How To Check Temperature Of Cpu – A Complete Guide!
You can check CPU temperature using BIOS/UEFI, third-party software like Core Temp, motherboard software, or Task Manager for indirect monitoring of CPU activity.
This article will explain how to check the temperature of your CPU, why it’s important, and how to keep it under control.
Why Is It Important to Check Your CPU Temperature?
Before diving into how to check the temperature, let’s understand why it’s so important. Your CPU, or central processing unit, is the brain of your computer. It processes all the tasks and data necessary for your system to function. Like any other component, the CPU generates heat during operation.
If the CPU gets too hot, it can cause several problems:
- Reduced Performance: High temperatures can make your CPU throttle down its speed to avoid overheating, which results in slower performance.
- System Instability: Overheating can cause your computer to freeze, crash, or even shut down unexpectedly.
- Hardware Damage: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can damage your CPU and other components, leading to permanent damage.
Therefore, regularly checking your CPU temperature helps you avoid these risks and keep your computer running smoothly.
How to Check the Temperature of Your CPU: Methods
There are several methods to check the temperature of your CPU. Some are built into your computer’s BIOS/UEFI, while others require third-party software. Let’s go through each of them.
Using BIOS/UEFI to Check CPU Temperature:
To check CPU temperature in BIOS/UEFI, restart your computer and press the appropriate key (Delete, F2, or Esc) to enter the settings. Look for sections like Hardware Monitor or PC Health Status to find the CPU temperature. It’s typically displayed in Celsius. While this method provides a quick snapshot, it doesn’t offer real-time monitoring. BIOS/UEFI is a good option for initial temperature checks but lacks detailed, continuous monitoring during usage.
Using Third-Party Software to Monitor CPU Temperature:
For real-time CPU temperature monitoring, third-party software like Core Temp, HWMonitor, and SpeedFan is ideal. Core Temp shows each CPU core’s temperature and sends alerts if limits are exceeded. HWMonitor provides detailed sensor information, including minimum and maximum temperatures. SpeedFan not only monitors CPU temperature but also lets you adjust fan speeds for better cooling. These tools offer continuous monitoring, which is essential for managing your CPU’s temperature under load.
Also read: What Is A Cpu Do – Understanding the Brain of Your Computer!
Using Task Manager to Check CPU Usage (Indirect Temperature Monitoring):
Although Task Manager doesn’t show the CPU temperature, it can help gauge CPU load, indirectly indicating temperature changes. To use it, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager, go to the Performance tab, and observe the CPU usage. High CPU usage usually corresponds to higher temperatures, especially during heavy tasks like gaming or rendering. This can help estimate when to monitor temperature with dedicated tools to ensure safe levels.
Using Your Motherboard’s Software:
Many modern motherboards come with proprietary software for system monitoring, including CPU temperature. ASUS AI Suite, MSI Dragon Center, and Gigabyte’s SIV are some examples. These programs provide real-time CPU temperature readings and other system information like fan speed. These utilities often allow for easier access to system health metrics without needing third-party software, making it convenient to monitor CPU performance and temperature directly from the motherboard manufacturer’s tools.
How can I check my CPU temperature without an app?
To check your CPU temperature without using an app, you can use your computer’s BIOS/UEFI. First, restart your computer and press the required key (usually Delete, F2, or Esc) during startup to enter the BIOS/UEFI settings. Once inside, navigate to a section like Hardware Monitor, PC Health, or something similar, where you should find the CPU temperature listed. This method provides a quick way to check the temperature, but it does not allow for real-time monitoring while the system is running.
How to Reduce High CPU Temperatures:
If you find that your CPU is running hot, there are several steps you can take to reduce the temperature:
Clean Your Computer:
- Dust can block airflow and hinder cooling.
- Turn off and unplug your computer before cleaning.
- Use compressed air to clean fans, vents, and heatsinks.
- Ensure all dust is cleared to improve airflow.
