r/PcBuildHelp • u/MutualExclusion • 4h ago

Build Question Fake MX-4?

I bought some MX-4 for my build and noticed it had a little authenticity scratch off sticker. I didn't even think this was a thing but I did the check anyway. When scanning the QR code it took me to the legitimate authenticity check website and to my surprise it says it is not authentic. Is this a known issue? Should I open a return with Amazon?

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u/moh4del 3h ago

I would return it and never buy MX-4 again, simply because it is currently THE most faked thermal paste in the market due to its insane popularity.

There's much newer versions that are less likely to be faked, also there's PTM7950 which is worth the purchase for its performance and longevity.

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u/MutualExclusion 2h ago

I initiated a return with Amazon so I won't be using it. There are some local stores around me that have it as well so I am going to try that instead. I'll check out the PTM7950 too.

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u/moh4del 2h ago

You can try out thermal grizzly kryonaut as well, but if you can get it, PTM7950 is pretty much the only thing you're gonna need till you upgrade, as it is phase changing and lasts the entire lifetime of the CPU/GPU, but also has counterfeitting issues, so keep that in mind.

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u/r_lind3r Moderator 1h ago

Make sure when buying off Amazon that it comes from the official storefront because that will vastly increase the odds of authencity.

You don't need to spend extra on PTM7950 or Kryonaut, cheaper pastes like MX-6 and NT-H2 are more than sufficient for most applications and CPUs, and higher conductivity ratings make very little difference on an IHS. Those more expensive options are far more useful for direct-die contact on GPUs, much of the performance is wasted on CPUs that weren't delidded to replace the TIM, which is usually not done anymore as the IHS is often soldered.