Noctua NT-H2 Thermal Paste Review: Is This the Ultimate CPU Cooler?

Looking for a high-quality thermal paste that delivers exceptional performance? Noctua’s NT-H2 thermal compound has earned a stellar reputation among PC builders and enthusiasts, and for good reason.

This 3.5g tube provides enough thermal paste for multiple applications, making it a cost-effective solution for those who frequently build or maintain computers. The package includes three cleaning wipes, which are a thoughtful addition for removing old thermal compound before applying fresh paste.

With an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 10,000 customers, the NT-H2 clearly delivers on its promises. Users consistently report excellent thermal performance, often noting temperature improvements over other pastes on the market. The non-conductive formula provides peace of mind when applying it to sensitive components.

The paste spreads easily and maintains its consistency over time, which is crucial for long-term cooling performance. Noctua has improved upon their previous formulation with this version, resulting in even better heat transfer capabilities.

Bottom Line

For anyone building a new PC or upgrading their cooling solution, the Noctua NT-H2 represents an excellent value proposition.

Its proven performance, included cleaning wipes, and reasonable price point make it a standout choice in the thermal compound market.

Click here to purchase the Noctua NT-H2 and improve your system’s cooling today!

Overview of Noctua NT-H2 3.5g Thermal Paste

Thermal compounds play a crucial role in efficient heat transfer between CPUs and cooling solutions. The NT-H2 represents Noctua’s next-generation thermal paste, building upon the success of their previous formulations. This 3.5g package includes three cleaning wipes for convenient application and removal.

Released in January 2019, this premium thermal compound has earned its place as one of the top-rated options available, currently ranking #3 in Silicon Grease on Amazon. Users have overwhelmingly praised its performance, reflected in its impressive 4.8/5 star rating from over 10,000 reviews.

The NT-H2 is compatible with desktop systems using air cooling methods. Its compact dimensions (6.18″L x 2.76″W x 1.18″H) and lightweight design (0.141 ounces) make it easy to store and handle. While manufactured in Taiwan, Noctua maintains its reputation for quality control and performance across all its cooling products.

Enhanced Cooling Performance

The NT-H2 thermal paste delivers significant temperature reductions compared to its predecessor. Users report CPU temperature drops of 2-3°C on average, with some seeing improvements up to 5°C under heavy loads. This improved thermal conductivity translates to better heat transfer between processors and cooling solutions.

The paste’s fine-tuned consistency allows it to spread easily, creating a thin, uniform layer that maximizes cooling efficiency. It performs particularly well in high-performance computing scenarios where effective heat dissipation is crucial.

The formula maintains its performance over time without the “pump-out” effect common in lesser compounds. This consistency means your cooling performance won’t degrade significantly between applications. While results vary based on individual system components and environmental factors, the NT-H2 consistently outperforms many competing thermal compounds in independent temperature testing.

Ease of Application

Thermal paste application can make or break a cooling solution, and the NT-H2 excels in this department. The paste has an ideal consistency that strikes the perfect balance between being too runny and too thick. It spreads evenly across CPU and GPU surfaces without much effort.

Users report that the NT-H2 is non-sticky and easy to work with, allowing for precise application using various methods—dot, line, or spread. The included cleaning wipes are particularly helpful for removing old paste before application, saving users from purchasing separate isopropyl alcohol.

The 3.5g tube provides sufficient paste for multiple applications (approximately 5-8 uses depending on CPU size), making it economical for those who frequently build or maintain systems. No special skills are required for application, making this thermal paste suitable for both beginners and experienced builders.

Long-Term Stability

Thermal paste stability over time remains a crucial factor for PC enthusiasts who don’t want to constantly reapply their cooling solution. The NT-H2 delivers exceptional longevity compared to many competing products on the market. Many users report consistent performance without degradation for extended periods.

Unlike some thermal compounds that dry out quickly, this formula maintains its thermal conductivity properties for up to three years in typical usage scenarios. This means fewer maintenance sessions and more consistent CPU temperatures over time.

The non-conductive nature of the paste also adds to its stability, as there’s no risk of electrical shorts developing over time due to paste migration. For those building systems intended to run for years without maintenance, the NT-H2 represents an excellent investment in long-term thermal stability.

Included Cleaning Wipes

The NT-H2 thermal paste package comes with three cleaning wipes that prove quite valuable during installation or reapplication processes. These wipes are specifically designed to remove old thermal compound residue effectively from CPU and GPU surfaces. Each wipe is individually packaged to maintain freshness and prevent premature drying. The inclusion of these cleaning wipes eliminates the need to purchase separate alcohol wipes or cleaning solutions, saving both time and money for users.

The wipes contain enough moisture to dissolve stubborn thermal paste without leaving behind lint or residue. They’re sized appropriately for cleaning standard processors and heat spreaders without waste. This thoughtful addition demonstrates Noctua’s understanding of the complete application process, not just the thermal paste itself.

Pros and Cons

When building or upgrading a PC, thermal paste is a crucial component that often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. The NT-H2 represents Noctua’s second-generation thermal compound, offering improvements over their already popular NT-H1 formula.

Pros

• Superior thermal performance that can lower CPU temperatures by 1-2°C compared to generic options
• Easy application with smooth, consistent spread that doesn’t require special techniques
• Excellent value with 3.5g providing enough material for 5-8 applications
• Non-conductive formula eliminates the risk of electrical shorts if accidentally applied to components
• Includes cleaning wipes for convenient removal of old thermal paste
• Long-term stability without drying out or degrading over time

Cons

• Higher price than basic thermal pastes, though competitive with other premium options
• No application tool included, unlike some competing products
• Limited color options (only gray) for those concerned with aesthetics
• Requires proper application technique to achieve optimal results
• Small improvements of only 1-2°C might not justify the cost for budget-conscious builders

The NT-H2 paste sits among the top-tier thermal compounds available today. While the temperature differences between premium pastes are minimal (often within 1°C of each other), the inclusion of cleaning wipes and reliable performance make this a solid choice for both enthusiasts and everyday users.

