Does Corsair iCUE H100i Come With Thermal Paste (2026 Complete Guide)
The Corsair iCUE H100i liquid CPU cooler is one of the most popular all-in-one (AIO) liquid coolers on the market, known for its excellent cooling performance, quiet operation, and integration with Corsair’s iCUE software ecosystem. One of the most common questions from first-time builders and upgraders is whether the Corsair iCUE H100i comes with thermal paste pre-applied on the cold plate, or whether you need to purchase and apply thermal paste separately. The answer depends on which revision of the H100i you have, as Corsair has updated their thermal paste application across different product generations. In this comprehensive 2026 guide, we will cover exactly what thermal paste situation to expect with the H100i, how to handle pre-applied paste, when to reapply, and everything else you need to know about thermal paste for AIO coolers.
Last updated: July 19, 2026 · Estimated reading time: 13 minutes
Table of Contents
- Understanding the Different H100i Versions
- Pre-Applied Thermal Paste on the Cold Plate
- Quality of Pre-Applied Thermal Paste
- Do You Need Additional Thermal Paste?
- How to Apply Thermal Paste for AIO Installation
- Removing and Replacing Old Thermal Paste
- Thermal Paste Comparison Chart
- Mounting the H100i Cooler
- Common Thermal Paste Mistakes
- Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding the Different H100i Versions
The Corsair iCUE H100i has gone through several revisions since its initial release, and the thermal paste situation differs between versions. Understanding which version you have helps you know exactly what to expect when you open the box and prepare for installation.
Corsair iCUE H100i Elite Capellix
The iCUE H100i Elite Capellix, one of the most popular recent versions, comes with thermal paste pre-applied to the copper cold plate. The pre-applied paste is applied in a precise pattern at the factory and is covered by a protective plastic peel that must be removed before installation. This pre-applied paste is Corsair’s own thermal compound, formulated for good thermal conductivity and ease of application. For most users, the pre-applied paste is perfectly adequate and provides strong cooling performance without any additional steps.
Corsair iCUE H100i Elite LCD
The H100i Elite LCD variant, which features an integrated LCD display on the pump head, also comes with pre-applied thermal paste on the cold plate. The same principles apply — the paste is pre-applied at the factory, covered by a protective peel, and ready for installation without any additional preparation. The thermal compound used is identical to the Elite Capellix version.
Older H100i Versions
Older H100i models, including the original H100i, H100i GTX, and H100i v2, also came with pre-applied thermal paste. However, if you are purchasing one of these older models as new-old-stock or used, the pre-applied paste may have dried out or degraded over time. Thermal paste typically has a shelf life of several years when sealed in the packaging, but paste that has been exposed to air or stored in hot conditions may not perform optimally. In these cases, removing the old paste and applying fresh thermal compound is recommended.
Pre-Applied Thermal Paste on the Cold Plate
The pre-applied thermal paste on the Corsair iCUE H100i cold plate is a factory-applied layer of thermal compound that covers the center of the copper cold plate surface. Understanding how this paste works and how to handle it correctly ensures optimal thermal performance when you install the cooler.
What the Pre-Applied Paste Looks Like
When you remove the protective peel from the cold plate, you will see a thin, even layer of gray thermal paste applied in a circular pattern in the center of the copper surface. The paste layer is relatively thin — this is intentional. Excess thermal paste is not better; a thin, even layer provides the best thermal transfer between the CPU heat spreader and the cold plate. The factory application is designed to provide optimal coverage when the cooler is mounted with standard mounting pressure.
The protective plastic peel serves two purposes: it prevents the paste from drying out during storage and shipping, and it prevents contamination from dust and debris. Never install the cooler with the protective peel still on the cold plate. This common mistake prevents any thermal transfer between the CPU and cooler, resulting in extremely high temperatures and potential thermal shutdown. Always remove the peel immediately before installation.
Does the Pre-Applied Paste Need to Be Replaced?
In most cases, no. The pre-applied thermal paste on a new Corsair iCUE H100i is formulated to provide excellent thermal performance right out of the box. Corsair’s thermal compound has thermal conductivity in the range of 5 to 7 W/mK, which is comparable to many popular aftermarket thermal pastes. For the vast majority of users, the pre-applied paste will provide cooling performance indistinguishable from aftermarket thermal paste. Replacing it is unnecessary and introduces the risk of improper application.
