Step-by-Step Guide to Check CPU Temperature on Windows 11

Key Notes

  • Monitor CPU temperature using third-party applications like HWiNFO, Core Temp, or HWMonitor.
  • Accessing the BIOS/UEFI can also provide temperature readings.
  • Understanding CPU temperatures is crucial for system stability and performance.

Discovering How to Check Your CPU Temperature on Windows 11

As computer components heat up during intensive tasks, monitoring CPU temperature becomes essential for maintaining performance and preventing hardware failures. This guide will explore simple methods to check CPU temperature using various applications and BIOS settings.

How to Check CPU Temperature Using Applications

While Windows 11 lacks built-in tools for monitoring CPU temperatures, several third-party applications can exhaustively gauge this vital metric.

Step 1: Monitor CPU Temperature with HWiNFO

HWiNFO is renowned for providing extensive details regarding CPU temperatures alongside other system metrics like GPU and motherboard data. Install it using the steps below:

  1. Open Start on Windows 11.

  2. Search for Command Prompt, right-click the top search result, and select Run as administrator.

  3. Execute the following command to install HWiNFO:

    winget install --id REALiX. HWiNFO

  4. Choose the Sensors-only option after launching the app.

  5. Click Start to commence monitoring.

  6. Select “CPU [#0]” from the list.

  7. Locate the “CPU (Tctl/Tdie)” for AMD or “CPU Package” for Intel systems to read the CPU temperature.

Pro Tip: HWiNFO can present a wealth of data; focus on the temperature readouts for clarity.

Step 2: Using Core Temp for Temperature Monitoring

Core Temp is an excellent choice for its simplified approach to CPU temperature monitoring. Follow these steps to install:

  1. Open Start on Windows 11.

  2. Search for Command Prompt, right-click, and choose Run as administrator.

  3. Type the following command to install Core Temp:

    winget install --id ALCPU. CoreTemp

  4. Launch Core Temp from the Start menu.

  5. Monitor CPU temperatures under the “Temperature Readings” section.

Pro Tip: Core Temp provides visual readouts of min/max temperatures since launch.

Step 3: How to Use HWMonitor

HWMonitor also provides a significant level of insight into your CPU’s temperature amidst many other hardware metrics. Install it as follows:

  1. Open Start on Windows 11.

  2. Search for Command Prompt, right-click, and select Run as administrator.

  3. Enter this command to install HWMonitor:

    winget install --id CPUID. HWMonitor

  4. Launch HWMonitor from the Start menu once installed.

  5. Select your system processor from the list displayed.

  6. Expand the Temperature section to view the CPU temperature readings.

Pro Tip: HWMonitor can show temperatures for each core if your CPU features multiple cores.

How to Check CPU Temperature via BIOS

For a more fundamental approach, you can check your CPU temperature through your system’s BIOS/UEFI. This method can be especially useful in custom-built systems:

  1. Navigate to Settings in Windows 11.

  2. Go to System.

  3. Select Recovery.

  4. Under “Recovery options, ” click Restart now for Advanced startup.

  5. Choose Troubleshoot.

  6. Proceed to Advanced options.

  7. Click on UEFI Firmware Settings.

  8. Hit Restart to enter the UEFI settings.

  9. View the CPU temperature on the primary page displayed.

Pro Tip: Refer to your motherboard’s documentation for specific BIOS settings if temperature readings are challenging to locate.

Additional Tips

  • Regularly monitoring your CPU temperature can help prevent overheating during resource-intensive tasks.
  • Ensure your PC’s cooling system (fans, heatsinks) is functioning correctly for optimal temperature regulation.
  • Using multiple monitoring tools can provide a more comprehensive view of your CPU’s health.

Summary

Monitoring your CPU temperature is crucial for the health of your system. Using dedicated third-party apps like HWiNFO, Core Temp, and HWMonitor offers a comprehensive way to keep tabs on CPU performance. Additionally, accessing the BIOS/UEFI provides a more traditional approach to checking your CPU’s vital statistics. Ensuring proper temperatures is essential for optimal performance and longevity of your hardware.

Conclusion

By familiarizing yourself with these tools and methods, you can effectively monitor your CPU temperature and ensure your system remains cool under pressure. Regularly check your CPU’s status to prevent potential overheating, safeguarding your hardware investment.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Why is it important to monitor CPU temperature?

Monitoring CPU temperature is vital for preventing overheating, which can lead to system instability, crashes, or hardware damage.

What is the average CPU temperature range?

Typically, an average CPU operates between 30°C to 70°C, depending on the workload and cooling solutions implemented.