With GeForce RTX 50 graphics cards, thermal gel emerge
Now leaking thermal paste is causing trouble for new Nvidia graphics cards from Gigabyte. The manufacturer already confirmed a corresponding problem with its RTX 50 models. In addition, there is a particular condition.
Melting thermal paste on RTX 50 cards
With regard to Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 50 series, the negative headlines have been increasing again in the past few days. After a fixed driver update recently caused problems with the recording of the GPU temarters and a report had attested a critical thermal design error to all graphics cards of the 50 series, another problem now occurs. Because with graphics cards from the manufacturer Gigabyte, thermal gel runs out and runs down on the card.
The first case was in the Korean hardware forum Quasar zone (via Tom’s hardware) documented where a user shared photos of his gigabyte aorus master ice rtx 5080. In the pictures it can be seen clearly how a light gray substance leaves under the heat sink in two different places. The card affected was only one month old and, according to the owner, was only used for about two hours a day for World of Warcraft.
Vertical assembly as a risk factor
Thereupon other users who have to deal with the same difficulties. Accordingly, the problem not only occurs in the Aorus Master series, but also affects other models of the gaming OC and Windforce series from Gigabyte. According to those affected, the vertical assembly of the graphics cards using a riser kit seems to be a crucial factor.
With this popular built-in method for visually appealing PC housing, the graphics card is not inserted horizontally in the PCIe slot, but stands upright in the housing.
Gigabyte has now reacted to the reports and confirms the problem. The company explains that thermal gel specially developed in its RTX 50 and Radeon RX 9000 graphics cards is used instead of conventional thermal pad. This material should ensure better contact with uneven surfaces and is applied machine.
Over -application in early production hinges
As the cause of the expiry, Gigabyte mentions too generous use of the thermal gel in early production hits. The company emphasizes that it is a purely cosmetic problem that does not affect the performance or the service life of the graphics cards.
The gel is an insulating, deformable material that can withstand temperatures up to 150 degrees Celsius without melting. For newer production runs, the amount applied have already been adjusted to avoid similar problems. A recall or exchange program has not yet been announced. Instead, affected users are asked to contact Gigabyte’s regional customer service.
Recommendations for those affected
However, owners of Gigabyte RTX 50 graphics cards should regularly check your hardware for escaping thermal gel, especially if you use vertical assembly. Excess material can be carefully removed with a soft cloth or isopropyl alcohol. If you are unsure, contact an authorized service center.
Experts also advise you to do without vertical assembly for Gigabyte RTX for the time being, even if they may be more visually appealing. The horizontal installation of the graphics card significantly minimizes the risk of leaking thermal paste.
