The phase-change GPU thermal pad used in the RX 9070 XT offers several advantages over traditional thermal paste:
1. Superior Thermal Conductivity: Once the phase-change material melts, it fills microscopic gaps between the GPU and the thermal module, providing superior thermal conductivity. This ensures efficient heat dissipation, which is crucial for maintaining optimal performance during heavy GPU workloads[2][3][6].
2. Enhanced Longevity: Phase-change thermal pads outlast traditional thermal pastes by a significant margin. Unlike thermal paste, which can degrade over time and lose effectiveness due to "pump out" (where the paste is squeezed away from the die center), phase-change pads return to a solid state at room temperature, preventing this issue and maintaining their effectiveness over time[3][6].
3. Ease of Handling: Phase-change thermal pads remain solid at room temperature, making them easier to handle and install compared to liquid thermal pastes. This reduces the risk of spills and messes during assembly, maintaining device cleanliness[1][4].
4. Improved Performance Under Load: By ensuring consistent and efficient heat transfer, phase-change thermal pads help maintain lower GPU temperatures, even under intense loads. This is particularly beneficial for graphics cards like the RX 9070 XT, which are designed to handle demanding applications[2][8].
5. Reliability and Durability: The use of phase-change thermal pads contributes to the overall reliability and durability of the graphics card. By maintaining optimal thermal performance, these pads help prevent overheating and thermal throttling, which can extend the lifespan of the GPU[3][9].
Overall, the phase-change GPU thermal pad in the RX 9070 XT enhances cooling efficiency, longevity, and reliability, making it a superior choice for high-performance graphics cards.
Citations:[1] https://www.sheenthermal.com/MaterialSelection1.html
[2] https://www.asus.com/motherboards-components/graphics-cards/prime/prime-rx9070xt-o16g/
[3] https://www.thefpsreview.com/2025/01/06/asus-details-amd-radeon-rx-9070-xt-and-radeon-rx-9070-graphics-cards-from-tuf-gaming-and-prime/
[4] https://www.howtogeek.com/what-is-a-phase-change-thermal-pad-and-how-does-it-work/
[5] https://www.sapphiretech.com/en/news/sapphie_rx9070-series
[6] https://www.pcgamer.com/hardware/graphics-cards/with-its-prime-and-tuf-radeon-rx-9070-graphics-cards-asus-is-ditching-thermal-paste-for-a-thermal-pad-that-melts-when-hot/
[7] https://www.reddit.com/r/MSILaptops/comments/1cb0gmd/which_is_better_thermal_pad_or_thermal_paste/
[8] https://www.tweaktown.com/news/103548/amd-radeon-rx-9070-xt-tested-in-furmark-rtx-4080-perf-while-rdna-4-gpu-runs-at-cool-55c/index.html
[9] https://www.reddit.com/r/Amd/comments/1j07oib/introducing_the_asus_radeon_rx_9070_xt_and_rx/