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Install the Vilros Pi 5 heatsink with aluminum case

Step-by-step instructions for installing the Vilros heatsink on Raspberry Pi 5 for use with the Vilros aluminum case.

BeginnerPi 5 · CoolingBy Vilros

Overview

The Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 heatsink is designed for optimal thermal performance with the Vilros aluminum case (VILP287). This low-profile heatsink dissipates heat from the Pi 5's processor and power management IC while allowing the case to act as a passive cooling surface.

Important: This heatsink is specifically sized for use with the Vilros aluminum case. If you're not using the case, consider the official Raspberry Pi Active Cooler or a taller heatsink for better airflow.

What you need

  • Vilros Raspberry Pi 5 heatsink (included with Vilros Pi 5 kits or available separately)
  • Vilros aluminum case for Raspberry Pi 5 (VILP287)
  • Raspberry Pi 5
  • Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher, optional for cleaning)
  • Lint-free cloth or microfiber towel

Installation steps

1. Prepare the Pi 5

  1. Power off your Raspberry Pi 5 and disconnect all cables.
  2. Remove any existing heatsinks or thermal pads if present.
  3. Clean the processor and power management IC with isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth. Let it dry completely.
Note: The Pi 5 has two main heat-generating components: the Broadcom BCM2712 processor (large chip in the center) and the RP1 I/O controller (smaller chip near the USB ports). The heatsink covers both.

2. Apply thermal pads

  1. The Vilros heatsink comes with pre-cut thermal pads for both chips.
  2. Peel the protective film from one side of each thermal pad.
  3. Carefully align and press the thermal pads onto the processor and I/O controller.
  4. Peel the remaining protective film from the top of each pad.

3. Attach the heatsink

  1. Align the heatsink over the thermal pads, ensuring it sits flush with both chips.
  2. Press down firmly and evenly to ensure good contact.
  3. The heatsink should not wobble or tilt. If it does, remove it, clean the surfaces, and reapply the thermal pads.
Tip: Avoid touching the adhesive side of the thermal pads. Oils from your fingers can reduce thermal conductivity.

Install in the Vilros aluminum case

  1. Place the Pi 5 with heatsink into the bottom half of the aluminum case.
  2. Align the mounting posts with the Pi's mounting holes and gently press down.
  3. The heatsink should make contact with the case lid when closed. This transfers heat from the heatsink to the aluminum case, which acts as a passive heatsink.
  4. Secure the case with the included screws.
  5. Connect your cables through the case openings and power on your Pi.
Thermal performance: The Vilros case + heatsink combination provides passive cooling sufficient for typical workloads. For sustained heavy loads (e.g., compiling, video encoding, gaming), consider adding active cooling (fan) or the official Raspberry Pi Active Cooler.

Verify cooling performance

Monitor your Pi's temperature to ensure the heatsink is working properly:

vcgencmd measure_temp

Typical idle temperatures: 40–50°C (104–122°F). Under load: 60–75°C (140–167°F).

Check for thermal throttling:

vcgencmd get_throttled

Output throttled=0x0 means no throttling. If you see other values, your Pi may be overheating. Ensure the heatsink is making good contact and the case is properly closed.

Stress test (optional)

Run a CPU stress test to verify cooling under load:

sudo apt install stress
stress --cpu 4 --timeout 60s

Monitor temperature during the test with:

watch -n 1 vcgencmd measure_temp

The Pi should remain below 85°C (185°F) during sustained load. If temperatures exceed this, check heatsink contact or add active cooling.

Need more help?

Visit the Vilros Learn Center or contact Vilros support.