Your CPU temperature is one of the most important things to keep an eye on if you want your Windows 11 computer to run smoothly. When your processor gets too hot, it can slow down, crash, or even damage your hardware. But don’t worry—it’s easy to monitor your CPU temp using built-in options and free tools.
In this guide, I’ll show you simple steps to check CPU temperature in Windows 11, why it matters, and the best tools to monitor it.
Why Monitor CPU Temperature in Windows 11?
Your CPU is like the “engine” of your computer—it works hard, and it gets hot. Keeping an eye on its temperature helps you:
- Prevent overheating and system crashes
- Improve gaming performance
- Increase your PC’s lifespan
- Detect cooling issues early
What Is a Safe CPU Temperature?
- Idle (no heavy apps running): 30°C – 50°C (86°F – 122°F)
- Normal usage (browsing, office work): 50°C – 70°C (122°F – 158°F)
- Gaming or heavy load: 70°C – 85°C (158°F – 185°F)
- Danger zone: Above 90°C (194°F) – risk of throttling or shutdown
Method 1: Check CPU Temp in BIOS/UEFI
Windows 11 doesn’t show CPU temperature directly in Task Manager, but you can check it from BIOS/UEFI.
- Restart your computer.
- While it boots, press the BIOS key (usually F2, Del, Esc, or F10).
- Go to the Hardware Monitor, H/W Monitor, or System Health section.
- You’ll see your CPU temperature listed.
👉 Downside: This only works before Windows loads, so you can’t monitor temps while gaming.
Method 2: Use Task Manager (Indirectly)
Windows 11 Task Manager doesn’t show CPU temps, but it helps monitor CPU usage and performance. If your usage is high and your PC feels hot, temps might be climbing.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
- Click the Performance tab.
- Select CPU to monitor load and speed.
👉 For actual temperature readings, you’ll need third-party tools.
Method 3: Use Third-Party Tools (Best Option)
1. Core Temp
- Lightweight and simple
- Shows each CPU core’s temperature
- Free download: Core Temp
2. HWMonitor
- Displays CPU, GPU, and motherboard temps
- Great for full system monitoring
3. Open Hardware Monitor
- Free, open-source option
- Lets you track CPU temp, fan speed, and voltage
4. MSI Afterburner (for gamers)
- Popular with gamers
- Monitors CPU and GPU temps in real-time while gaming
Method 4: Use Manufacturer Software
Many laptop and motherboard brands include their own monitoring software:
- Intel Extreme Tuning Utility (XTU) – for Intel CPUs
- AMD Ryzen Master – for AMD Ryzen CPUs
- Dell/HP/ASUS tools – often pre-installed on laptops
These apps give accurate CPU temp readings optimized for your hardware.
How to Keep CPU Temperature Low in Windows 11
If you notice high temps, here’s how to cool things down:
- Clean your laptop/PC fans (dust traps heat)
- Improve airflow by keeping vents clear
- Use a cooling pad for laptops
- Reapply thermal paste if your PC is a few years old
- Close background apps when gaming or editing videos
- Keep your drivers updated for better performance
Signs Your CPU Is Overheating
- Loud fan noise
- Sudden shutdowns or restarts
- Laggy performance
- High CPU usage even with light apps
If you notice these symptoms, check your CPU temp immediately.
Final Thoughts
Monitoring your CPU temperature in Windows 11 is easy once you know how. While Task Manager doesn’t show temps, you can check them via BIOS, third-party tools like Core Temp, or manufacturer utilities.
Keep your CPU cool with proper cleaning, good airflow, and regular monitoring. A cool CPU is a happy CPU—and that means a faster, longer-lasting computer.
FAQs
1. Does Windows 11 show CPU temperature in Task Manager?
No, Task Manager doesn’t display CPU temps. You need BIOS or third-party software.
2. What’s the best free tool to monitor CPU temp?
Core Temp and HWMonitor are popular, lightweight, and accurate.
3. Is 90°C too hot for a CPU?
Yes—90°C is dangerous. Your PC may throttle or shut down to prevent damage.
4. Can I see CPU temperature without installing software?
Yes, but only in BIOS/UEFI—not while running Windows.
5. How often should I check my CPU temp?
If you’re gaming or editing, check regularly. For normal use, once in a while is enough.