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How to check CPU temperature – 3 methods

Learn how you can easily monitor your CPU temps!

Reviewed By: Kevin Pocock

Last Updated on April 17, 2024
An Intel Core i9-13900K CPU installed in a motherboard socket, focusing on the detailed processor markings and CPU temperature. Image taken by PCguide.com
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If you want to learn how to check CPU temperature, then we’ve got you covered right here.

Keeping an eye on your CPU temperature is crucial for maintaining the health and efficiency of your computer. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a video editor, or someone who uses demanding applications, understanding how to monitor your CPU temperature can prevent overheating and ensure your system runs smoothly.

As Windows does not have a dedicated feature for monitoring temperatures, you’ll need to rely on third-party software. In this guide, we’ll mention three different software programs that can help you check CPU temperature quickly.


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Quick Answer

Windows does not have a dedicated feature for checking CPU temperature, so you need to use third-party software like HWiNFO64, HWMonitor, and Core Temp for the task.

How to monitor CPU temp

Here are different third-party software that can help you monitor your CPU temps.

HWiNFO64

The first software we would recommend for checking CPU temperature is HWiNFO64. This is an easy-to-use software that can help you monitor your CPU’s temperature.

After downloading and installing HWiNFO64 on your computer, open the program and click on the “Sensors” option. As you scroll through the list, you will find a section dedicated to CPU temperatures. Continuing further, you’ll also come across a section for the motherboard that similarly displays the CPU temperature.

HWiNFO64 CPU temp

HWMonitor

Another excellent software option for monitoring CPU temperature is HWMonitor. Similar to the previously mentioned application, HWMonitor offers an intuitive interface for easy temperature tracking. Once downloaded, all you have to do is launch HWMonitor, after which a window will pop up with all components and their respective temperatures. If you scroll down, you’ll find your CPU, and you can expand the list to learn about the temperature of each individual core as well.

Screenshot of hwmonitor application displaying Windows 11 CPU temperature and various hardware statistics for a computer system.

Core Temp

The third and final software we recommend for monitoring CPU temperature is Core Temp. This user-friendly application not only displays temperature readings but also shows the load on individual cores, all within a single, easily navigable window.

Screenshot of core temp application showing real-time CPU temperature and power usage data for an AMD Ryzen 5 5600X processor on Windows 11.

What sets Core Temp apart is its ability to display the temperature of each CPU core directly in the system tray. If you click on the arrow to view the hidden icons in the system tray, you’ll notice that there are a bunch of numbers. If you hover your mouse over them, you’ll see that these are the temperatures of individual CPU cores.

Screenshot of a Windows 11 computer desktop with various application icons and a CPU temperature widget showing "core 5: 54°C".

Is 70 degrees too hot for a CPU?

70 degrees isn’t really hot for a CPU. You should start worrying only after the temperature goes above 90 degrees. However, do keep in mind that during gaming and other resource-hungry tasks, the temperatures increase significantly.

Is your CPU always hot?

If your CPU temps are always high, even at idle, then there may be something wrong with your cooler. If you already have a PC case with good airflow, then it will be wise to invest in a decent CPU cooler, as it can help keep the processor cool. Here are a few options that we think are worth getting.

Conclusion

These were different methods that can help you check CPU temperature. During gaming or other demanding tasks, it is important to monitor the temperatures, as constant high temperatures can ruin the overall lifespan of the CPU and cause performance issues. You should also consider checking your CPU usage, as this can help you identify applications that are taking a toll on the processor.

Joel is a a lover of janky games, Magic the Gathering, and going down rabbit holes. For PC Guide he has written about peripherals, the Steam Deck, retro games, news and more.