However, there are specific situations where replacing the pre-applied paste is warranted. If you remove the cooler after initial installation and need to remount it, the disturbed paste should be replaced with fresh compound. If you are installing the cooler on a different CPU after having it on another processor, fresh paste is required. If the pre-applied paste has been contaminated with dust, hair, or other debris, it should be replaced. And if you want the absolute best possible thermal performance and are willing to use a premium aftermarket paste, replacing the pre-applied compound is a reasonable step. For more information about AIO cooler installation procedures, see our guide on how to mount an AIO cooler.
Quality of Pre-Applied Thermal Paste
The quality of the thermal paste that comes pre-applied on the Corsair iCUE H100i is a frequent topic of discussion among PC enthusiasts. Understanding its quality helps you decide whether to use it as-is or replace it with a premium aftermarket paste.
Corsair’s Thermal Compound
Corsair uses a proprietary thermal compound for their pre-applied paste that provides thermal conductivity in the range of 5 to 7 W/mK. This places it in the mid-range of consumer thermal pastes — better than the basic white zinc oxide paste that comes with some budget coolers, but below premium pastes like Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut (12.5 W/mK) or Noctua NT-H2 (8.9 W/mK). In practical terms, the difference in CPU temperature between Corsair’s pre-applied paste and a premium aftermarket paste is typically only 1 to 3 degrees Celsius under load, which is within the margin of normal temperature variation.
The pre-applied paste has a consistency that is easy to work with if you need to clean and reapply. It spreads evenly under mounting pressure and does not harden quickly, making it forgiving during installation. The paste is non-conductive and non-capacitive, which means accidental contact with nearby components will not cause electrical damage. These properties make it suitable for users of all experience levels, from first-time builders to experienced enthusiasts.
When Premium Paste Matters
Premium thermal pastes provide measurable benefits in specific scenarios. High-performance overclocking where every degree of cooling matters is the most obvious case. When pushing a CPU to its thermal limits, the 2 to 4 degree advantage of premium paste can be the difference between a stable overclock and thermal throttling. Workstation builds with high-TDP processors (like AMD Threadripper or Intel Xeon) also benefit from premium paste because the higher heat output amplifies the thermal conductivity differences between paste qualities. For standard gaming and productivity builds at stock settings, the difference is negligible.
Do You Need Additional Thermal Paste?
For most users installing the Corsair iCUE H100i for the first time, no additional thermal paste is needed. The pre-applied compound on the cold plate is sufficient for excellent cooling performance. However, having a small tube of quality thermal paste on hand is a good practice for any PC builder.
Situations Where You Need Extra Paste
If you remove the cooler for any reason after the initial installation, you need fresh thermal paste. Once thermal paste has been compressed between the CPU and cold plate, it cannot be reused effectively. The paste has been spread thin and has conformed to the microscopic surface irregularities of both the CPU heat spreader and the cold plate. Attempting to reuse this paste by simply reseating the cooler results in uneven coverage and air gaps that reduce thermal performance. Always clean both surfaces and apply fresh paste when reseating a cooler.
If you are building multiple systems or frequently swap coolers between CPUs, a tube of thermal paste is essential. Buying a quality 3 to 4 gram tube provides enough paste for 10 to 20 applications, making it a cost-effective investment. Popular choices include Noctua NT-H1 (excellent performance and easy application), Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut (top-tier performance for overclocking), and Arctic MX-6 (great value with strong performance).
How to Apply Thermal Paste for AIO Installation
If you do need to apply thermal paste — either because you are replacing the pre-applied compound or because you are remounting the cooler — the application method matters for optimal thermal performance. The good news is that applying thermal paste is a simple process, and multiple application methods produce excellent results.
The Pea Method (Recommended)
The pea method is the most widely recommended application technique for AIO coolers. Apply a small blob of thermal paste, approximately the size of a pea (3 to 4mm diameter), to the center of the CPU heat spreader. When the cooler is mounted and the mounting pressure is applied, the paste spreads outward from the center, creating an even layer that covers the entire contact area. This method is simple, consistent, and produces excellent results for the vast majority of CPU and cooler combinations.
