Although Windows 11 doesn’t include a built-in feature to monitor the processor temperature, there are several reliable ways to check how hot or cool your CPU is running. Monitoring CPU temperature is important to ensure your system is operating within safe limits, especially during demanding tasks such as gaming, video editing, or heavy multitasking.
On Windows 11, you can check the processor temperature using third-party monitoring tools like HWiNFO, Core Temp, and HWMonitor. These applications are widely trusted and can also provide additional information about other components, including the graphics card, motherboard, memory, power usage, and cooling sensors. Each tool offers a different level of detail—HWiNFO provides the most comprehensive data, Core Temp is the simplest to use, and HWMonitor strikes a balance between the two.
Alternatively, you can also view the CPU temperature from the system’s UEFI (commonly referred to as the BIOS). However, this method only shows the temperature when the system is idle and not under load, which limits its usefulness for real-world performance checks.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to check the CPU temperature on Windows 11 using apps and through the BIOS.
Ways to check CPU temperature on Windows 11
You can determine the processor temperature using the following methods:
- Check CPU temperature using third-party apps
- Check CPU temperature from the BIOS (UEFI)
Check CPU temperature on Windows 11 using apps
Since Windows 11 doesn’t natively display CPU temperature, third-party monitoring tools are the most practical solution. Below are three popular and reliable options.
1. Check CPU temperature using HWiNFO
HWiNFO is one of the most powerful system-monitoring tools available. It provides real-time information about the CPU, GPU, memory, fans, voltages, power usage, and more. While the amount of data may feel overwhelming for some users, it’s an excellent choice if you want detailed insights into your system’s thermals. The app is free to use, with a paid version offering extra features.
Install HWiNFO on Windows 11
- Open Start
- Search for Command Prompt
- Right-click the top result and select Run as administrator
- Type the following command and press Enter:
winget install --id REALiX.HWiNFO
Check CPU temperature with HWiNFO
- Open Start
- Search for HWiNFO and open the app
- Select the Sensors-only option
- Click Start
- Expand CPU [#0]
- Look for:
- CPU (Tctl/Tdie) on AMD systems
- CPU Package on Intel systems
This reading shows the current processor temperature in real time.
HWiNFO also allows you to log temperature data in the background. You can enable logging, perform tasks such as gaming, and later review temperature changes using the generated CSV file.
2. Check CPU temperature using Core Temp
Core Temp is a lightweight and beginner-friendly tool designed specifically to monitor CPU temperature. It displays essential information such as processor model, frequency, load, power usage, and temperature without overwhelming the user.
Install Core Temp on Windows 11
- Open Start
- Search for Command Prompt
- Right-click the top result and select Run as administrator
- Run the following command:
winget install --id ALCPU.CoreTemp
View CPU temperature with Core Temp
- Open Start
- Search for Core Temp
- Open the app
- Check the readings under the Temperature Readings section
The app shows the current, minimum, and maximum temperatures since the application was launched.
3. Check CPU temperature using HWMonitor
HWMonitor, developed by CPUID, offers a clean, Task Manager–like interface that displays temperature, voltage, clock speeds, and fan information for your system components. It’s less detailed than HWiNFO but more informative than Core Temp, making it a solid middle-ground option.
Install HWMonitor on Windows 11
- Open Start
- Search for Command Prompt
- Right-click the top result and select Run as administrator
- Run the following command:
winget install --id CPUID.HWMonitor
Check CPU temperature with HWMonitor
- Open Start
- Search for HWMonitor
- Open the app
- Expand the CPU section
- Locate the Temperature entries
Depending on your processor, you may see temperatures for individual cores, packages, or P-cores and E-cores on newer Intel CPUs.
Check CPU temperature on Windows 11 from BIOS (UEFI)
You can also view the processor temperature directly from the motherboard’s UEFI firmware. This method is commonly available on custom-built PCs and systems with branded motherboards from manufacturers such as ASUS, MSI, ASRock, and Gigabyte.
Check CPU temperature from BIOS
- Open Settings
- Click System
- Select Recovery
- Under Advanced startup, click Restart now
- Click Troubleshoot
- Select Advanced options
- Click UEFI Firmware Settings
- Click Restart
Once the system boots into the UEFI interface, the CPU temperature is usually displayed on the main or hardware monitoring page.
Keep in mind that UEFI designs vary by manufacturer, so the temperature information may appear in different locations.
BIOS vs apps: what’s the difference?
Checking CPU temperature from the BIOS shows readings when the system is idle and under minimal load. In contrast, third-party apps allow you to monitor temperatures while Windows 11 is running and the processor is under real workload conditions. For most users, app-based monitoring provides more useful and accurate insights into everyday performance and cooling efficiency.
What is a safe CPU temperature?
Safe CPU temperatures vary depending on the processor model and manufacturer, but general guidelines include:
- Idle: 30°C–50°C (86°F–122°F)
- Normal load: 40°C–80°C (104°F–176°F)
- High load: Up to 95°C (203°F) is typically safe for short periods
Intel processors often run hotter than AMD processors, and desktop CPUs usually operate at higher temperatures than laptop CPUs due to higher power limits.
While Windows 11 doesn’t offer a built-in way to check CPU temperature, reliable third-party tools like HWiNFO, Core Temp, and HWMonitor make it easy to monitor processor thermals in real time. These apps provide valuable insights that help prevent overheating, improve performance, and extend hardware lifespan. Although the BIOS can also display temperature information, monitoring the CPU while Windows is running gives a more accurate picture of how your system performs under real workloads.
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