For PC builders and enthusiasts, thermal paste is a vital component in ensuring a computer runs cool and efficiently. Among the wide array of options available, two names frequently come up: Arctic Silver 5 and Arctic MX-4. Both have loyal user bases and proven track records, but which one truly stands out in terms of performance, usability, and safety?
This article compares Arctic Silver 5 and Arctic MX-4 across various aspects — thermal performance, ease of application, longevity, and safety — to determine which thermal compound is the better choice for your next PC build or maintenance project.
1. Composition and Material Differences
The first major distinction between these two thermal pastes lies in their composition:
- Arctic Silver 5: Composed of 99.9% pure silver particles along with ceramic and other materials, Arctic Silver 5 is a metal-based compound. The high silver concentration theoretically allows for better thermal conductivity but comes with caveats regarding conductivity.
- Arctic MX-4: A carbon-based thermal compound that does not include any metallic particles. This makes it completely non-electrically conductive and safer for beginners or tight component arrangements.
While both are non-capacitive, Arctic Silver 5’s metal content makes it slightly conductive, which increases the risk of short-circuits if spilled onto motherboard traces or components.
2. Thermal Conductivity and Cooling Performance
Thermal performance is arguably the most important factor when choosing a thermal paste. Here’s how the two compare in this regard:
- Arctic Silver 5: Offers a thermal conductivity rating of approximately 8.9 W/mK. This number is impressive and often contributes to slightly better peak temperatures in lab-controlled tests.
- Arctic MX-4: Rated at 8.5 W/mK. While slightly lower on paper, real-world applications often show a negligible difference — frequently within 1-2°C of Arctic Silver 5’s performance.
It’s important to note that while Arctic Silver 5 might win in theoretical conductivity, the difference is not usually noticeable in real-world settings unless under extreme overclocks or poor ambient conditions.
3. Application and Ease of Use
Anyone who has applied thermal paste knows that ease of spread and coverage play a big role in the effectiveness of a paste. Here is how each one performs in this area:
- Arctic Silver 5: This paste has a thick consistency that requires time and pressure from the CPU cooler to fully spread. It’s not the easiest to work with, especially for beginners.
- Arctic MX-4: Known for its excellent spreadability, the MX-4 applies smoothly and evenly. The consistency makes it ideal for both novice and veteran users.
With Arctic MX-4, there’s also a shorter settling period. Arctic Silver 5 recommends a “break-in” period of up to 200 hours with multiple thermal cycles for optimal performance — a disadvantage in today’s fast-paced building environment.
4. Longevity and Maintenance
Another vital aspect of thermal paste performance is longevity. How long does it last before reapplication is required?
- Arctic Silver 5: Generally lasts around 3 to 5 years. However, some users report performance degradation over time, particularly under high thermal stress environments.
- Arctic MX-4: Boasts a lifespan of up to 8 years, with minimal degradation, making it an excellent set-it-and-forget-it solution.
For users seeking stability over many years without reapplication, Arctic MX-4 takes the lead.
5. Electrical Conductivity and Safety
For inexperienced users or systems with tightly packed components, safety matters. Electrical conductivity can be an issue if paste accidentally spreads to unintended areas.
- Arctic Silver 5: Slightly electrically conductive due to silver content. While non-capacitive, caution is recommended during application.
- Arctic MX-4: Completely non-conductive and non-capacitive, significantly reducing risk in compact or DIY systems.
Because of its safety profile, Arctic MX-4 is often favored for use in laptops, consoles, and motherboards with confined spaces.
6. Price and Value
Price can also influence the choice between these two thermal pastes. While prices can fluctuate, generally the MX-4 can be found at slightly lower cost per gram compared to Arctic Silver 5.
- Arctic Silver 5: Typically priced higher per gram and often bundled in small quantities.
- Arctic MX-4: Offers better pricing, especially in larger quantities. Some versions come with included applicators which adds more value.
In terms of performance per dollar, Arctic MX-4 usually delivers a better return on investment.
7. Environmental Factors
With growing concerns about sustainability, it’s worth noting:
- Arctic MX-4: Advertises itself as environmentally friendly and halogen-free. Also free from metallic particles, making it easier to dispose of safely.
- Arctic Silver 5: Doesn’t offer specific eco-friendly advantages and contains metal compounds which may require careful disposal.
Although not an immediate concern for most users, the eco-conscious may prefer the MX-4 for its more modern and environment-friendly formulation.
Conclusion: Which One Is Better?
After comparing key factors, Arctic MX-4 emerges as the better all-around choice for most users. Here’s a summary:
- Thermal Performance: Comparable in real-world use cases.
- Ease of Application: Arctic MX-4 is user-friendly and faster to settle.
- Longevity: MX-4 lasts longer with less degradation.
- Safety: MX-4 is non-conductive and safer to use.
- Value: More cost-effective, especially in larger quantities.
While enthusiasts looking to shave off every last degree in a meticulously cooled setup might consider Arctic Silver 5, for the vast majority of builds — including gaming PCs, workstations, and laptops — Arctic MX-4 offers the perfect balance of performance, safety, and value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 1. Can Arctic Silver 5 damage my motherboard?
- If not applied carefully, it can short circuits due to its slight electrical conductivity. Use with caution.
- 2. Does Arctic MX-4 require a cure or break-in period?
- No, Arctic MX-4 offers instantly reliable thermal performance without a break-in period.
- 3. How often should I replace thermal paste?
- On average, every 3-5 years for Arctic Silver 5 and every 6-8 years for Arctic MX-4, depending on use and thermal loads.
- 4. Is one better for laptops?
- Arctic MX-4 is preferred for laptops due to its non-conductive nature and ease of application in tight spaces.
- 5. Which one is better for overclocking?
- Both perform reasonably well, but Arctic Silver 5 may provide a slight thermal edge in some overclocking scenarios. However, it’s also riskier to use.
In the final tally, Arctic MX-4 delivers outstanding practical performance, unmatched safety, and unbeatable value — making it the thermal compound of choice for most builds. However, those who aim to tweak every last bit of thermal efficiency under controlled conditions may still find value in Arctic Silver 5.