The X Method
The X method involves applying a thin X-shaped pattern of thermal paste across the CPU heat spreader. This method provides good coverage for larger CPUs where a single pea-sized blob might not spread to the edges under mounting pressure. The X method uses slightly more paste than the pea method but ensures more complete coverage on first application. It is particularly effective for AMD AM5 and Intel LGA 1700 processors, which have larger heat spreaders than previous generations.
The Line Method
The line method applies a thin line of thermal paste down the center of the CPU heat spreader, running from one edge to the other. The mounting pressure of the cooler spreads the paste laterally, creating even coverage. This method works well for rectangular CPU heat spreaders and is commonly used with AIO coolers where the cold plate contact area matches the CPU dimensions. Use a thin line — excess paste will squeeze out the sides when the cooler is mounted.
Methods to Avoid
Do not spread the thermal paste manually with a spatula, credit card, or other tool before mounting the cooler. While some guides recommend this technique, manual spreading often introduces air bubbles and creates an uneven layer. The mounting pressure of the cooler provides more consistent and even spread than manual application. Also, do not apply thermal paste to the cold plate instead of the CPU — the paste should always go on the CPU heat spreader for the most consistent results. For complete AIO mounting instructions, see our guide on how to mount an AIO cooler.
Removing and Replacing Old Thermal Paste
When you need to replace thermal paste — whether on the CPU or the cold plate — proper removal and reapplication ensures optimal thermal performance. Removing old paste correctly prevents contamination of the new paste and protects delicate components.
Removing Paste from the CPU
Use a lint-free cloth or coffee filter dampened with isopropyl alcohol (90% concentration or higher) to wipe the old thermal paste from the CPU heat spreader. Begin with gentle circular motions, applying light pressure to dissolve and absorb the paste. For stubborn residue, let the alcohol-soaked cloth sit on the surface for 10 to 15 seconds before wiping. Continue until the heat spreader surface is clean and shiny with no visible paste residue. Avoid getting alcohol on the motherboard components surrounding the CPU socket, though small amounts that contact the PCB are generally harmless and will evaporate quickly.
Removing Paste from the Cold Plate
The same cleaning method applies to the copper cold plate on the AIO cooler. Use isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth to remove all old paste from the copper surface. The cold plate should be clean and free of any residue before fresh paste is applied or before reapplying the cooler with the existing pre-applied paste (if it was not disturbed). Inspect the copper surface for any scratches, pitting, or corrosion that might affect thermal contact. Minor surface imperfections are normal and do not significantly impact cooling performance, but deep scratches or corrosion should be addressed before reinstallation.
When to Replace vs When to Leave
If you have just unboxed a new Corsair iCUE H100i and the pre-applied paste is clean and intact (no dust, hair, or contamination), leave it as-is and proceed with installation. If you need to remount the cooler after initially installing it, always replace the paste. If you have had the cooler installed for less than a year and are remounting it for a minor adjustment, the paste may still be in good condition, but fresh paste is still recommended for optimal performance. If you have had the cooler installed for more than a year, always use fresh paste when remounting, as thermal paste can dry out and harden over time, reducing its effectiveness.
Thermal Paste Comparison Chart
If you decide to replace the pre-applied paste with a premium aftermarket compound, choosing the right paste for your needs and budget can be confusing. The following comparison chart covers the most popular thermal pastes available in 2026.
| Thermal Paste | Thermal Conductivity | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corsair (pre-applied) | ~5-7 W/mK | Included | Standard builds |
| Noctua NT-H1 | 8.5 W/mK | $7-10 | All-around excellent |
| Noctua NT-H2 | 8.9 W/mK | $10-13 | Premium builds |
| Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut | 12.5 W/mK | $12-18 | Overclocking |
| Arctic MX-6 | 6 W/mK | $6-9 | Budget builds |
| Thermalright TFX | 14.3 W/mK | $10-15 | Extreme overclocking |
| Gelid GC-Extreme | 8 W/mK | $8-12 | Great value |
Mounting the H100i Cooler
Proper mounting of the Corsair iCUE H100i ensures correct contact pressure between the cold plate and CPU, which is critical for thermal paste distribution and cooling performance. The mounting process varies slightly depending on whether you have an Intel or AMD processor.
