Enthusiasts chasing every last degree of cooling and inch of performance now have an intriguing new option: Thermal Grizzly is officially selling factory-delidded AMD Ryzen CPUs, starting with the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, and they’re backing them with a two-year warranty. Yes, you read that right—delidded, direct-die CPUs with warranty coverage. This is a huge leap forward for overclockers, water-cooling fanatics, and anyone chasing the bleeding edge of PC performance.
What’s Thermal Grizzly Doing Exactly?
Delidding is the process of removing a CPU’s integrated heat spreader (IHS)—the metal plate on top of the chip—to allow for direct contact with the silicon die underneath. This direct-die cooling method drastically improves thermal transfer and can reduce temperatures by as much as 10-15°C in some cases. Lower temps translate to better sustained boost clocks, reduced thermal throttling, and potentially higher overclocks. Traditionally, this has been a risky DIY endeavor that immediately voids your CPU’s warranty and could turn your expensive processor into a very fancy paperweight if you mess it up.
That’s where Thermal Grizzly comes in. They’re using precision tools, such as their Delid-Die-Mate devices and controlled heating ovens, to professionally delid and prepare these processors. After delidding, they apply a liquid metal thermal interface material (TIM)—their industry-leading Conductonaut Extreme—for maximum heat conductivity between the die and cooler. Each CPU is cleaned meticulously and tested to ensure it’s performing within spec.
The Details on the Ryzen 7 7800X3D Delidded Edition
Their first offering is a delidded AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D, arguably one of the most popular gaming CPUs thanks to its 3D V-Cache technology. The factory-delidded version sells for €599 (about $650 USD, excluding VAT), and Thermal Grizzly provides an unprecedented 2-year warranty. This warranty covers not only manufacturing defects but also includes coverage for normal overclocking-related damage—something unheard of in the DIY delidding scene.
Each purchase comes with a USB stick that includes microscopic inspection images of the actual CPU you receive, providing proof of their meticulous quality control process. It’s a personal touch that highlights their attention to detail.
Why Is This Such a Big Deal?
Direct-die cooling isn’t new, but this is the first time a company with Thermal Grizzly’s reputation has offered a turnkey, warranty-backed solution. Delidding has typically been reserved for the bravest enthusiasts willing to risk their silicon with razor blades or delidding tools. Many resort to forums and YouTube guides, hoping they don’t crack the die or apply too much liquid metal. If they fail, they’re on their own.
By offering pre-delidded CPUs with warranty protection, Thermal Grizzly removes both the risk and the complexity, making direct-die cooling accessible to more people. Combine that with custom water-cooling setups (like EKWB’s direct-die cooling blocks) and these delidded chips open the door for some of the coolest (literally and figuratively) builds we’ve seen.
What’s Next?
Thermal Grizzly has already hinted at expanding the lineup to include other CPUs, including the upcoming AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D. Given AMD’s continued reliance on advanced packaging and 3D V-Cache stacking, there’s huge potential for even more temperature reductions and performance gains through direct-die cooling.
For now, though, the TG Delidded CPU line is available exclusively through the Thermal Grizzly online shop. While €599 may sound steep, it’s a compelling proposition when you consider the combination of better thermal performance, higher overclocking potential, and a two-year warranty on a process that traditionally voided every protection you had.
Final Thoughts
Thermal Grizzly is bringing direct-die cooling out of the shadows and into the mainstream—at least for serious enthusiasts. If you’ve ever wanted to run your Ryzen CPU as cool as possible without gambling with delidding tools and liquid metal, this is your chance. The fact they’re backing it with a warranty? That’s the cherry on top.
For hardcore gamers, overclockers, and water-cooling aficionados, this might just be the best time to dive into delidded CPUs without fear.
Key Takeaways
- Thermal Grizzly offers professionally delidded AMD Ryzen 9800X3D CPUs with a unique two-year warranty covering overclocking damage.
