Do I need thermal paste?

[Edward Wokhands]

So I'm finally upgrading to an i7-3770k and am not sure what comes with it. Should I buy some thermal paste or isn't that needed anymore?

I'm using an i5-3340 at the moment so would I have to use the fan that comes with the i7 or could I just use the i5 one?

If I have to buy paste do you have any tips on applying it?

Thanks!

 

[USAFRet]

Thermal pate is needed between the CPU and whatever fan thing attaches to it.
Some coolers come with it preapplied, some come with a tube that you have to apply yourself.

But it is needed.

 

[Entomber]

1. if you're buying the boxed processor it will come with a stock heatsink that may have thermal paste pre-applied. If not, you will have to apply it yourself.
2. If you're planning on overclocking this processor, you will probably want to pick up an aftermarket CPU cooler, which usually also comes with thermal paste either pre-applied or included in the box.
3. To apply thermal paste, put a small drop on the middle of the heatsink, then place the heatsink on the CPU. It's as simple as that - don't put too much, though.

 

[Edward Wokhands]

Thanks. I'll buy some anyway just in case. I'll probably end up needing it eventually anyway.