Customer Reviews

Users rave about the NT-H2 thermal paste, with an impressive 4.8/5 star rating from over 10,000 reviewers. Many highlight its excellent value, noting that the 3.5g tube provides enough paste for 5-8 applications.

Performance-wise, reviewers consistently mention temperature reductions of 1-2 degrees compared to generic pastes. Tech enthusiasts point out that the NT-H2 performs within the top tier of thermal compounds available today.

Users appreciate the practical additions, particularly the included isopropyl alcohol cleaning wipes. The non-conductive formula gives builders peace of mind during application.

Several reviews mention how easy the paste is to apply, describing it as smooth-spreading and user-friendly. While some note it’s priced higher than basic options, most feel the performance and included accessories justify the cost.

Safety and Reliability

Thermal pastes need to balance performance with safety, and the NT-H2 excels in this area. This compound is non-conductive, eliminating risks of electrical shorts if it accidentally spills onto other components during application. This feature provides significant peace of mind for both novice builders and experienced enthusiasts.

The included cleaning wipes are alcohol-based and designed specifically for safely removing old thermal paste without damaging sensitive components. These wipes make maintenance much easier and more reliable than using household products.

Noctua’s thermal paste maintains its consistency and performance over time without drying out quickly or requiring frequent reapplication. Users report stable temperatures even after extended use periods, indicating good long-term reliability. The secure packaging also ensures the paste doesn’t dry out before use, maintaining its optimal properties until needed.

Conclusion

After thorough evaluation, the NT-H2 stands out as a top-tier thermal compound in today’s market. Its impressive temperature performance puts it within the elite group of thermal pastes, typically offering 1-2 degrees better cooling than many competitors. The included cleaning wipes add genuine value to the package, making installation and eventual replacement more convenient.

For system builders and PC enthusiasts seeking reliable thermal performance without breaking the bank, this Noctua paste delivers exceptional value. With enough material for 5-8 applications in each tube, it proves economical for multiple builds or upgrades. The non-conductive formula also provides peace of mind during application.

While thermal paste differences are typically minimal among premium options, the NT-H2’s combination of performance, quantity, accessories, and price point makes it a highly recommended choice for anyone looking to optimize their computer’s cooling efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Thermal paste plays a crucial role in computer cooling performance, and choosing the right one can make a difference in your system’s temperatures. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about the NT-H2 paste.

How does Noctua NT-H2 thermal paste compare to Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut?

Both NT-H2 and Kryonaut are premium thermal compounds favored by enthusiasts. NT-H2 offers comparable thermal performance to Kryonaut but typically at a lower price point. While Kryonaut has a slightly higher thermal conductivity rating, real-world temperature differences between the two are often minimal, usually within 1-2°C. NT-H2 has the added advantage of including alcohol cleaning wipes, which Kryonaut doesn’t package with their product.

What are the differences between Noctua NT-H1 and NT-H2 thermal compounds?

NT-H2 is Noctua’s newer formula that improves upon the original NT-H1. The NT-H2 offers slightly better thermal performance, typically reducing temperatures by 1-2°C compared to its predecessor. It has a different consistency that some users find easier to apply. NT-H2 also has improved long-term stability, meaning it maintains its performance longer before needing reapplication. Both versions are non-conductive and safe to use with all CPU coolers.

Can Noctua NT-H2 thermal paste be considered non-conductive?

Yes, NT-H2 is non-conductive and non-capacitive, making it safe to use even if small amounts accidentally get on other components. This provides peace of mind during installation, especially for beginners or when working with exposed components like GPUs. The non-conductive property eliminates the risk of electrical shorts that can happen with some metal-based thermal compounds.

What is the thermal conductivity rating for Noctua NT-H2 paste?

Noctua doesn’t publicly disclose the exact thermal conductivity rating for NT-H2 in W/mK (watts per meter-kelvin). However, based on independent testing and comparative analyses, it performs in the range of high-end thermal pastes, suggesting its thermal conductivity is comparable to other premium options on the market. Its performance in real-world applications demonstrates competitive heat transfer capabilities regardless of the undisclosed specific rating.

How well does Noctua NT-H2 perform according to user reviews on Reddit?

Reddit users generally praise NT-H2 for its consistent performance and value. Many discussions highlight temperature drops of 3-5°C compared to stock thermal pastes that come pre-applied on coolers. The community particularly appreciates NT-H2’s ease of application and the included cleaning wipes. A common sentiment across Reddit is that while slightly more expensive pastes might exist, the performance difference doesn’t justify the price premium, making NT-H2 a sensible choice for most builds.

What has been the user feedback on Noctua NT-H2 thermal paste on Amazon?

Amazon reviews for NT-H2 are overwhelmingly positive, with an impressive 4.8-star average rating from over 10,000 reviewers. Users consistently mention several key benefits:

• Temperature improvements: Many report 1-3°C lower temperatures compared to other pastes they’ve used
• Value proposition: Reviewers appreciate getting multiple applications from one tube
• Included cleaning wipes: The alcohol wipes are frequently mentioned as a thoughtful addition
• Ease of application: Users find the consistency makes for straightforward application
• Reliability: Long-term performance without degradation is commonly highlighted

Some international reviewers note they’ve seen temperature improvements even compared to other premium thermal compounds. The consensus among Amazon reviewers is that NT-H2 delivers professional-grade cooling performance at a reasonable price point.