Intel Mounting
For Intel sockets (LGA 1200, LGA 1700), attach the Intel mounting brackets to the pump head using the included screws. Position the bracket so the mounting holes align with your socket’s mounting pattern. Apply the thermal paste (or use the pre-applied paste), position the pump head over the CPU, and align the bracket screws with the motherboard’s mounting holes. Tighten the screws in a cross pattern (alternating corners) to ensure even pressure distribution. Do not fully tighten one screw before starting the others — incrementally tighten each screw a few turns at a time in the cross pattern until all are snug. Over-tightening can crack the CPU heat spreader or damage the motherboard.
AMD Mounting
For AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets, remove the stock AMD mounting brackets from the motherboard (the plastic brackets on either side of the socket). The H100i includes AMD-specific mounting hardware that uses the motherboard’s backplate. Attach the AMD bracket to the pump head, position the cooler over the CPU, and secure the bracket to the backplate using the included screws. The cross-pattern tightening technique applies to AMD installations as well. For complete AIO installation instructions including both Intel and AMD platforms, see our detailed guide on how to mount an AIO cooler.
Radiator and Fan Installation
Mount the radiator to your case using the included screws, typically at the top or front of the case depending on your case layout and preferred airflow configuration. Attach the fans to the radiator in a push or pull configuration (or push-pull with four fans if your case supports it). Connect the fan cables to the included Y-splitter or directly to the pump head’s fan headers. Connect the pump power cable to the CPU_FAN header on your motherboard. Connect the USB cable from the pump head to an internal USB 2.0 header for iCUE software control.
Common Thermal Paste Mistakes
Avoiding common thermal paste mistakes ensures you get the cooling performance your AIO cooler is capable of delivering. These mistakes are easy to make but equally easy to avoid once you know what to watch for.
Leaving the protective peel on the cold plate is the most common and most damaging mistake. The plastic peel insulates the cold plate from the CPU, preventing any thermal transfer. The system will boot and appear to function, but CPU temperatures will skyrocket, often reaching thermal throttle limits within seconds of any workload. If your CPU temperatures are immediately abnormally high after installing a new cooler, the first thing to check is whether the protective peel was removed.
Using too much thermal paste is another common error. While thermal paste is not harmful in excess (it is non-conductive), too much paste creates a thick layer between the CPU and cold plate that actually reduces thermal conductivity. The paste’s thermal conductivity is lower than the direct metal-to-metal contact that would occur with no paste at all at the high points of the surface. Excess paste also squeezes out onto the motherboard, creating a mess that, while not harmful, is unsightly and difficult to clean. Trust the pea method and use a small amount.
Not cleaning old paste before applying new paste leads to contaminated thermal interface. Mixing old, partially dried paste with fresh paste creates an inconsistent layer with air pockets and uneven thermal conductivity. Always thoroughly clean both the CPU heat spreader and the cold plate before applying fresh paste. Use isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth until both surfaces are completely clean and shiny. For comprehensive cooler installation instructions, see our guide on how to mount an AIO cooler.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Corsair iCUE H100i come with thermal paste?
Yes, the Corsair iCUE H100i comes with thermal paste pre-applied to the copper cold plate. The pre-applied paste is covered by a protective plastic peel that must be removed before installation. The thermal compound is Corsair’s proprietary formula with thermal conductivity in the range of 5-7 W/mK, which provides excellent cooling performance for most builds. You do not need to purchase additional thermal paste for a first-time installation. For complete installation instructions, see our guide on how to mount an AIO cooler.
Do I need to buy thermal paste separately for the H100i?
No, the pre-applied thermal paste on the cold plate is sufficient for a first-time installation. You do not need to purchase additional thermal paste unless you plan to remount the cooler after initial installation, in which case you will need fresh paste. If you want to replace the pre-applied paste with a premium compound for potentially better thermal performance (typically 1-3°C improvement), you can purchase a tube of aftermarket thermal paste, but it is not required for excellent cooling performance.
