The amount of thermal paste you should apply to your CPU depends on the size of the CPU and the type of thermal paste you are using. However, a good rule of thumb is to use a pea-sized amount of thermal paste. This will ensure that there is enough thermal paste to create a good bond between the CPU and the heatsink, but not so much that it will spill out and cause a mess.
If you are using a high-end CPU or a CPU that is known to run hot, you may want to use a slightly larger amount of thermal paste. However, it is important to avoid using too much thermal paste, as this can actually reduce the effectiveness of the thermal paste.
Here are some tips for applying thermal paste:
- Make sure that the CPU and the heatsink are clean.
- Apply the thermal paste to the center of the CPU.
- Spread the thermal paste evenly over the surface of the CPU.
- Do not over-tighten the heatsink.
If you are not sure how much thermal paste to use, it is always best to err on the side of caution and use a smaller amount. It is also a good idea to consult the instructions that come with your CPU or heatsink for specific application instructions.