Keeping an eye on your CPU’s temperature is crucial for ensuring your computer runs smoothly. A CPU that’s running too hot can lead to performance issues like throttling, crashes, and even system instability. Thankfully, there are several ways to check your CPU temperature, and you might even have some of the necessary tools already installed. Whether you’re troubleshooting a PC problem or simply want to monitor your processor’s performance, this guide will walk you through the best methods for checking your CPU temperature.
Checking CPU Temperature on Windows
For a comprehensive view of your system’s components, including their temperatures, voltages, and other crucial details, HWInfo is a classic choice. It’s a lightweight and detailed tool that doesn’t come with any overclocking features, but it provides all the temperature information you need in a single window. Here’s how to use it:
1.
Download and Install:
Head to the official HWInfo website and download the latest version. Install it like any other application.2.
Launch HWInfo:
When you launch the program, select “Sensors Only” if you’re solely interested in temperature readings. Alternatively, you can explore the full suite of tools and delve into the details of all your system components.3.
Locate CPU Information:
Scroll down the list of sensors and locate the “CPU” section. You’ll find your CPU model listed there. Look for the “Current,” “Minimum,” “Maximum,” and “Average” temperatures, which show how your CPU’s temperature fluctuates over time and under different workloads. You’ll also see the Tdie temperature (CPU die average temperature), as well as individual core temperatures (for Intel CPUs) or core complex die temperatures (for AMD processors with multiple cores).Depending on your CPU generation and model, you may also have access to CPU hotspot temperatures, L3 cache temperatures, and IOD temperatures. To view individual core temperatures, click the small arrow next to “Core Temperatures.”
Checking CPU Temperature on Mac
For Mac users, TG Pro is a top choice for monitoring CPU temperature and controlling your fan. Apple has verified this app, ensuring compatibility with all macOS updates, including those for the latest M1 and M2 processors. It’s also compatible with classic Intel MacBooks. Here’s how to use it:
1.
Download and Install:
Download TG Pro from its official website and install it like any other application.2.
Monitor and Control:
TG Pro allows you to monitor your computer’s internal temperature while also controlling your fan. You can manually tweak fan curves, giving you control over your system’s temperatures regardless of your workload.Checking AMD CPU Temperature
If you have an AMD Ryzen processor, AMD’s Ryzen Master is the go-to tool for tracking general CPU information and overclocking, including checking your CPU’s temperature. Here’s how to use it:
1.
Download and Install:
Download Ryzen Master from the official AMD website and install it.2.
View CPU Statistics:
When you launch the application, you’ll find a breakdown of your processor’s statistics at the top of the screen. This includes temperature, voltage, usage, and more. You can also dive into individual cores to see their clock speeds and temperatures for a more in-depth look at your AMD CPU’s performance.Checking Intel CPU Temperature
For Intel Core processor users, Intel’s Extreme Tuning Utility (XTU) is the best tool for checking your CPU’s temperature. While primarily designed for overclocking, XTU also includes several built-in monitoring functions. Here’s how to use it:
1.
Download and Install:
Download Intel XTU from the official Intel website and install it like any other application.2.
View Temperature and Other Information:
When you launch XTU, you’ll see a wealth of information. Focus on the lower panel of the main screen, where you’ll find key information about your CPU, including the package temperature and its corresponding graph. This represents your CPU temperature. If your processor is running particularly hot, you might see the “Thermal Throttling” indicator set to “Yes.” This means your CPU is deliberately running slower to prevent temperatures from exceeding safe operating thresholds. If this happens, you should consider improving your CPU cooling to enhance performance.3.
Monitor CPU Utilization:
XTU also shows your CPU’s utilization percentage, indicating how hard it’s working. If you want to test your CPU’s performance under stress, you can use XTU’s built-in CPU benchmark found under the relevant left-hand tab. For those interested in overclocking, explore our guide to CPU overclocking.Understanding CPU Temperature and Cooling
Now that you know how to check your CPU temperature, you’ve taken the first step in understanding its performance. Here’s a breakdown of some important concepts:
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Safe CPU Temperatures:
The safe operating temperature for your CPU depends on the specific model. Generally, temperatures under 80 degrees Celsius when fully loaded are considered safe. However, newer CPUs can handle temperatures up to 95 degrees without impacting performance. For more detailed information, consult our guide on safe CPU temperatures.*
Improving CPU Cooling:
You can improve your CPU’s cooling to reduce its temperature by enhancing its heatsink, improving airflow, or lowering its speed. You can buy a new cooler with a larger heatsink. Improving airflow involves increasing fan speeds, optimizing cable management, and adding more fans to your case. To reduce your CPU’s speed, you can underclock or undervolt it, which will lower its operating temperature.Frequently Asked Questions
What is a safe CPU temperature?
The safe operating temperature for your CPU varies depending on the model. Generally, temperatures under 80 degrees Celsius when fully loaded are considered safe, but newer CPUs can handle temperatures up to 95 degrees without impacting performance. For more information, consult our guide on safe CPU temperatures.
How can I improve my CPU cooling?
You can improve your CPU’s cooling to lower its temperature by increasing the size of its heatsink, improving airflow to it, or by lowering its speed so it doesn’t work as hard. The former means buying a new cooler, and you can improve airflow by raising fan speeds, improving cable management, or adding more fans to your case. To make your CPU run a little slower, you can underclock, or better yet undervolt it, to lower its working temperature.