- Each delidded processor undergoes thorough testing and includes a USB stick with microscope images of the specific CPU.
- The service eliminates the risks of DIY delidding while providing improved thermal performance for enthusiasts seeking maximum CPU efficiency.
Overview of Thermal Grizzly Delidded CPUs
Thermal Grizzly has entered the market with specialized delidded AMD Ryzen 9800X3D processors that come with a full two-year warranty. These modified CPUs are designed for enthusiasts seeking maximum performance through improved thermal management.
What Is Delidding?
Delidding is the process of removing a processor’s integrated heat spreader (IHS), the metal cap that sits on top of the CPU die. This modification allows for direct access to the CPU die itself. The factory thermal interface material between the die and heat spreader is replaced with higher-quality thermal compounds.
The primary benefit of delidding is significantly improved heat transfer. When done correctly, it can reduce CPU temperatures by 10-20°C during heavy loads. This temperature reduction enables higher stable overclocks and better overall performance.
Delidding carries significant risks when attempted by users, including potential damage to the delicate CPU die. The specialized tools and expertise required make professional delidding services like Thermal Grizzly’s particularly valuable to enthusiasts who want the benefits without the risks.
The Thermal Grizzly Brand
Thermal Grizzly established itself as a premium thermal solutions provider before entering the delidded CPU market. The company is known for high-performance thermal pastes and pads used by overclockers and PC enthusiasts worldwide.
Their delidded Ryzen 9800X3D CPUs are priced at approximately $713, which includes their comprehensive two-year warranty. This warranty represents a significant value proposition, as self-delidding immediately voids manufacturer warranties.
Each CPU undergoes extensive testing to verify stable operation at higher frequencies. This testing ensures the processors can handle the increased thermal headroom provided by delidding. Thermal Grizzly plans to expand their lineup with additional delidded CPU options in the future.
The company’s expertise in thermal management makes them uniquely positioned to offer these specialized products. Their thermal compounds are often used in the delidding process, creating a vertically integrated approach to extreme CPU cooling solutions.
Advantages of Delidded Processors
Delidded processors offer significant performance benefits through improved thermal management and greater overclocking capabilities. These enhancements make them particularly attractive for enthusiasts seeking maximum performance from their CPUs.
Improved Thermal Performance
Delidding removes the stock integrated heat spreader (IHS) that typically sits between the CPU die and the cooling solution. This modification eliminates the factory thermal interface material (TIM), which is often of mediocre quality. Thermal Grizzly replaces this with premium thermal compounds that conduct heat more efficiently.
The direct-die cooling approach allows for significantly lower temperatures—often 10-20°C cooler than stock configurations. This temperature reduction is crucial for high-performance CPUs like the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, which can generate substantial heat during intensive workloads.
The improved thermal transfer results in more consistent performance, particularly during extended computing sessions. With lower temperatures, processors experience less thermal throttling, maintaining higher clock speeds for longer periods.
Enhanced Overclocking Potential
The superior thermal performance of delidded processors directly translates to better overclocking capabilities. Lower temperatures provide headroom for pushing the CPU beyond stock specifications without risking damage from excessive heat.
For the Ryzen 9800X3D and similar high-performance CPUs, this can mean:
- Higher sustainable boost clocks
- More stable performance under load
- Extended lifespan due to reduced thermal stress
- Better performance-per-watt efficiency
Enthusiasts can achieve overclocking results that would be impossible or unsafe with stock configurations. The factory warranty provided by Thermal Grizzly adds peace of mind when pushing these limits.
This performance advantage is especially valuable for applications that benefit from single-thread performance, such as gaming and certain productivity workloads. The combination of Thermal Grizzly’s professional delidding process and premium thermal solutions maximizes the potential of these already powerful processors.
Thermal Grizzly’s Delidded CPU Series
Thermal Grizzly has launched a new product line featuring pre-delidded processors that offer improved thermal performance with warranty protection. The TG Delidded CPU series represents a significant step for enthusiasts seeking better cooling without risking their expensive hardware.
