OnSiteTech | PC Temperature Monitoring
Is Your Computer Running Hot?
Learn how to check CPU and GPU temperatures safely on Windows, understand what the sensors are telling you, and recognise when heat may be affecting your computer.
Use trusted monitoring tools, start with normal everyday workloads, and compare readings with the limits for your exact processor and graphics card. You do not need to open your computer just to check its temperature.
Prepared by OnSiteTech | Computer and Laptop Troubleshooting
How Do You Check CPU and GPU Temperatures Safely?
Quick AnswerDownload a trusted hardware-monitoring tool such as HWiNFO, open its sensor readings, and locate your CPU and GPU temperatures. Record the readings while the computer is idle, then check them again during your normal workload.
Compare the readings with the specifications for your exact CPU and GPU model. A single temperature number cannot determine whether every computer is overheating, because sensor types, hardware designs and workloads differ.
Start with ordinary use rather than a demanding stress test. If the computer repeatedly shuts down, slows down severely or shows other unusual symptoms, investigate the cooling system and other possible causes instead of relying on temperature alone.
Which Temperature Monitoring Tool Should You Use?
Choose a tool based on the readings you want to check. Download software only from its official website, and avoid changing performance settings if your goal is simply to monitor temperatures.
I want to see CPU and GPU sensors in one place
HWiNFO provides detailed sensor information for many supported processors, graphics cards and other components. Available readings depend on your specific hardware.
I only need a straightforward CPU temperature tool
Core Temp focuses on CPU temperature monitoring. It is not a complete GPU monitoring solution, so use a separate compatible tool for graphics-card readings.
I want to monitor GPU temperature while gaming
MSI Afterburner can display GPU temperature and other graphics-card information on supported hardware. You can use monitoring features without adjusting clock speed or voltage.
I do not want to install a monitoring tool
Some computers show a CPU temperature in BIOS or UEFI hardware-monitoring menus. Availability varies, and these readings do not continuously show what happens while Windows applications are running.
I think my computer is overheating and shutting down
Start by checking readings and ventilation, but remember that power, software and hardware faults can also cause shutdowns. If the issue recurs, see our laptop overheating and shutting down guide.
Best Tools to Check CPU and GPU Temperatures
| Tool | Best Use | Important Note |
|---|---|---|
| HWiNFO | Detailed CPU, GPU and system sensor readings | Available sensors depend on hardware and device support. |
| Core Temp | Focused CPU temperature monitoring | Use another compatible tool if you also need GPU temperatures. |
| MSI Afterburner | GPU monitoring, including an in-game display on supported setups | Monitoring does not require overclocking or voltage changes. |
| BIOS / UEFI | Basic temperature checks outside Windows, when available | Usually does not show temperatures during a normal Windows workload. |
Practical tipFor most people, a sensor tool is enough. You do not need to run a stress test, overclock the system or open the computer to get an initial understanding of CPU and GPU temperatures.
How to Check CPU Temperature on Windows 10 or Windows 11
Windows Task Manager is useful for checking CPU usage, but it is not a universal detailed CPU temperature monitor. A compatible hardware-monitoring tool is generally a better option when you need actual processor temperature readings.
Method 01 — CPU Temperature
Find Your CPU Sensor Readings
Step-by-Step
- Download a trusted monitoring tool from its official website.
- Install or open the tool according to its instructions.
- Open the Sensors view if the application provides one.
- Look for CPU package temperature, core temperatures or other processor sensors supported by your system.
- Let the computer sit without demanding tasks running, then record the current reading.
- Use the computer normally for a while and check the readings again.
- Review maximum values if the tool records them, and compare them with your exact processor’s specifications.
Different CPU sensors can show different values. A package temperature is not necessarily identical to an individual core temperature, so identify the sensor before interpreting its reading.
Can You Check CPU Temperature in BIOS or UEFI?
Some desktop and laptop manufacturers provide a hardware-monitoring page in BIOS or UEFI. It may display a CPU temperature and sometimes fan information. The available readings and menu names vary by manufacturer.
BIOS or UEFI readings can provide a basic reference, but they do not tell you how the CPU behaves during gaming, video editing or other demanding Windows tasks.
How to Check GPU Temperature
GPU temperatures are worth monitoring during gaming, video editing, 3D rendering and other graphics-intensive work. A compatible sensor tool can show the readings supported by your graphics card.
Method 02 — GPU Temperature
Check Graphics Card Temperature
Step-by-Step
- Open HWiNFO or another compatible GPU monitoring tool.
- Find the sensor readings associated with your graphics card.
