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Arctic MX-5 vs ID-Cooling Frost X45: Comparison
What is the difference between Arctic MX-5 and ID-Cooling Frost X45?
Compound type is the dividing line, Arctic MX-5 Carbon-Based against ID-Cooling Frost X45 Silicone-Based. Recommended use is not the same on both, CPU/GPU/Console Coolers on the Arctic MX-5 versus High-end CPU/GPU on the ID-Cooling Frost X45.
Which should you buy, Arctic MX-5 or ID-Cooling Frost X45?
The Arctic MX-5 suits buyers wanting Arctic's latest reformulated MX-series compound, though it is not built for extreme overclockers needing documented top-tier conductivity. It also earns its place with console coolers and applications with lighter mounting pressure needing easier spreading. It is the wrong buy for standard desktop builds where MX-4's officially confirmed rating is preferable for comparison. Take the ID-Cooling Frost X45 for enthusiasts and overclockers who want flagship-adjacent numbers without paying flagship prices. It is not the one 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-5 (6.8/10): A reformulated, lower-viscosity successor to MX-4, positioned as an easier-to-apply middle step in Arctic's current lineup. 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.
What Arctic MX-5 and ID-Cooling Frost X45 have in common
Everything else lines up. Electrical conductivity and paste segment read the same on both, so those are not worth weighing.
Specs and benchmarks
Brand
- Arctic MX-5
- Arctic
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- ID-Cooling
Compound Type
- Arctic MX-5
- Carbon-Based
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- Silicone-Based
Model
- Arctic MX-5
- Arctic MX-5
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- Frost X45
Electrical Conductivity
- Arctic MX-5
- Insulating
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- Insulating
Package Size
- Arctic MX-5
- 2g, 4g, 8g, 20g
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- 2g or 4g syringe
Recommended Use
- Arctic MX-5
- CPU/GPU/Console Coolers
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- High-end CPU/GPU
Paste Segment
- Arctic MX-5
- Standard Paste
- ID-Cooling Frost X45
- Standard Paste
Which one should you pick?
Choose Arctic MX-5 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-5 | 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-5
6.8 / 10 Expert Rating
A reformulated, lower-viscosity successor to MX-4, positioned as an easier-to-apply middle step in Arctic's current lineup.
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.