First time build - i5 2500K.. Do I need thermal paste?

[dmarquand]

I'm following Newegg's updated Youtube tutorials and the guide doesn't use thermal paste. But i've heard of people using it.. should I?

CPU will be under strain because the user will use Revit 3D and Photoshop several hours a day.

 

[DJDeCiBeL]

Using the stock HSF? If so, it's pre-applied.

 

[bavman]

If your straining the cpu a lot its probably better to get an aftermarket cooler as the stock one is pretty poor. Most heat sinks come with thermal paste for your to apply. If it has grey stuff on the buttom of the cooler where it makes contact with the CPU then it's pre-applied.