How to check your PC’s CPU temperature
How to Check Your PC’s CPU Temperature
Monitoring your CPU temperature is essential for maintaining performance and avoiding overheating. Here’s how you can check it easily and keep your PC safe.
Why Monitor CPU Temperature?
Your CPU generates heat during operation. High temperatures can cause performance drops, crashes, or permanent damage. Checking the temperature helps ensure it stays within safe limits.
Tools to Check CPU Temperature
There are multiple ways to monitor your CPU’s temperature. Here are the most effective ones:
1. Using BIOS/UEFI
Your PC’s BIOS/UEFI displays hardware stats, including CPU temperature.
Steps:
- Restart your computer.
- Enter the BIOS by pressing the appropriate key during boot (usually F2, F10, or DEL).
- Navigate to the hardware monitoring section.
The BIOS provides real-time temperature readings. However, this method isn’t convenient for regular monitoring.
2. Third-Party Software
Specialized software offers real-time CPU temperature monitoring.
Popular Tools:
- HWMonitor: Displays CPU, GPU, and other hardware stats.
- Core Temp: Focuses on CPU temperature readings.
- Open Hardware Monitor: Free and open-source with detailed stats.
These tools provide more details, like individual core temperatures and fan speeds.
3. CPU Utility Software
Some CPU manufacturers provide monitoring software.
- Intel Extreme Tuning Utility (XTU): For Intel CPUs.
- AMD Ryzen Master: For AMD processors.
These tools are reliable and tailored for specific CPU families.
Ideal CPU Temperatures
Knowing what’s safe is important.
- Idle: 30°C to 50°C
- Under Load: 60°C to 85°C
- Critical: 90°C and above (requires immediate action).
Temperatures can vary slightly depending on your CPU model.
What to Do If Temperatures Are High
1. Improve Cooling
- Clean dust from fans and vents.
- Upgrade your CPU cooler.
- Use a laptop cooling pad (if applicable).
2. Reapply Thermal Paste
Old or improperly applied thermal paste can cause overheating. Replace it every few years.
3. Optimize Airflow
Ensure proper airflow in your PC case. Add extra fans if needed.
4. Avoid Overclocking
Overclocking increases heat generation. Disable it if your cooling setup isn’t sufficient.
Conclusion
Checking your PC’s CPU temperature is easy with BIOS or third-party tools. Regular monitoring keeps your system healthy and prevents overheating. Take action if temperatures exceed safe limits.