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Arctic MX-2 vs ID-Cooling Frost X45: Comparison
Arctic MX-2 vs ID-Cooling Frost X45: the compound type difference
They are built to different briefs, and compound type shows it, Arctic MX-2 Carbon-Based against ID-Cooling Frost X45 Silicone-Based. They differ on recommended use too, Mainstream CPU/GPU on the Arctic MX-2 versus High-end CPU/GPU on the ID-Cooling Frost X45.
Who each one is for
The Arctic MX-2 suits cost-sensitive mainstream builds where a budget compound is the priority, though it is not built for high-end or overclocked builds needing stronger conductivity. The same goes for buyers replacing an existing MX-2 application with the same known product. It is the wrong buy for anyone who can afford MX-4's modest premium for better documented performance. Take the ID-Cooling Frost X45 for enthusiasts and overclockers who want flagship-adjacent numbers without paying flagship prices. Avoid it for builders who specifically want an established brand name over a value pick, TFX or Kryonaut carry more brand recognition. Our rating of the Arctic MX-2 (5.4/10): A carbon-based budget legacy compound from Arctic, functional but dated next to MX-4/6/7. Our rating of the ID-Cooling Frost X45 (8.8/10): one of the best-performing pastes on air cooling in independent testing, though its thick consistency takes practice to spread well.
Where the two are identical
Where they agree, they agree completely, electrical conductivity and paste segment included, so the decision does not turn on any of those.
Specs and benchmarks
Brand
- Arctic MX-2
- Arctic
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- ID-Cooling
Compound Type
- Arctic MX-2
- Carbon-Based
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- Silicone-Based
Model
- Arctic MX-2
- Arctic MX-2
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- Frost X45
Electrical Conductivity
- Arctic MX-2
- Insulating
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- Insulating
Package Size
- Arctic MX-2
- 4g, 30g, 65g
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- 2g or 4g syringe
Recommended Use
- Arctic MX-2
- Mainstream CPU/GPU
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- High-end CPU/GPU
Paste Segment
- Arctic MX-2
- Standard Paste
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- Standard Paste
Which one should you pick?
Choose Arctic MX-2 if you already have it on hand or find it at a lower price.
Choose ID-Cooling Frost X45 if you already have it on hand or find it at a lower price.
Price comparison
| Retailer | Arctic MX-2 | ID-Cooling Frost X45 |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | View 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
Arctic MX-2
5.4 / 10 Expert Rating
A carbon-based budget legacy compound from Arctic, functional but dated next to MX-4/6/7.
ID-Cooling Frost X45
8.8 / 10 Expert Rating
One of the best-performing pastes on air cooling in independent testing, though its thick consistency takes practice to spread well.