Keeping an eye on your computer’s temperature is like checking your car’s dashboard — it tells you whether things are running smoothly or overheating. On Windows 11, knowing how to check temps (CPU, GPU, and overall system temperature) can save you from crashes, slowdowns, and costly hardware damage.
In this guide, we’ll walk you step by step through different methods — from built-in tools to third-party apps — so you’ll always know if your PC is running too hot.
Summary of Key Takeaways
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Why it matters: Monitoring system temperature prevents overheating, improves performance, and extends hardware lifespan.
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Quick check: Use Task Manager for CPU load but third-party apps for accurate temps.
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Best tools: HWMonitor, Core Temp, MSI Afterburner, and Windows PowerShell.
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Safe temps: CPUs usually stay safe under 80°C (176°F); GPUs under 85°C (185°F).
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Prevent overheating: Keep drivers updated, clean dust, use cooling pads, and manage background apps.
Why Should You Check Temps on Windows 11?
Imagine playing a game or editing videos, and suddenly your laptop fan sounds like a jet engine. That’s your PC screaming: “I’m hot!”
Benefits of Monitoring Temperatures
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Prevent overheating: Avoid sudden shutdowns or permanent damage.
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Improve performance: High temps cause thermal throttling, slowing down your PC.
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Extend lifespan: Heat shortens the life of CPUs, GPUs, and batteries.
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Diagnose issues early: Spot faulty fans, bad thermal paste, or poor airflow before it’s too late.
What Temperatures Are Considered Safe?
Every component has safe operating limits. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Component | Safe Idle Temp | Safe Under Load | Danger Zone |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPU | 30–50°C | 60–80°C | Above 90°C |
| GPU | 35–55°C | 65–85°C | Above 90°C |
| SSD/HDD | 25–40°C | 40–60°C | Above 70°C |
👉 If your temps regularly hit the danger zone, it’s time to troubleshoot cooling.
How to Check Temps on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Methods
There isn’t a single “temperature app” built into Windows 11, but you have multiple ways to check temps easily. Let’s go through them one by one.
Method 1: Using Task Manager (Quick Check)
Task Manager doesn’t show temps directly, but it helps you spot when your CPU or GPU is under heavy load.
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Press
Ctrl + Shift + Escto open Task Manager. -
Click on the Performance tab.
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Check CPU and GPU usage — high usage often means higher temps.
👉 Useful for quick monitoring, but not enough for exact temperature readings.
Method 2: Using Windows Settings (GPU Temperature)
Windows 11 shows GPU temperature in certain cases.
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Right-click the taskbar and select Task Manager.
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Go to the Performance tab.
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Select GPU from the left panel.
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Look under Temperature to see your GPU’s current temp (if supported).
⚠️ Note: This works mostly for dedicated GPUs (like NVIDIA/AMD), not integrated graphics.
Method 3: Using BIOS/UEFI Firmware
If your PC won’t boot into Windows or you want raw readings, BIOS/UEFI is handy.
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Restart your PC.
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Press the BIOS key (usually
F2,Del, orEsc) during startup. -
Look for Hardware Monitor, System Health, or PC Health Status.
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Check CPU/System temperatures.
👉 This method only shows basic CPU/system temps — not GPU.
Method 4: Using Windows PowerShell (Advanced Users)
You can run commands to check system health.
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Press
Win + S, type PowerShell, and run as Administrator. -
Enter the following command:
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Results appear in Kelvin × 10. To convert to Celsius:
👉 A bit geeky, but accurate if supported.
Method 5: Using Third-Party Tools (Most Accurate)
This is the best way to check temps on Windows 11. Here are some reliable tools:
✅ HWMonitor
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Free, lightweight, and detailed.
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Shows CPU, GPU, motherboard, and drive temps.
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Easy to read with color-coded alerts.
✅ Core Temp
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Specializes in CPU temps per core.
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Small footprint, minimal resources.
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Can add system tray temperature display.
✅ MSI Afterburner
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Best for gamers.
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Real-time GPU monitoring and overclocking.
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On-screen display while gaming.
✅ Speccy
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Clean interface showing CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage temps.
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Good for quick checks and reports.
👉 Most users find HWMonitor or Core Temp easiest to use.
Step-by-Step: Checking Temps with HWMonitor
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Download HWMonitor from the official site.
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Install and launch the program.
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Expand sections like CPU, GPU, or Drives.
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Check columns: Current, Min, and Max temps.
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Leave it running while gaming to track peak temps.
How to Lower High Temperatures in Windows 11
If you find your temps too high, here’s what you can do:
1. Improve Airflow
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Keep your PC/laptop on a flat surface.
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Clean dust from vents and fans.
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Add extra case fans if possible.
2. Use Cooling Pads (Laptops)
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A cooling pad can lower temps by 5–10°C.
3. Reapply Thermal Paste
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For desktops, replace old thermal paste every 2–3 years.
4. Control Background Apps
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Open Task Manager → Startup → Disable unnecessary apps.
5. Update Drivers and BIOS
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GPU/CPU driver updates improve efficiency.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Why is my CPU temperature so high?
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Dust buildup, poor airflow, or old thermal paste.
Why does my laptop overheat quickly?
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Laptops have tighter airflow, so gaming or heavy tasks can spike temps.
Can overheating damage hardware?
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Yes. Prolonged high temps reduce lifespan and may cause sudden shutdowns.
Best Practices for Safe Temperatures
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Keep idle CPU temps under 50°C.
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During gaming, CPU should stay below 80°C, GPU below 85°C.
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Use monitoring software regularly if you game, edit videos, or stream.
Conclusion
Now you know how to check temps on Windows 11 — whether you want a quick check in Task Manager, a deep dive with BIOS, or detailed readings with third-party apps. Monitoring your PC’s temperature is essential for performance, stability, and hardware longevity.
👉 Our recommendation: Download HWMonitor or Core Temp for easy, accurate monitoring.
Stay proactive, keep your PC cool, and enjoy smoother performance.
FAQs: How to Check Temps on Windows 11
1. Does Windows 11 have a built-in temperature monitor?
No. It only shows limited GPU temps. For detailed readings, use third-party tools.
2. What’s the easiest way to check CPU temperature?
Install Core Temp or HWMonitor — both give quick, accurate readings.
3. What’s a dangerous CPU temperature on Windows 11?
Anything above 90°C is risky and can cause throttling or damage.
4. Can I monitor temps while gaming?
Yes, tools like MSI Afterburner let you display temps in-game.
5. Do high temps affect battery life on laptops?
Yes. Overheating shortens battery lifespan and reduces efficiency.