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How to properly replace thermal paste on xbox series x

Xbox Series X Users Discuss Thermal Paste Replacement | Tips and Controversy

By

Sophie Chen

Sep 19, 2025, 05:58 PM

Edited By

Alex

2 minutes of duration

A person applying thermal paste on an Xbox Series X console with a spatula.

A growing number of people are weighing in on the best practices for replacing thermal paste in Xbox Series X consoles. Questions have arisen about the correct amount to use, with mixed advice from seasoned gamers and tech enthusiasts.

Pushback on Current Practices

Some tech-savvy gamers express concern about how Xbox Series X units are shipped. "They shipped all with so much it overflowed by about a half inch," noted one commenter, suggesting the factory defaults lead to needless mess and risk.

The Right Amount of Thermal Paste

Amid the debate, one piece of information stands out. A consensus seems to point toward a pea-sized dot as the ideal quantity for optimal performance. One source stressed that while using more won't directly harm thermal efficiency, it can create a mess around the CPU, leading to potential maintenance headaches later on.

"A pea-sized dot is the way to go," a commenter advised, emphasizing the simplicity of the technique.

Guidance from the Community

Many suggest referring to guides on Xboxโ€™s official support channels. "Find the guide on Xbox support," urged one user, indicating the wealth of knowledge available through official resources. While some folks view replacing thermal paste as a DIY project, others recommend sticking to tried-and-true practices.

Sentiment Patterns

The community shows a mix of frustration and support. Many users appreciate sharing advice, while others offer cautionary tales about overdoing it. One person commented positively, "There is no harm of overdoing the thermal paste but it's still not recommended."

Key Insights

  • ๐Ÿ”น Consensus on using a pea-sized dot of thermal paste

  • ๐Ÿ”น Concerns about factory practices with excess paste

  • ๐Ÿ”น Community-driven support through guides and shared experiences

Ultimately, replacing thermal paste in your Xbox Series X is a task that can optimize performance if done correctly. As people dive into this maintenance task, community recommendations continue to shape best practices for a smoother gaming experience.

For those seeking additional help or updates, consider checking out Xbox Support for comprehensive guides and forums.

Future Trends in Thermal Paste Replacement

There's a strong chance the community will continue to refine its approach to thermal paste replacement for the Xbox Series X. As more people share their experiences, experts estimate that best practices will become more standardized. We may also see third-party companies emerge, offering pre-applied thermal paste solutions aimed at easing the process. The rising awareness of performance optimization could lead to specialized forums dedicated to this specific maintenance task, where guidance and tips will be exchanged frequently.

A Unique View from the Past

The current chatter about thermal paste mirrors the early days of smartphone customization, especially when Apple launched its iPhone. At that time, tech enthusiasts experimented with various DIY tweaks to enhance performance, sometimes resulting in opponent backlash from cautious users. Similar to today's gaming community, those early adopters shared tips and warnings, leading to the establishment of standards for modifications. Like the iPhone, the Xbox Series X could emerge as a beloved platform where its fans shape the discourse around maintenance, thus building a richer community culture around gaming technology.