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Arctic MX-7 vs PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad: Comparison
Arctic MX-7 vs PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad: the recommended use difference
Recommended use is the dividing line, Arctic MX-7 Mainstream CPU/GPU, High-end CPU/GPU against PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad GPU VRM/MOSFET Cooling, Case-Mod Builds. There is a split on paste segment as well, Standard Paste on the Arctic MX-7 versus Pad on the PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad.
Which should you buy, Arctic MX-7 or PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad?
Buy the Arctic MX-7 for MX-4 and MX-6 users wanting Arctic's newest formula and builds with exposed SMD components near the die, though it is the wrong buy for buyers who want a published W/mK figure to compare and anyone who prefers spreading paste with a spatula. The same goes for GPU, console and laptop repastes where pump-out is the main concern. it is not the pick for standard CPU IHS-to-cooler applications where a conventional paste is simpler. It also earns its place with GPU VRM/MOSFET cooling and case-mod builds needing a cuttable, shapeable thermal pad. Avoid it for anyone needing a spreadable liquid compound rather than a solid cut-to-size sheet. Our rating of the Arctic MX-7 (8.7/10): Arctic's newest flagship compound, positioned as a genuine step up over MX-6 for enthusiasts chasing the last few degrees. Our rating of the PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad (6.9/10): A cuttable high-conductivity sheet aimed at GPU VRM and case-mod cooling, from a brand known for water-cooling components.
What Arctic MX-7 and PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad have in common
Where they agree, they agree completely, electrical conductivity included, so the decision does not turn on any of those.
Specs and benchmarks
Electrical Conductivity
- Arctic MX-7
- Insulating
- PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad
- Insulating
Package Size
- Arctic MX-7
- 2g, 4g, 8g tubes; 4g also sold bundled with 6x MX Cleaner wipes
- PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad
- 60x50mm sheets, multiple thicknesses
Recommended Use
- Arctic MX-7
- Mainstream CPU/GPU, High-end CPU/GPU (marketed for CPUs, GPUs, consoles and laptops)
- PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad
- GPU VRM/MOSFET Cooling, Case-Mod Builds
Safety Notes
- Arctic MX-7
- Non-conductive and non-capacitive; volume resistivity 1.7x10^12 ohm-cm, breakdown voltage 4.2 kV/mm
- PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad
- None
Paste Segment
- Arctic MX-7
- Standard Paste
- PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad
- Pad
Which one should you pick?
Choose Arctic MX-7 if you already have it on hand or find it at a lower price.
Choose PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad if you already have it on hand or find it at a lower price.
Price comparison
| Retailer | Arctic MX-7 | PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad |
|---|---|---|
| Arctic Store | View on Arctic Store | |
| Amazon | View on Amazon | |
| Best Buy | View on Best Buy |
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-7
8.7 / 10 Expert Rating
Arctic's newest flagship compound, positioned as a genuine step up over MX-6 for enthusiasts chasing the last few degrees.
PrimoChill Ultra Extreme XR-m Thermal Pad
6.9 / 10 Expert Rating
A cuttable high-conductivity sheet aimed at GPU VRM and case-mod cooling, from a brand known for water-cooling components.