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Thermal Pad Sizes for GPUs: Measuring, Specifying, and Ordering Custom-Cut Pads

by | Aug 24, 2026 | Thermal Pads

Replacing GPU thermal pads requires more than knowing the thickness — the exact length, width, and shape of each pad must be specified. A VRAM pad that is 15 mm x 15 mm will not work if the spec calls for 12 mm x 12 mm. Getting the dimensions right the first time saves prototyping rounds and avoids thermal performance issues.

Thermal Pad Sizes GPUs Measuring Ordering Custom-Cut - image 1

This guide covers how to measure existing GPU thermal pads, how to specify dimensions for custom-cut replacements, and what tolerances to expect.

Measuring Existing GPU Thermal Pads

When original pads are available, measuring is straightforward:

  1. Remove the pad carefully — do not stretch or compress it during removal, as this distorts the dimensions
  2. Measure thickness first — use calipers on the least-compressed area of the pad. Remember that the pad may have compressed over time, so the measured thickness may be 10-20% less than the original spec
  3. Measure length and width — for rectangular pads, measure the longest and widest dimensions
  4. Note the shape — some GPU pads are not rectangular. VRM pads may have cutouts or notches to accommodate mounting screws or capacitor heights
  5. Count the pads — a typical GPU has separate pads for VRAM (multiple), VRMs (multiple), and sometimes the backplate

If the original pads are destroyed or missing, measure the component footprint directly on the PCB and add 1-2 mm to each dimension to ensure full coverage.

Specifying Dimensions for Custom Die-Cut GPU Thermal Pads

When ordering custom-cut thermal pads from NEDC, provide the following for each part:

  • Length and width in millimeters (or inches — we work in both)
  • Thickness in millimeters (the material’s nominal thickness, not the compressed measurement)
  • Shape — rectangular, with radii, with cutouts, or custom geometry
  • Material — manufacturer and product line, or performance specification (W/mK, silicone-free, etc.)
  • Quantity — number of each part needed

For complex shapes, send a drawing (CAD, PDF, or even a hand sketch with dimensions) or a sample part that we can reverse-engineer.

Available Thermal Pad Sizes for GPUs

Thermal pad materials are manufactured in sheets, typically 200 mm x 200 mm or 200 mm x 400 mm. From these sheets, NEDC can die-cut virtually any shape. Common GPU thermal pad sizes include:

sil-pad k4,k6,k10 die-cut

  • VRAM pads: 12×12 mm, 15×15 mm, 20×20 mm (varies by GPU model)
  • VRM pads: 40×10 mm, 50×15 mm, or custom shapes matching the VRM layout
  • GPU core pads: typically 30×30 mm to 40×40 mm, sometimes with cutouts for mounting

Standard thicknesses available across most material lines include 0.5 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, and 3.0 mm. For a complete list of available materials and thicknesses, see our thermal pads product page.

Tolerances on Die-Cut GPU Thermal Pads

Die-cut thermal pads have dimensional tolerances that vary by material and thickness. Softer materials (low-modulus gap fillers) tend to have wider tolerances because the material deforms slightly during cutting. Reinforced materials (fiberglass-backed pads) hold tighter tolerances.

For a complete breakdown of achievable tolerances, see our guide on tolerancing for thermal pads. Typical tolerances for die-cut thermal pads are:

  • Thickness: +/- 0.1 mm for most materials
  • Linear dimensions (length/width): +/- 0.5 mm for soft materials, +/- 0.25 mm for reinforced materials
  • Hole diameters: +/- 0.25 mm minimum

Ordering Custom GPU Thermal Pads from NEDC

NEDC can produce custom-cut GPU thermal pads in any shape and from any material we stock. The process:

  1. Send dimensions, material preference, and quantity — request a quote
  2. We confirm material availability and provide pricing
  3. For new shapes, we produce prototype parts for fitment testing
  4. Once prototypes are approved, we cut production parts using steel-rule dies

For prototype quantities, we can often turn parts within a few days. Production runs typically take 1-2 weeks depending on material availability and volume.

Tips for Multi-Pad GPU Orders

Most GPUs require multiple pad shapes — one for the core, several for VRAM, and one or more for VRMs. When ordering, group all pads for a single GPU model together and label each part clearly. NEDC can produce kiss-cut pad kits that keep all pads for one GPU organized on a single liner, which is ideal for assembly lines or repair kits.

For a sample of available materials, request our thermal pad sample kit.

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