1. Introduction and Product Overview
This manual provides detailed instructions and information for the Noctua NT-H1 and NT-H2 series of thermal compounds. These premium-grade thermal pastes are designed to ensure optimal heat transfer between your CPU/GPU and heatsink, crucial for maintaining stable temperatures and maximizing performance in both air and liquid cooling setups.
The NT-H1 is a renowned hybrid thermal compound, celebrated for its excellent performance, ease of use, and long-term stability. The NT-H2 represents the second generation, offering further improved thermal performance through a fine-tuned formula of micro-particles, while retaining the NT-H1's user-friendly characteristics.
2. Product Variants
The Noctua thermal compounds are available in several editions, each tailored to specific user needs:
- NT-H1 3.5g SW Edition: This package includes the NT-H1 thermal paste, a spatula for manual spreading, and three NA-CW1 cleaning wipes for preparation and removal.
- NT-H1 3.5g AM5 Edition: Specifically designed for AMD AM5 CPUs, this edition includes the NT-H1 thermal paste and the NA-TPG1 thermal paste guard to prevent paste build-up in the CPU's heatspreader cut-outs.
- NT-H2 3.5g AM5 Edition: The improved NT-H2 thermal paste in an AM5-specific package, including the NA-TPG1 thermal paste guard and ten NA-CW1 cleaning wipes.
- Standard NT-H1 and NT-H2 (3.5g, 10g): These versions typically include the thermal paste syringe only, with varying quantities.
The NA-TPG1 thermal paste guard is a simple yet effective accessory designed to prevent thermal paste from accumulating in the cut-outs of AMD AM5 CPU heatspreaders, ensuring a cleaner installation and easier maintenance.
3. Specifications
| Feature | NT-H1 | NT-H2 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 3.5g / 10g | 3.5g / 10g |
| Volume | 1.4 ml | 1.2 ml |
| Density | 2.49 g/cm³ | 2.81 g/cm³ |
| Colour | Grey | Grey |
| Recommended Storage Time (before use) | Up to 3 years | Up to 3 years |
| Recommended Usage Time (on CPU) | Up to 5 years | Up to 5 years |
| Recommended Storage Temperature | Room temperature | Room temperature |
| Operating Temperature | -50 to 110°C | -50 to 200°C |
| RGB Support | No RGB | No RGB |
| Material | Other | Other |
4. Setup and Application Instructions
Proper application of thermal paste is crucial for optimal cooling performance. Follow these steps carefully:
- Preparation:
- Ensure your CPU/GPU and heatsink surfaces are clean and free of any old thermal paste or debris. Use the included NA-CW1 cleaning wipes (if applicable) or a lint-free cloth with isopropyl alcohol to thoroughly clean both surfaces.
- For AM5 CPUs, if using an AM5 Edition thermal paste, carefully place the NA-TPG1 thermal paste guard over the CPU to cover the cut-outs around the heatspreader.
Image: Cleaning old thermal paste from a CPU using a wipe.
Image: NA-TPG1 thermal paste guard in place on an AM5 CPU.
- Application:
- For most CPUs, apply a small, pea-sized dot of thermal paste directly onto the center of the CPU's heatspreader.
- Alternatively, for larger CPUs or GPUs, a thin line or cross pattern can be used.
- If your package includes a spatula (SW Edition), you may spread the paste into a thin, even layer across the entire heatspreader surface.
Image: Applying thermal paste with a spatula for an even spread.
Image: Direct application of NT-H2 AM5 Edition thermal paste to a CPU.
- Heatsink Installation:
- Carefully place the heatsink onto the CPU/GPU, ensuring it is aligned correctly.
- Apply even pressure as you secure the heatsink according to its manufacturer's instructions. The pressure from the heatsink will naturally spread the thermal paste.
- Avoid twisting or lifting the heatsink once it makes contact, as this can create air bubbles and reduce performance.
5. Maintenance
Noctua thermal compounds are designed for excellent long-term stability, with a recommended usage time of up to 5 years on the CPU. However, reapplication may be necessary under certain circumstances:
- When replacing the CPU cooler: Always clean off old thermal paste and apply new paste when installing a different cooler.
- When replacing the CPU/GPU: New components require fresh thermal paste.
- If temperatures increase significantly: This could indicate that the thermal paste has dried out or degraded, requiring reapplication.
To remove old thermal paste, use NA-CW1 cleaning wipes or a lint-free cloth with isopropyl alcohol. Gently wipe the surfaces until all residue is gone.
Image: NA-CW1 cleaning wipe in action.
6. Troubleshooting
If you experience higher-than-expected temperatures after applying thermal paste, consider the following:
- Incorrect Application: Ensure you applied enough paste to cover the CPU/GPU heatspreader adequately, but not excessively. Too little or too much paste can hinder heat transfer.
- Uneven Spread: If you spread the paste manually, ensure the layer is thin and even. Air bubbles can also cause poor contact.
- Improper Heatsink Mounting: Verify that the heatsink is securely and evenly mounted, applying consistent pressure across the CPU/GPU. Loose or uneven mounting is a common cause of high temperatures.
- Dried Out Paste: While Noctua pastes have long lifespans, if the paste is very old or exposed to air, it might dry out. Reapply if necessary.
- Cooler Performance: Ensure your CPU cooler is adequate for your CPU's thermal design power (TDP) and is functioning correctly (fans spinning, pump working for AIOs).
7. User Tips
- Less is More: A pea-sized dot or a thin line is usually sufficient for most CPUs. The pressure from the heatsink will spread it effectively.
- Cleanliness is Key: Always ensure both the CPU/GPU and heatsink surfaces are perfectly clean before applying new thermal paste. Residue from old paste or dust can create imperfections.
- AM5 Guard: For AMD AM5 CPUs, the NA-TPG1 guard is highly recommended to keep the CPU clean and prevent paste from seeping into the cut-outs.
- No Break-in Period: Noctua thermal pastes do not require a break-in or burn-in period; they achieve full performance immediately after application.
- Non-Electrically Conductive: Both NT-H1 and NT-H2 are non-electrically conductive and non-corroding, making them safe to use without risk of short-circuiting components.
8. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information or technical support, please refer to the official Noctua website or contact their customer service directly. Ensure you retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What is the main difference between NT-H1 and NT-H2?
- A: NT-H2 is the second generation of Noctua's thermal compound, offering improved thermal performance over NT-H1 while maintaining excellent ease of use and long-term stability.
- Q: Do I need to spread the thermal paste?
- A: For most CPUs, applying a pea-sized dot in the center is sufficient, as the heatsink pressure will spread it. However, if you prefer, or for larger dies, you can use a spatula (like those included in SW Editions) to spread a thin, even layer.
- Q: How often should I reapply thermal paste?
- A: Noctua thermal pastes are designed for long-term stability, with a recommended usage time of up to 5 years on the CPU. Reapplication is generally recommended when you remove or replace your CPU cooler or CPU/GPU.
- Q: Is the thermal paste electrically conductive?
- A: No, both NT-H1 and NT-H2 are non-electrically conductive, making them safe to use around electronic components without risk of short-circuiting.
- Q: What is the NA-TPG1 thermal paste guard for?
- A: The NA-TPG1 is a guard specifically for AMD AM5 CPUs. It prevents thermal paste from accumulating in the cut-outs of the CPU's heatspreader, making cleaning and maintenance easier.
