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Arctic MX-2 vs PCCooler EX90: Comparison
What is the difference between Arctic MX-2 and PCCooler EX90?
They are built to different briefs, and recommended use shows it, Arctic MX-2 Mainstream CPU/GPU against PCCooler EX90 High-end CPU/GPU.
Which should you buy, Arctic MX-2 or PCCooler EX90?
The Arctic MX-2 is the one to take for 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. It also earns its place with buyers replacing an existing MX-2 application with the same known product. It is not the one for anyone who can afford MX-4's modest premium for better documented performance. The PCCooler EX90 suits overclockers and high-TDP builds wanting PCCooler's flagship-tier number. It is the wrong buy for buyers who want a paste with a longer independent review history, TFX or Kryonaut are more established. 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 PCCooler EX90 (7/10): PCCooler's flagship compound offers strong published numbers, though it lacks the independent review base of bigger brands.
Where the two are identical
The common ground is wider than the gap: electrical conductivity and paste segment are identical here.
Specs and benchmarks
Brand
- Arctic MX-2
- Arctic
- PCCooler EX90
- PCCooler
Model
- Arctic MX-2
- Arctic MX-2
- PCCooler EX90
- PCCooler EX90
Electrical Conductivity
- Arctic MX-2
- Insulating
- PCCooler EX90
- Insulating
Package Size
- Arctic MX-2
- 4g, 30g, 65g
- PCCooler EX90
- 4g tube
Recommended Use
- Arctic MX-2
- Mainstream CPU/GPU
- PCCooler EX90
- High-end CPU/GPU
Paste Segment
- Arctic MX-2
- Standard Paste
- PCCooler EX90
- 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 PCCooler EX90 if you already have it on hand or find it at a lower price.
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.
PCCooler EX90
7 / 10 Expert Rating
PCCooler's flagship compound offers strong published numbers, though it lacks the independent review base of bigger brands.