarios, maintaining cool temperatures under load across diverse devices.

Potential drawbacks include the modest 4g quantity, which might not suffice for bulk use, and the need for meticulous surface prep. Overall, it offers outstanding value for safe, long-term cooling.

Verdict: Highly recommended for anyone building or upgrading systems seeking dependable, user-friendly thermal paste that balances performance, safety, and longevity.

Clean the CPU surface thoroughly to remove old paste. Apply a pea-sized amount of JLJ Thermal Paste to the center.

Spread evenly using the included toolkit tools for uniform coverage. Avoid over-application to prevent overflow.

Attach the cooling system firmly and test temperatures under load for verification.

Net Weight: 4g

Composition: Carbon-based

Temperature Range: -50°C to 200°C

Conductivity: High performance, non-conductive

Durability: Minimum 6 years

Compatibility: CPUs, GPUs, PS4/PS5, laptops, all coolers

The ARCTIC MX-6 is a high-performance thermal paste designed for PC enthusiasts, gamers, overclockers, and console modders seeking reliable cooling solutions. This 2g syringe of carbon filler-based compound excels in transferring heat from CPUs, GPUs, laptops, and console processors to heatsinks, making it perfect for builds demanding low temperatures and longevity.

Standout features include 20% lower thermal resistance compared to the popular MX-4, delivering immediate peak efficiency without burn-in time. Its silicone gel carrier ensures smooth distribution under even pressure, while non-drying, non-bleeding properties combat pump-out effects. Real-world performance shines in direct-die cooling for graphics cards and consoles, maintaining consistent results over time thanks to high viscosity and a -50 to 150°C operating range.

Build quality reflects ARCTIC's 20 years of expertise, with a resealable syringe for easy, mess-free dispensing and an authenticity check to verify genuineness. The paste is fully non-conductive, avoiding risks like short circuits or corrosion common in liquid metals.

Drawbacks include the modest 2g volume, which suits single or occasional uses but may require repurchasing for frequent builders, and the need for precise application technique to maximize benefits.

Overall, ARCTIC MX-6 earns top marks for performance, safety, and versatility, making it a smart upgrade for anyone prioritizing cooler, stable systems without gimmicky additives.

Key Specs:

• Thermal Conductivity: Very high (20% better than MX-4)
• Specific Gravity: 2.60 g/cm³
• Continuous Use Temperature: -50~150°C
• Volume Resistivity: 1.8 x 10¹² Ω-cm
• Viscosity: 45,000 Poise
• Net Weight: 2g
• Non-Conductive: Yes