- Look for the general GPU temperature and, if supported, the hotspot or junction temperature.
- Record the reading while the computer is idle.
- Run a normal game or graphics application that you already use.
- Check the readings again and compare them with the manufacturer’s specifications for your exact GPU.
GPU Temperature and Hotspot Temperature Are DifferentThe GPU hotspot reading represents a particularly warm area of the chip and may be higher than the general GPU temperature. Not every graphics card exposes the same sensors, and a missing sensor does not automatically indicate a fault.
How to Monitor Temperatures Safely
You can check temperatures without removing a heatsink, opening the computer or deliberately pushing it to its limits. Follow these basic precautions:
- Use official downloads. Avoid unfamiliar download pages, bundled installers and tools that ask you to disable security protections.
- Start with normal use. Check light workloads before observing readings during a demanding game or application.
- Do not change performance settings unnecessarily. Temperature monitoring does not require overclocking, voltage adjustments or aggressive fan-control changes.
- Keep vents clear. Place laptops on a firm, flat surface and avoid blocking ventilation openings.
- Watch for warning signs. Persistent extreme heat, unexpected shutdowns or unusual fan behaviour deserve attention.
- Stop if the device appears unsafe. Smoke, a burning smell or signs of battery damage require stopping use and seeking appropriate professional assistance.
Do Not Keep Repeating a ShutdownIf your computer repeatedly shuts down under load or appears severely overheated, do not keep forcing it through the same failure just to collect more readings. Let it cool, check ventilation and arrange diagnosis if the problem continues.
What CPU and GPU Temperatures Are Normal?
Normal temperatures depend on the exact processor or graphics card, device design, workload, room temperature and the sensor being reported. A thin laptop under a demanding workload may behave differently from a desktop PC performing light office tasks.
| Situation | How to Interpret the Reading |
|---|---|
| Idle or light use | Temperatures are generally lower than during demanding tasks, but background processes and room temperature affect readings. |
| Gaming or heavy workloads | Higher temperatures are expected. Compare values with the specifications for the exact CPU or GPU model. |
| Near the component’s thermal limit | Review manufacturer guidance and investigate persistent high readings, thermal throttling or shutdowns. |
| Unexpected shutdowns or severe slowdown | Heat is one possible cause, but power, hardware and software problems can produce similar symptoms. |
There is no single temperature number that proves every CPU or GPU is safe or overheating. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for your exact model and distinguish CPU package, CPU core, GPU core and GPU hotspot readings.
For additional background, see HP’s guide to checking CPU temperature and the documentation for your processor or graphics-card manufacturer.
Signs Your Computer May Be Overheating
A single high reading does not automatically mean that a component is broken. Look for a pattern of symptoms and consider the workload at the time.
- Fans run loudly for long periods: The cooling system may be working harder than usual.
- Performance drops during demanding tasks: The CPU or GPU may be reducing performance to manage heat, although other causes are possible.
- The computer shuts down unexpectedly: Thermal protection is one possible explanation, but power or hardware faults can cause similar symptoms.
- Temperatures stay unusually high: Readings persistently close to the component’s thermal limit warrant further investigation.
- The problem is becoming more frequent: Changes in fan noise, performance or shutdown behaviour can be more informative than one isolated reading.
If your laptop is overheating and shutting down, read our related guide: Laptop Overheating and Shutting Down? Causes and Fixes.
What to Do If CPU or GPU Temperatures Are Too High
If readings seem unusually high for your hardware, start with simple checks before assuming a component needs replacing.
Troubleshooting
Start With the Basics
- Check ventilation. Make sure the computer is on a firm surface and air vents are not blocked.
- Review the workload. Close unnecessary applications and check Task Manager for processes using unusually high CPU resources.
- Restart if appropriate. If an application appears stuck, save your work and perform a normal restart.
- Look for a pattern. Note whether the temperature rises during a specific game, application or task.
- Check manufacturer guidance. Use specifications for your exact hardware rather than a generic temperature chart.
- Arrange an inspection if needed. Persistent overheating, shutdowns or abnormal fan behaviour may require a cooling-system or hardware diagnosis.
Dust buildup, a failing fan, poor heat transfer, firmware settings and other hardware problems can require different solutions. Avoid opening the computer or removing internal cooling components if you are not equipped to do so safely.
If the issue occurs on a laptop, our Laptop Repair service is a starting point for investigating overheating, performance problems and unexpected shutdowns.
CPU and GPU Temperature Check Checklist
Use this checklist to organise your checks. Ticking a box is for your own reference; it does not automatically diagnose your computer.
This checklist does not inspect your computer or save temperature readings.
