If your computer is running hot, loud or slow, checking your CPU temperature is the first step to diagnosing it. Windows and Mac don’t show it by default, but it’s easy to read with a free tool. Here’s how.
| Time | About 5 minutes |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| You’ll need | A free monitoring app |
| Normal range | ~30–45°C idle, under ~80°C load |
How to check your CPU temperature (Windows)
- Download a free monitoring tool. Popular, trusted options include Core Temp, HWMonitor and HWiNFO. Get them from the official website to avoid bundled junk.
- Install and open the app. It will immediately display your processor’s temperature, usually per core plus an overall “package” reading.
- Read the idle temperature. With nothing demanding running, a healthy CPU usually sits around 30–45°C.
- Check it under load. Open a game or run a stress test and watch the temperature climb. Staying under about 80–85°C under heavy load is generally fine.
How to check CPU temperature on a Mac
macOS has no built-in temperature display, so use a third-party app such as iStat Menus or a similar monitor. On modern Apple Silicon Macs, thermals are very well managed, so high temperatures are rarely a concern during normal use.
Check it in the BIOS (no software)
You can also restart your PC and enter the BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing Delete, F2 or F10 at startup). Many boards show the CPU temperature on the main screen. This reflects an idle temperature only, since you’re not in Windows.
What’s a normal CPU temperature?
As a rough guide: 30–45°C at idle is healthy, up to about 80°C under heavy load is normal, and consistently above 90°C signals a cooling problem worth fixing. Laptops tend to run hotter than desktops because of tighter cooling.
FAQ
What is a safe CPU temperature?
Around 30–45°C when idle and up to roughly 80°C under load is fine for most processors. Sustained temperatures above 90°C mean you should improve cooling.
Does Windows show CPU temperature?
Not in a standard, obvious way, which is why a free tool like Core Temp or HWMonitor is the easiest method. The BIOS also shows it at startup.
Why is my CPU running so hot?
Common causes are dust-clogged fans, poor airflow, dried-out thermal paste, an overloaded processor, or a laptop used on a soft surface that blocks vents.