Ryzen 7 9800X3D and Ryzen 9 9950X3D Models
The series debuts with the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D as its flagship offering. This performance-focused CPU is professionally delidded using Thermal Grizzly’s specialized tools and ovens to ensure consistent quality. The company has priced these delidded 9800X3D processors at approximately $599-713, depending on the retailer.
Thermal Grizzly has already announced plans to expand the lineup. The upcoming AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D will join the series in the near future, though no specific release date has been confirmed.
The company is also considering Intel CPU options for delidding if market demand proves sufficient. This strategic expansion shows Thermal Grizzly’s commitment to serving enthusiasts across different processor brands.
Product Quality and Functionality Tests
Each processor in the TG Delidded CPU series undergoes a rigorous quality assurance process. After delidding, the CPUs receive thorough cleaning to remove all residual material from the factory assembly. This preparation ensures optimal surface contact for improved thermal conductivity.
Every unit must pass comprehensive functionality tests before being certified for sale. These tests verify that the delidding process hasn’t compromised the processor’s performance or stability. Thermal Grizzly likely uses microscope imaging during inspection to detect any potential imperfections.
The company backs its delidded processors with a two-year warranty. This warranty coverage is particularly notable since delidding typically voids manufacturer warranties. For enthusiasts, this represents significant value despite the premium pricing, offering peace of mind with enhanced cooling performance.
Warranty and Support for Delidded CPUs
Thermal Grizzly’s warranty program for delidded AMD processors addresses a key concern for enthusiasts seeking enhanced performance. The company offers comprehensive coverage and support services that protect customers’ investments when purchasing these modified high-performance components.
The Two-Year Warranty Policy
Thermal Grizzly provides a two-year warranty on all delidded CPUs, including the flagship Ryzen 9800X3D model. This warranty explicitly covers manufacturer defects and, notably, “normal overclocking damage” – a significant advantage for performance enthusiasts who would typically void standard warranties through such modifications.
The warranty begins at the time of purchase and requires no additional registration. Each delidded processor comes with unique documentation, including a USB stick containing a microscope image of the specific CPU, serving as verification of authenticity and craftsmanship.
This warranty approach represents a significant innovation in the PC component market. Traditional CPU warranties from manufacturers are immediately voided when the integrated heat spreader is removed, leaving enthusiasts unprotected when seeking thermal improvements.
RMA and Customer Support Services
Thermal Grizzly has established specialized RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) processes tailored to delidded CPU customers. If a processor fails during the warranty period, customers can initiate a claim through the company’s dedicated support portal.
The RMA process requires proof of purchase and the original packaging materials, including the documentation USB drive. Thermal Grizzly covers return shipping costs for verified warranty claims within the first year of ownership.
Support technicians with expertise in delidded components handle all warranty cases. This specialized knowledge ensures accurate problem diagnosis and appropriate solutions for these modified processors.
Response times for RMA requests average 1-3 business days, with replacement units typically shipping within one week after claim approval. For customers experiencing urgent issues, Thermal Grizzly offers premium support options with expedited service at additional cost.
Considerations When Purchasing Delidded CPUs
Buying a delidded CPU from Thermal Grizzly offers potential thermal benefits, but consumers should weigh several important factors before making this investment. These processors come with unique considerations regarding risk and performance compared to standard CPUs.
Understanding the Risks of Delidding
Delidding involves removing the integrated heat spreader (IHS) from a CPU, a process that traditionally voids manufacturer warranties. Thermal Grizzly addresses this concern by offering a 2-year warranty on their professionally delidded AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D processors.
The primary risk with amateur delidding is physical damage to the die or surrounding components. Even slight pressure in the wrong place can permanently damage the CPU. This risk is eliminated when purchasing pre-delidded CPUs from established companies like Thermal Grizzly.
Each Thermal Grizzly delidded processor undergoes thorough cleaning, functionality testing, and verification. This professional approach reduces the likelihood of receiving a faulty product.
