The CPU’s temperature, measured in degrees Celsius (°C) or Fahrenheit (°F), is a vital indicator of how hot your central processing unit is getting during operation. It’s important to monitor CPU temperature because excessive heat can negatively impact your computer’s performance and lifespan.
When the CPU gets hot, the computer’s fans will spin faster to try and cool it down. This can lead to increased noise levels from your computer. High CPU temperatures can also lead to shorter battery life on laptops, as the computer uses more power to cool the CPU.
There are two main ways to check your CPU’s temperature:
- Using your BIOS/UEFI: This method is the most basic and will only show you the temperature at that exact moment. It won’t track temperature over time.
Here’s how to access your BIOS/UEFI (the method may vary slightly depending on your motherboard):
- Restart your computer.
- As your computer starts, repeatedly press a specific key (usually Delete, F2, ESC, or F12) until you enter the BIOS/UEFI setup menu.
- Look for a section related to hardware monitoring or similar. This might be under “Hardware,” “Monitor,” or a specific menu for your motherboard brand.
- The CPU temperature should be displayed there in degrees Celsius (°C) or Fahrenheit (°F).
- Using a CPU temperature monitoring tool: This method is more convenient and allows you to monitor your CPU temperature in real-time, track it over time, and even set alerts for high temperatures.
Here are some popular free CPU temperature monitoring tools:
- Core Temp: https://www.alcpu.com/CoreTemp/ (Simple and lightweight)
- HWMonitor: https://www.cpuid.com/softwares/hwmonitor.html (More detailed system monitoring)
- Open Hardware Monitor: https://openhardwaremonitor.org/downloads/ (Open-source option with various sensor monitoring)
Here’s how to use a CPU temperature monitoring tool:
- Download and install the tool of your choice.
- Run the program.
- The CPU temperature will be displayed, usually in degrees Celsius (°C). You can also see other temperatures like motherboard temperature.
Safe CPU Temperature Range:
The safe temperature range for your CPU can vary depending on the specific model. Generally, anything under 70°C at idle and under 90°C under load is considered safe. However, it’s always best to consult your CPU’s specifications for the recommended temperature range.
Additional Tips:
- If your CPU temperature seems too high, there are ways to cool it down. This could involve improving airflow in your case, cleaning dust buildup, or replacing your thermal paste.
- Be aware that extremely high CPU temperatures can damage your CPU over time. If you’re concerned about your CPU temperature, it’s best to take steps to cool it down.