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Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK vs Arctic Silver 5: Comparison

Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK vs Arctic Silver 5 compound type compared

The first real difference is compound type: Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK Silicone-Based Pad against Arctic Silver 5 Metal-Based. Operating temperature is not the same on both, -50 to +150 °C on the Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK versus -50 C to 130 C long-term; peak -50 C... on the Arctic Silver 5.

Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK vs Arctic Silver 5: which one fits your build

Take the Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK for high-end CPU/GPU, VRM/MOSFET, and memory-module cooling wanting the highest independently-measured W/mK figure among this catalog's pads. It is equally the pick for builds needing a documented electrical safety spec sheet (volume resistance, dielectric breakdown) rather than a generic non-conductive claim. Avoid it for buyers who specifically want Eisschicht's softer, more paste-like conforming fit for delicate uneven surfaces. The Arctic Silver 5 suits builders specifically seeking out Arctic Silver's historic formula, though it is the wrong buy for anyone who wants immediate full performance right after application. It also earns its place with enthusiasts comfortable with a multi-day burn-in period who want a well-documented legacy compound. It is not the one for builders unfamiliar with the curing requirement who might misjudge initial results. Our rating of the Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK (6.8/10): A soft, high-conductivity pad aimed at high-end builds, though it lacks the independent review base of the paste side of Alphacool's lineup. Our rating of the Arctic Silver 5 (5.9/10): A long-running metal-based paste known for a lengthy 200-hour cure period; once a category leader, now showing its age against newer non-curing formulas.

Frequently asked questions

Do the Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK and Arctic Silver 5 differ on recommended use?

Yes. Recommended Use reads High-end CPU/GPU on the Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK versus Mainstream CPU/GPU, High-end CPU/GPU on the Arctic Silver 5.

Is the Electrical Conductivity the same on the Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK and Arctic Silver 5?

It is. Both are listed at Insulating, so it is not a reason to pick one over the other.

Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK (Silicone-Based Pad/Non-Conductive/High-end CPU/GPU)
Alphacool
Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK
Arctic Silver 5 (Metal-Based/Non-Conductive/200-Hour Cure Period)
Arctic
Arctic Silver 5

Specs and benchmarks

  • Brand

    Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK
    Alphacool
    Arctic Silver 5
    Arctic Silver

  • Compound Type

    Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK
    Silicone-Based Pad
    Arctic Silver 5
    Metal-Based

  • Model

    Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK
    Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK
    Arctic Silver 5
    Arctic Silver 5

  • Electrical Conductivity

    Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK
    Insulating
    Arctic Silver 5
    Insulating

  • Package Size

    Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK
    120 x 20 x 1.5mm sheet
    Arctic Silver 5
    3.5g syringe (also 12g)

  • Recommended Use

    Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK
    High-end CPU/GPU
    Arctic Silver 5
    Mainstream CPU/GPU, High-end CPU/GPU

  • Paste Segment

    Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK
    Pad
    Arctic Silver 5
    Standard Paste

  • Operating Temperature

    Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK
    -50 to +150 °C
    Arctic Silver 5
    -50 C to 130 C long-term; peak -50 C to above 180 C

    Which one should you pick?

    Choose Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK if you already have it on hand or find it at a lower price.

    Choose Arctic Silver 5 if you already have it on hand or find it at a lower price.

    Price comparison

    RetailerAlphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mKArctic Silver 5
    Alphacool Shop (EU)View on Alphacool Shop (EU)
    NeweggView on Newegg
    AmazonView on Amazon

    Disclaimer: The price and specification of the given product may differ from the actual product. Please confirm on the retailer's website before buying.

    Verdict

    Alphacool Apex Thermal Pad Soft 18W/mK

    6.8 / 10 Expert Rating

    A soft, high-conductivity pad aimed at high-end builds, though it lacks the independent review base of the paste side of Alphacool's lineup.

    Arctic Silver 5

    5.9 / 10 Expert Rating

    A long-running metal-based paste known for a lengthy 200-hour cure period; once a category leader, now showing its age against newer non-curing formulas.

    More comparisons in Thermal Paste