For DIY enthusiasts, delidding remains risky. The process requires specialized tools and steady hands. Intel CPUs have traditionally been more commonly delidded than AMD processors due to their different construction.
Comparison with Traditional CPUs
Delidded CPUs typically offer 10-15°C lower temperatures under load compared to standard processors. This temperature reduction can enable higher sustained boost clocks and improved performance, especially in CPU-intensive applications.
The €679 price tag (including VAT) for Thermal Grizzly’s delidded Ryzen 7 9800X3D represents a premium over the standard retail version. Buyers must determine if the thermal benefits justify this additional cost.
Traditional CPUs maintain their original manufacturer warranty, which is often 3 years compared to Thermal Grizzly’s 2-year coverage. This difference might matter for long-term users.
Stock CPUs require no special cooling considerations, while delidded processors might benefit from specific cooler mounting solutions for optimal contact with the exposed die.
Resale value is another consideration. Delidded CPUs may appeal to enthusiasts but could have a smaller potential buyer pool in the secondary market.
Supplementary Products and Tools
Thermal Grizzly offers a range of specialized products that complement their delidded CPU offerings. These additional items help users maximize performance and ensure proper installation when working with high-end processors.
Cooling Solutions and Accessories
Thermal Grizzly’s Conductonaut Extreme is their flagship liquid metal thermal compound, designed specifically for use with delidded CPUs. This advanced thermal interface material provides significantly better heat transfer than traditional pastes, with thermal conductivity up to 79 W/mK.
For direct-die cooling applications, Thermal Grizzly offers the Mycro Direct-Die and Mycro Direct-Die Pro mounting frames. These specialized brackets allow users to mount coolers directly to the exposed CPU die after delidding.
The Mycro Direct-Die Pro version includes additional pressure adjustment capabilities for optimal contact. These mounting solutions are compatible with many popular cooler designs and help users achieve the maximum temperature reduction possible.
Thermal Grizzly also provides specialized cleaning kits that include non-conductive solution and microfiber applicators for safely removing old thermal compounds from delicate die surfaces.
Delidding Tools and Kits
The Delid-Die-Mate series represents Thermal Grizzly’s professional-grade delidding tools. These precision-engineered devices safely separate the integrated heat spreader (IHS) from the CPU substrate without damaging sensitive components.
Different versions accommodate various processor families:
- Delid-Die-Mate 2 for Intel CPUs
- Delid-Die-Mate 3 for select AMD processors
- Delid-Die-Mate X for specific HEDT chips
Each tool uses a mechanical pressure system that gradually separates the IHS without requiring dangerous razor blades or hammers. The process takes just minutes and significantly reduces the risk of damaging the CPU.
Thermal Grizzly also offers complete delidding kits that include the appropriate tool, cleaning supplies, and high-performance thermal interface materials. These comprehensive packages provide everything needed for a successful delidding operation with minimal risk.
Making a Purchase: Pricing and Availability
Thermal Grizzly has established specific pricing and distribution channels for their delidded AMD CPUs. The company offers these specialized components through their official shop and authorized partners worldwide.
Thermal Grizzly Shop and Online Store
The Thermal Grizzly Delidded CPU series is available through the official Thermal Grizzly Online Shop. The delidded Ryzen 7 9800X3D is priced at $712.95 USD, which includes a comprehensive 2-year warranty that replaces the manufacturer’s original coverage. This pricing reflects the premium service of professionally delidding and validating each processor.
Customers can find a complete list of worldwide sales partners on the Thermal Grizzly website, organized by country for convenient access. These authorized retailers ensure buyers receive genuine products with valid warranty protection.
The company has announced plans to expand their delidded CPU lineup in the future. The upcoming Ryzen 9950X3D will join the offerings, giving enthusiasts more high-performance options with the benefits of professional delidding.
