Thermal Grizzly launches Minus Pad High Compression and Extreme 2
When it comes to ensuring optimal cooling for your CPU or GPU, the importance of using a quality heat sink alongside thermal paste or another intermediary component cannot be overstated. Without thermal paste, effective cooling would be nearly impossible, unless you have a component that generates minimal heat—though even then, performance would still be limited. Moreover, thermal paste can dry out over time, leading to significantly higher temperatures. While purchasing thermal paste regularly can feel cumbersome, there are alternatives available. One such option is thermal pads, and recently, Thermal Grizzly has introduced its new Minus Pad Extreme 2 with enhanced thermal conductivity and the Minus Pad High Compression designed specifically for GPUs.
Typically, thermal paste is included with air coolers and liquid cooling solutions, which alleviates concerns about having to purchase it separately. However, issues arise when it runs out or when it’s time for a replacement after years of use. For many, the task of applying new thermal paste can feel daunting—whether due to procrastination, a lack of knowledge, or fear of making mistakes. This is where thermal pads present a viable solution.
Thermal Grizzly launches the Minus Pad Extreme 2 with superior thermal conductivity
Thermal pads have effectively addressed the challenges associated with thermal paste. Contrary to the common misconception that thermal pads are less effective, they can perform remarkably well. For instance, the Xingu GPE-01 thermal pad made of graphene can outperform decent thermal paste by nearly 5 degrees Celsius. Given that a lesser-known Chinese brand can achieve such results, the capabilities of a reputable brand like Thermal Grizzly are certainly noteworthy. Known for its high-quality thermal pastes, liquid metal, and now thermal pads, Thermal Grizzly has unveiled two new offerings: the Minus Pad Extreme 2 and the Minus Pad High Compression.
The Minus Pad Extreme 2 boasts exceptional thermal conductivity, making it ideal for components with high power consumption. This pad features a reduced thermal interface resistance and a higher concentration of thermally conductive particles compared to its predecessor. Additionally, the Minus Pad Extreme 2 conforms better to surfaces and is electrically non-conductive, despite its high conductivity.
The Minus Pad High Compression: Optimal for GPUs with water blocks
Regarding size, the Minus Pad Extreme 2 is available in two dimensions: 120 mm x 20 mm and 100 mm x 100 mm. Users can choose from various thicknesses: 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm, depending on the application and requirements. On the other hand, the Minus Pad High Compression is specifically designed for GPUs.
The best way to utilize it is in conjunction with a custom liquid cooling setup featuring a water block for the graphics card, as recommended by Thermal Grizzly. This pad offers increased compressibility, good thermal conductivity, is electrically non-conductive, and is easy to handle. The available size for the Minus Pad High Compression is 120 x 100 mm, with thickness options of 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, and 5 mm.
Benefits of using thermal pads over thermal paste
Thermal pads provide several advantages over traditional thermal paste, making them an attractive option for many users:
- Ease of use: No need for messy application processes.
- Longevity: Thermal pads can last longer without drying out.
- Consistency: They maintain performance without the risk of mishandling.
- Non-conductive: Reduced risk of damaging components due to electrical conductivity.
- Effective cooling: High-quality pads can outperform thermal paste in certain scenarios.
Comparative analysis: Thermal paste vs. thermal pads
To better understand the differences between thermal paste and thermal pads, here's a brief comparison:
| Feature | Thermal Paste | Thermal Pads |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Messy, requires precision | Simple, peel and stick |
| Durability | Can dry out over time | Long-lasting |
| Thermal Conductivity | Variable, depending on quality | Consistent, high-quality performance |
| Electrical Conductivity | Conductive, risk of short-circuits | Non-conductive, safer option |
| Cost | Generally lower | Typically more expensive |
Real-world applications and feedback
Users have reported positive experiences with Thermal Grizzly's new thermal pads. Many find them particularly useful in high-performance setups where cooling is critical:
- High-end gaming rigs benefit from the enhanced cooling capabilities.
- Overclocking enthusiasts appreciate the consistent temperatures.
- Custom liquid cooling builds report improved thermal management.
For a visual comparison between thermal pads and thermal paste, check out this video:
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