Can I use the pre-applied paste if I remove the cooler and reinstall it?
No. Once the pre-applied paste has been compressed between the CPU and cold plate during installation, it cannot be effectively reused. The paste has been spread thin and has conformed to the surface irregularities of both surfaces. Attempting to reuse it results in uneven coverage and air gaps. If you remove the cooler for any reason, clean both the CPU and cold plate with isopropyl alcohol and apply fresh thermal paste before reinstalling. This applies to both the pre-applied paste and any aftermarket paste you may have used.
Is the pre-applied thermal paste good quality?
The pre-applied thermal paste on the Corsair iCUE H100i is mid-range quality with thermal conductivity around 5-7 W/mK. It provides excellent cooling performance that is suitable for the vast majority of builds, including gaming, productivity, and moderate overclocking. The difference between the pre-applied paste and premium aftermarket paste (12+ W/mK) is typically only 1-3°C under load, which is within the margin of normal temperature variation for most users. Only extreme overclockers pushing for maximum performance will benefit from upgrading to premium paste.
How do I apply thermal paste for the H100i?
If you are replacing the pre-applied paste, apply a pea-sized blob (3-4mm diameter) of thermal paste to the center of the CPU heat spreader. Do not spread it manually — the mounting pressure of the cooler will spread it evenly when you install the pump head. Alternative methods include the X pattern (thin X across the heat spreader) or a single line down the center. All three methods produce excellent results when used with the H100i’s cold plate. For complete installation instructions, see our guide on how to mount an AIO cooler.
How long does thermal paste last on an AIO cooler?
Thermal paste on an AIO cooler typically lasts 3 to 5 years before it begins to dry out and lose effectiveness. Premium pastes like Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut and Noctua NT-H2 can last 5 to 7 years or more. The pre-applied paste on the H100i is formulated for longevity and should provide strong performance for at least 3 years. If your CPU temperatures gradually increase over time without any other changes to your system, dried thermal paste may be the cause. For information about CPU coolers that come with paste pre-installed, see our article on whether CPUs come with coolers.
Does the H100i come with extra thermal paste in the box?
No, the Corsair iCUE H100i does not include a tube of thermal paste in the box. The only thermal paste provided is the pre-applied layer on the cold plate. If you want extra paste for future remounting or for use on other systems, you will need to purchase it separately. A 3-4 gram tube of quality thermal paste costs $7-15 and provides enough for 10-20 applications, making it a worthwhile investment for any PC builder. For guidance on connecting the AIO pump to your motherboard, see our article on whether you can plug an AIO pump into the CPU fan header.
What happens if I forget to remove the protective peel?
If you install the cooler with the protective plastic peel still on the cold plate, the plastic acts as an insulator between the CPU and the cooler. CPU temperatures will be extremely high, often exceeding 90-100°C within seconds of any workload. The system may boot and appear to function, but it will thermal throttle aggressively and may shut down to protect itself. If you notice immediately abnormally high temperatures after a new cooler installation, power off the system, remove the cooler, check for the protective peel, and reinstall correctly with fresh thermal paste.
Can I use liquid metal instead of thermal paste with the H100i?
Liquid metal thermal compounds like Thermal Conductonaut provide dramatically higher thermal conductivity (73 W/mK) than traditional paste, but they come with significant risks. Liquid metal is electrically conductive and can cause short circuits if it spills onto nearby components. It can also corrode aluminum surfaces over time, though the H100i’s copper cold plate is compatible with liquid metal. Using liquid metal requires extreme care during application and is generally recommended only for experienced builders who understand the risks. For most users, traditional thermal paste provides excellent performance without the risks associated with liquid metal.
Do I need to reapply thermal paste every time I clean my PC?
No. You only need to reapply thermal paste when you remove the cooler from the CPU. Routine PC cleaning (dusting fans, cleaning filters, wiping surfaces) does not affect the thermal paste between the CPU and cooler. If you clean your PC without removing the cooler, the thermal paste remains undisturbed and continues to function normally. Only when the cooler is physically separated from the CPU does the thermal paste need to be replaced. For more information about CPU cooler compatibility with different processors, see our guide on whether CPUs come with coolers.