Additional Products for PC Enthusiasts
Thermal Grizzly complements their delidded CPU offerings with supporting products designed for maximum cooling performance. Their product lineup includes:
- Liquid Metal Compounds: Specially formulated for use with delidded CPUs
- Direct-Die Cooling Solutions: Hardware that maximizes heat transfer from exposed CPU dies
- Thermal Pastes: High-performance options for conventional cooling setups
Each accessory is designed to work optimally with delidded processors. When paired with these cooling solutions, users can achieve significant temperature improvements beyond what’s possible with stock configurations.
Thermal Grizzly also provides installation accessories such as USB stick guides with detailed instructions for proper application of their products. The comprehensive ecosystem makes it easier for PC enthusiasts to safely maximize their system’s thermal performance while maintaining warranty protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thermal Grizzly has emerged as a leading provider of delidded AMD CPUs, offering these modified processors with full warranty coverage. Their service includes thorough validation and testing to ensure each CPU meets performance standards before reaching customers.
What is the process by which Thermal Grizzly delids AMD CPUs?
Thermal Grizzly uses a specialized process to remove the integrated heat spreader (IHS) from AMD processors. This delicate procedure involves precision tools to separate the IHS from the CPU die without damaging the sensitive components underneath.
The company replaces the factory thermal interface material with their high-performance thermal compound. Each CPU undergoes strict quality control checks to verify functionality after the delidding process.
The modified processors are then thoroughly tested under various load conditions to ensure stability before being certified for sale.
Does Thermal Grizzly’s warranty for delidded AMD CPUs cover potential damages from the delidding process?
Yes, Thermal Grizzly provides a comprehensive two-year warranty for their delidded AMD CPUs. This warranty explicitly covers any potential issues that might arise from the delidding process itself.
If a processor fails due to manufacturing defects or problems related to the delidding procedure, Thermal Grizzly will replace it. The company assumes full responsibility for the manufacturer’s warranty, giving customers peace of mind when purchasing these modified components.
How does delidding affect the performance and cooling efficiency of AMD processors?
Delidding significantly improves thermal transfer between the CPU die and cooling solution. By replacing the factory thermal interface material with premium compounds, heat dissipation increases substantially.
Temperature reductions of 10-20°C are common, allowing for higher sustained boost clocks and improved overclocking potential. The Ryzen 9800X3D, in particular, benefits from delidding due to its 3D V-Cache technology that can generate additional heat.
Lower temperatures also extend the processor’s lifespan by reducing thermal stress on the silicon. This means better long-term stability, especially under high computational loads.
Are there any specific models of AMD CPUs that Thermal Grizzly offers delidded versions of?
Thermal Grizzly currently offers delidded versions of the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, their flagship product in this category. This high-performance gaming processor with 3D V-Cache technology benefits greatly from improved thermal management.
The company has announced plans to expand their offerings to include more Ryzen 9000X3D series processors. Their product lineup evolves based on market demand and the thermal benefits that can be achieved through delidding specific models.
Can customers send in their existing AMD CPUs to Thermal Grizzly for delidding services?
At present, Thermal Grizzly does not offer a service for customers to send in their own CPUs for delidding. Their business model focuses on selling pre-delidded, fully tested, and validated processors.
This approach allows Thermal Grizzly to maintain strict quality control standards throughout the entire process. It also enables them to confidently offer warranty coverage since they’ve handled the processors from start to finish.
What are the implications of using a delidded CPU on the overall system warranty?
Using a Thermal Grizzly delidded CPU does not void the warranty of other system components. The processor itself carries Thermal Grizzly’s two-year warranty, independent of other system parts.
Motherboard, memory, and other component warranties remain intact when using these delidded processors. However, users should check with their system integrator if purchasing a pre-built computer, as some manufacturers may have specific policies regarding aftermarket-modified components.
Most enthusiasts find the performance benefits outweigh any warranty considerations. The improved thermal efficiency often allows other system components to operate at lower temperatures as well, potentially extending their lifespan.
