Question RTX 3090 VRAM Temps Hitting 100°C After Repaste – Should I Repad ASAP?

[newwbie]

Hey everyone,

So I’ve got a Gigabyte RTX 3090 that I've been using since launch. Recently, I noticed the hotspot temps were getting dangerously high (~102°C) while gaming and even spiking during something as simple as watching YouTube videos in fullscreen. I decided to repaste the GPU, which brought the hotspot temps down to a much safer ~70°C under load now – so that part seems resolved.
However, I’ve been monitoring the VRAM (Memory Junction) temps using HWInfo64, and they still regularly hit 100°C during heavier games like MH wilds. For lighter games like Dota 2, the VRAM temps stay in the 70-80°C range, which seems fine.

I had the GPU repasted by a mechanic, and he checked the pads, saying they were in good condition . I even checked them myself – no visible damage or drying out. But I’ve heard that even decent-looking stock pads on 3090s can just lack the thermal conductivity needed for these heat-heavy cards.
The card hasn't crashed yet post-repaste, but I did experience a black screen once (screen went dark, fans ramped up to 100%, but audio continued). Not sure if that’s directly related.
Basically im asking is should i change the Pads or its okay ?
And if so what would you recommened ?

 

[thestryker]

While they are notoriously hot that's outside of the range you should be seeing with good thermal transfer. One potential problem is the pads on the back and any connection to the backplate (which I'm assuming is aluminum).

You could replace the pads or move to a thermal putty (I did the latter on my 3080). Before replacing anything though I think making sure there's good contact on the backplate would be prudent.

 

[newwbie]

While they are notoriously hot that's outside of the range you should be seeing with good thermal transfer. One potential problem is the pads on the back and any connection to the backplate (which I'm assuming is aluminum).

You could replace the pads or move to a thermal putty (I did the latter on my 3080). Before replacing anything though I think making sure there's good contact on the backplate would be prudent.

i have heard the orginal pads are the best and i am reluctant to replace them .( or so i have been told) .

 

[williamjeremiah]

i have heard the orginal pads are the best and i am reluctant to replace them

When purchasing replacement thermal pad material, simply be sure to get the appropriate thickness.

 

[CountMike]

i have heard the orginal pads are the best and i am reluctant to replace them .( or so i have been told) .

Thermal pads should be replaced, not reused every time cooler is taken off. Once they are squished they don't return to original state so lose some contact and effectiveness. There are also manufacturers that make much better thermal pads, like Arctic Cooling and Thermal Grizzly. Carbon based are the best.

 

[newwbie]

Thermal pads should be replaced, not reused every time cooler is taken off. Once they are squished they don't return to original state so lose some contact and effectiveness. There are also manufacturers that make much better thermal pads, like Arctic Cooling and Thermal Grizzly. Carbon based are the best.

will try to get them thanks every one