- Regular cleaning helps maintain effective cooling and lower temperatures.
Reapply Thermal Paste:
- Thermal paste improves heat transfer between the CPU and cooler.
- Over time, it can dry out and lose effectiveness.
- Remove the cooler and clean off the old thermal paste.
- Apply a fresh layer of thermal paste for better heat dissipation.
- Reapplying thermal paste can lower CPU temperatures significantly.
Improve Case Airflow:
- Good airflow is essential for effective cooling.
- Add extra fans to improve air circulation inside the case.
- Rearrange cables to reduce airflow obstructions.
- Ensure there is enough intake and exhaust for air movement.
- Efficient airflow reduces heat buildup inside the case.
Upgrade Your CPU Cooler:
- If your current cooler is insufficient, upgrade to a better one.
- Consider high-performance air coolers or liquid cooling systems.
- A more powerful cooler can drastically lower CPU temperatures.
- Ensure your new cooler is compatible with your CPU socket.
- Upgrading the cooler helps maintain lower temperatures during heavy loads.
Also read: What Are The Registers In A Cpu – Enhancing Speed, Efficiency, and Modern Computing!
Overclocking Considerations:
- Overclocking increases CPU heat output.
- If temperatures are too high, reduce the overclock settings.
- Use a more efficient cooling solution for overclocked systems.
- Monitor CPU temperatures closely while overclocking.
- Maintaining proper cooling is crucial for safe and stable overclocking.
How can I check my CPU temperature?
- BIOS/UEFI: Restart your computer, press the required key (usually Delete or F2) to enter BIOS/UEFI.Navigate to sections like Hardware Monitor or PC Health to find CPU temperature.
- Third-Party Software: Install tools like Core Temp, HWMonitor, or SpeedFan to track CPU temperature in real-time. These programs provide detailed readings for each core and alert you if temperatures exceed safe levels.
- Task Manager: Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), go to the Performance tab, and check CPU usage. High usage can indicate elevated temperatures, helping estimate the system’s workload and temperature.
- Motherboard Software: Use motherboard-specific software such as ASUS AI Suite or MSI Dragon Center. These tools offer real-time monitoring of CPU temperature and other system parameters, providing convenience for regular checks.
How to check CPU temperature in Task Manager?
Task Manager does not directly show your CPU temperature, but it can help you monitor CPU activity, which correlates with temperature changes. To check CPU activity, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, then navigate to the Performance tab. Here, you’ll see the CPU usage percentages, which indicate how much load your CPU is under. Higher usage typically leads to higher temperatures. However, for actual temperature readings, you’ll need to use third-party software like HWMonitor or Core Temp.
FAQ’s
1. How can I check my CPU temperature?
You can check the CPU temperature through BIOS/UEFI, third-party software like Core Temp, or motherboard utilities like ASUS AI Suite.
2. Can I check CPU temperature without any app?
Yes, access BIOS/UEFI settings during startup to view CPU temperature under the Hardware Monitor or PC Health sections without needing third-party apps.
3. What is a safe CPU temperature?
Safe CPU temperatures range between 30°C-60°C at idle and 70°C-80°C under heavy load, depending on the specific CPU model and its cooling.
4. How can I reduce high CPU temperatures?
Clean dust, reapply thermal paste, improve airflow, upgrade the cooler, and reduce overclocking to maintain optimal CPU temperatures and prevent overheating.
5. Does the Task Manager show CPU temperature?
Task Manager doesn’t show CPU temperature, but it displays CPU usage. Use third-party software like Core Temp or HWMonitor to monitor the actual temperature.
Conclusion
Checking your CPU temperature is essential for performance and preventing damage. You can monitor it through BIOS, third-party software, or motherboard tools. Keeping the temperature under control by cleaning dust, reapplying thermal paste, improving airflow, or upgrading the cooler helps maintain system stability. Regular monitoring ensures your CPU functions properly and avoids overheating or hardware failure.
