Conclusion:

The Thermalright Chill Factor Thermal Paste may look like the generic stuff, but the performance indicates that it is anything but. In addition to providing a temperature drop that reveals that this is performance paste, it offers many other features that should appeal to computer enthusiasts. It is not electrically conductive, it isn't sticky so you won't pull your CPU out of the socket when removing your cooler, you get a decent volume of paste in the syringe, and it is very reasonably priced.


A search of PriceGrabber turns up no results, but looking around the web shows a few retailers with the Chill Factor paste in stock. Stores such as Sidewinder Computers and PC Toys carry the paste with a price tag of about six or seven dollars. Compared to many premium pastes, this price is quite competitive, and increases its appeal.

A feature that may be seen as a positive or negative by different people is the published life expectancy of 12 months. Many pastes do not include such a date, and people may be under the false impression that the stuff will last forever. Having the date posted on the packaging lets people know that they should be prepared to re-apply the paste in a year. I am fine with this as I rarely have a system stay together for a few months let alone a whole year, but others may find 12 months to be limiting.

Given the performance boost it provides without making a big mess or conducting electricity, the Thermalright Chill Factor Thermal Paste earns the Bigbruin.com "Highly Recommended" award. And considering the price and amount of paste you receive, it earns the "Good Value" award.


Pros:

» Improved cooling over generic paste
» Not electrically conductive
» Won't pull your CPU out of the socket
» Syringe provides a generous volume of paste
» Reasonably priced

Cons:

» None

Special thanks to Thermalright for providing the Thermalright Chill Factor Thermal Paste to Bigbruin.com for review!