If the application of thermal paste puts you in difficulty, Igor’s Lab has developed a simple and functional accessory that is right for you: X-Apply. It is a simple stencil that allows you to spread the mixture evenly uniform and in the right quantity.
Igor Wallosek (founder of Igor’s Lab) called the device “idiot proof“. In fact, getting the application wrong with such a guide is rather unlikely, but it seems that there are also advantages for experienced users who already know the most widespread techniques (such as the “X” application or the traditional “grain of rice”).
According to tests conducted by Igor’s Lab, applying with X-Apply allowed the CPU to reduce temperatures, on average, by 4 C with a 360 mm AIO liquid cooler. An overall negligible difference, but interesting if we take into account the device we are talking about.
Of course, the difference will be exclusively the price, given that essentially it is a small plastic stencil and nothing more. Igor’s Lab has already explained that three variants will be available: one dedicated to processors Intel for LGA 1700 and 1851 socketsone to the processors AMD Ryzen for socket AM5 and finally a universal one to cut out and adapt to any CPU.
If the price is not excessive, it could prove to be an interesting aid to prevent part of the IHS from remaining uncovered. For those who usually apply the paste ends directly on the socket, well, a stencil will not solve the temperature problem.
