Keeping an eye on your CPU temperature helps you avoid overheating, throttling, or sudden shutdowns. Windows 10 doesn’t show CPU temp natively, but you can check it with built-in firmware tools or lightweight monitoring apps.
Below, you’ll see the fastest methods to read CPU temperature and the tools that offer the most accurate results.
1) Check temperature in BIOS/UEFI
Your BIOS shows the CPU temperature without installing anything. This works even when Windows fails to boot.
Shutdown your PC and power it back on. Next, keep pressing the BIOS key (Del, F2, Esc, or F10) for your PC immediately after the manufacturer's logo shows up.
When you enter the BIOS, open the Hardware Monitor or PC Health section and read the CPU temperature value.
2) How to monitor CPU temperature with manufacturer tools
Intel and AMD provide utilities that read temperature values accurately. These tools work well if you prefer software directly from the CPU maker.
Check temp with Intel tools
Intel apps show real-time usage, temperature, and frequency. They also allow you to change fan speed, the Extreme app helps with overclocking, and so much more. What's more, they fit any PC with an Intel processor.
Check temp with AMD tools
AMD provides temperature readings for Ryzen processors and APUs. You also get voltage and clock information.
3) Check CPU temp using third-party tools
Third-party tools like Core Temp, HWMonitor, and HWiNFO give you accurate readings with a simple dashboard. They show per-core temperatures and load levels.
Using Core Temp
Download the installer from the official provider and install it following the onscreen instructions. Next, launch the app and look at the Temperatures section. Now, check each core under Current, Min, and Max and watch the Load column to see how hard the CPU works.
Using HWMonitor
Install HWMonitor like any other Windows desktop utility and launch the app. Next, scroll to your CPU model in the left panel and expand the Temperatures section. From here, read the current, minimum, and maximum values.
Using HWiNFO
Install HWiNFO and select Sensors Only at launch. Now, scroll to your CPU’s temperature sensors and click the Logging icon. Save readings to a CSV file while you work or game.
4) What are normal CPU temperatures on Windows 10?
Idle temperatures stay between 30°C and 45°C. Light workloads range from 50°C to 65°C. Gaming or editing can push the CPU to 70°C–85°C, depending on the cooler.
Values near 90°C+ often signal airflow issues, dust, or heavy background load.
5) How to fix high CPU temperature on Windows 10
- Clean dust and improve airflow: Dust restricts airflow and traps heat. Clean vents, fans, and filters with compressed air.
- Close high usage processes: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc and open the Processes tab. Next, sort by CPU and close apps you don’t need.
- Reapply thermal paste or upgrade cooling: If your PC is a few years old, the thermal paste may have dried out. Reapplying it or upgrading your cooler helps stabilize temperatures.
Tips for monitoring CPU temp on Windows 10
- Check temperatures once a week to catch early problems.
- Keep your desk area clean, and avoid blocking vents on laptops.
- Use logging features to spot long-term changes.
FAQs
Why doesn’t Windows 10 show CPU temperature? Windows 10 doesn’t include a built-in temperature widget. Firmware and third-party apps fill that gap.
Are monitoring apps safe? Yes, as long as you use reputable apps. Internal scans in the Microsoft ecosystem recognize the major tools as safe.
Can I check CPU temp on a laptop? Yes. All the apps above work on laptops. Just watch for higher idle temps due to compact cooling systems.
Summary
- BIOS/UEFI gives basic temperature readings.
- Core Temp, HWMonitor, and HWiNFO offer real-time values.
- Normal temps range between 30°C and 85°C depending on load.
- Cleaning, airflow, and closing heavy apps reduce heat.
Conclusion
Monitoring CPU temperature on Windows 10 keeps your system stable and responsive. Use BIOS for quick checks or a monitoring app for real-time readings, and maintain your PC to prevent overheating issues.
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