When Should You Get Professional Help?
Monitoring software tells you what supported sensors report; it cannot confirm on its own that a fan, heatsink, processor or graphics card has failed.
Consider professional troubleshooting if:
- The computer repeatedly shuts down or restarts under load.
- Temperatures remain close to manufacturer limits during ordinary workloads.
- Fans do not behave normally or cooling performance has changed.
- Performance has deteriorated alongside persistent high temperatures.
- You cannot determine whether the cause is cooling, software, power delivery or another component.
LAPTOP SUPPORT
Laptop Repair
Explore support for laptop overheating, slow performance and unexpected shutdowns.
DESKTOP SUPPORT
Computer Repair
Review troubleshooting options for desktop PC problems and hardware symptoms.
SERVICE PROCESS
How On-Site Repair Works
Learn about the process for requesting computer support.
PRICING
Repair Pricing
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Calgary & Surrounding Communities
Computer Troubleshooting in Calgary and Nearby Areas
If you need help investigating high temperatures or recurring shutdowns, OnSiteTech’s geographic service plan includes Calgary and selected surrounding communities. Confirm appointment availability and travel arrangements before booking.
Listed communities are part of the geographic plan. Actual service availability, appointments and travel costs depend on confirmation for your location.
Frequently Asked Questions About CPU and GPU Temperatures
Can I check CPU temperature in Windows without downloading software?
Sometimes. A computer’s BIOS or UEFI may show a CPU temperature, depending on the manufacturer. It usually does not provide continuous monitoring while Windows applications are running, so compatible monitoring software is often more useful.
Can Task Manager show CPU temperature?
Task Manager is useful for CPU and GPU usage information, but it is not a universal detailed CPU temperature monitor. Use compatible hardware-monitoring software for CPU sensor readings.
How do I check CPU and GPU temperatures at the same time?
A tool such as HWiNFO can display CPU and GPU sensor readings in one place when the hardware is supported. Check that each reading belongs to the correct component.
Is 90°C too hot for a CPU?
It depends on the processor model, workload and sensor reading. Some CPUs can operate at high temperatures under heavy loads, while other situations may indicate a cooling problem. Check your exact processor specifications and investigate persistent high temperatures or unexpected shutdowns.
Is 80°C too hot for a GPU?
Not necessarily. GPU temperature limits vary by model, and core and hotspot readings can differ. Compare the reading with your graphics card manufacturer’s specifications and watch for thermal throttling or other unusual behaviour.
Why does my laptop get hot while gaming?
Games can place heavy demands on the CPU and GPU, increasing heat output and fan speed. If the laptop also slows down significantly, shuts down or stays unusually hot, check ventilation and investigate the symptoms.
Can high temperatures damage my computer?
Modern processors and graphics cards have thermal-management protections, but persistent overheating should not be ignored. Repeated thermal problems can affect performance and may indicate that the cooling system needs attention.
Should I run a stress test to check temperatures?
Not for a basic temperature check. Start by monitoring normal workloads. If further testing is necessary, use an appropriate diagnostic method and stop if the computer behaves abnormally.
What if my computer shuts down when it gets hot?
Overheating is one possible cause, but power problems, hardware faults and software issues can also cause shutdowns. Let the device cool, check ventilation and seek diagnosis if the problem continues. Avoid repeatedly forcing it through the same failure.
Does a high GPU hotspot mean the graphics card is broken?
Not automatically. The hotspot measures a particularly warm area and can be higher than the general GPU temperature. Compare the reading with the manufacturer’s guidance for the exact graphics card and look for other symptoms.
Technical References
This guide is intended to help users understand available temperature-monitoring tools and recognise when further troubleshooting may be appropriate. Sensor availability and thermal limits vary by device and component.
- HWiNFO — Official Download
- Core Temp — Official Website
- MSI Afterburner — Official Page
- HP — How to Check CPU Temperature
Always compare readings with the documentation for your specific processor or graphics card. A temperature-monitoring tool is a diagnostic aid, not a definitive hardware-failure test.
OnSiteTech | Calgary & Area
Need Help With an Overheating Computer?
If your computer is running hot, slowing down or shutting down unexpectedly, start by checking the available temperature sensors and recording when the symptoms occur.
- Review laptop and desktop troubleshooting options.
- Investigate recurring heat and performance symptoms.
- Confirm the service scope and appointment availability before proceeding.
Service availability and pricing depend on the confirmed service scope. No specific repair outcome is guaranteed before diagnosis.
Educational information only. Use trusted monitoring tools and manufacturer documentation. Do not open or modify internal components unless you are equipped to do so safely.