Silicone thermal pads and silicone thermal grease are two different types of thermal interface materials(TIMs) used to transfer heat between two surfaces. Thermal pads are solid and provide a different sort of coverage in the way that it might leave some air pockets, which is something that you do not want. Thermal grease is a paste-like product with high thermal conductivity, which can effectively reduce the contact thermal resistance between the heat source and the radiator. You can use silicone thermal grease instead of silicone thermal pads. Both silicone thermal pads and silicone thermal grease are used to improve the heat transfer between a heat source, such as a CPU or GPU, and a heatsink. However, silicone thermal pads are pre-cut and pre-shaped while silicone thermal grease is a paste that needs to be applied manually.

Silicone thermal pads are generally easier to use and less messy, but they may not provide as much thermal conductivity as thermal grease. On the other hand, silicone thermal grease can be messier and more difficult to apply, but it can provide better heat transfer if applied correctly.

If you decide to use silicone thermal grease instead of silicone thermal pads, make sure to clean the surfaces thoroughly before applying the grease and to apply the correct amount of grease to ensure optimal heat transfer.

It's important to note that silicone thermal pads are designed to provide a better connection between two surfaces than silicone thermal grease, so it is usually better to use silicone thermal pads.

If you would like to learn more about AOK performance thermal materials, please visit our website at www.aok-technologies.com.