After trusting a minimalist build guide, I learned the hard way that thermal paste isn't optional

Thermal paste actually PROTECTS the CPU from slow damage over years, not just instant overheating. Those AIR POCKETS without paste create hot spots that wear out the chip faster. Guides that skip it are cutting corners and your hardware pays the price.

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caleb_gonzalez7mo ago

Was it actually catastrophic or just running a bit hot?

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betty5867mo ago

My old i5 hit 100C without it too.

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