Best CPU Temperature Monitoring Utilities For Linux and Windows

Keeping an eye on your CPU’s temperature is more than just a good habit; it’s like giving your computer a health check and ensuring it runs at its best. When temperatures go haywire, it’s not just a glitch; it could lead to system crashes, data loss, or even permanent damage to your hardware.

If you are looking to prevent critical infrastructure from going down, having a reliable CPU temp monitor is a MUST.

A study found that the lifespan of a CPU can be significantly reduced if it operates at temperatures consistently above 80°C.

But with so many options out there, it can feel like navigating through a tech jungle. Don’t worry, though! This blog post will guide you through the top CPU temperature monitoring tools in 2024, considering different needs. It’s your go-to resource for finding the best fit without diving too deep into the tech jargon.

Get ready for a straightforward exploration of the coolest tools for monitoring CPU temperature!

Factors That Can Raise CPU Temperatures

There are several reasons why your CPU temperature might rise, ranging from normal operation to potentially serious issues. Here are some common culprits:

Intensive Tasks:

• Heavy workload: Running resource-intensive applications, such as video editing software, 3D rendering, or complex simulations, can put a heavy load on the CPU, causing it to generate more heat. This can push your CPU to its limits, generating significant heat.
• Multiple programs running: Even without demanding tasks, running multiple programs simultaneously can put increased strain on the CPU, leading to temperature spikes.
• Background processes: Certain background processes like antivirus scans or automatic updates can also put temporary strain on the CPU and raise its temperature.

Hardware Issues:

• Faulty fan: A malfunctioning or clogged fan can significantly impact your CPU’s cooling ability, resulting in overheating.
• Insufficient or Dried-out thermal paste: Thermal paste transfers heat from the CPU to the heatsink. Over time, it can dry out and lose its effectiveness, leading to higher temperatures.
• Insufficient airflow: Poor case ventilation or dust buildup can restrict airflow within your PC, preventing effective heat dissipation from the CPU.
• Overclocking: Overclocking, or running the CPU at a higher clock speed than its default settings, increases the workload and generates more heat. Without proper cooling, this can lead to temperature spikes..

High temperatures can lead to system crashes and instability: If the CPU gets too hot, it can shut down the system to prevent damage. This can be frustrating and cause data loss.

Software Issues:

• Malware: Some malware can utilize your CPU for its own purposes, like mining cryptocurrency, leading to increased temperatures.
• Outdated drivers: Outdated CPU drivers can sometimes lead to inefficient power management or performance issues, potentially increasing CPU temperature.
• BIOS settings: Improper BIOS settings for fan curves or CPU voltage could hinder your cooling capabilities and contribute to overheating.
• Background Processes and Poorly Written Applications: Unnecessary background processes or programs can consume CPU resources, resulting in higher temperatures. Closing unused applications can alleviate this issue.

Environmental Factors:

• Ambient temperature: The external temperature in the environment where the computer is located can influence CPU temperature. High room temperatures can make it more challenging for the cooling system to keep the CPU cool.
• Direct sunlight: Exposing your PC to direct sunlight can significantly increase its internal temperature.
• Dust accumulation on components can also impede heat dissipation.

CPU Temp Monitoring Tools Feature Comparison Table

Benchmarks often showcase significant performance gains when keeping CPU temperatures lower, especially for overclocked systems.

CoreTemp

Core Temp is a monitoring utility with a small footprint that provides real-time insights into the thermal performance of your processor. With support for a wide range of CPUs from various manufacturers, Core Temp displays the temperature of each individual core, allowing users to track and analyze heat levels accurately.

The user-friendly interface presents essential information, such as current temperature, maximum temperature reached, and load percentages. Core Temp also features customizable alerts, ensuring users are promptly notified if temperatures exceed predefined thresholds.

Website

Real-Time Temperature Monitoring

Support for a Wide Range of CPUs

Detailed Core Information

Customizable Temperature Alerts

User Friendly Interface

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Features

1. Real-Time Temperature Monitoring:
   • Core Temp provides users with up-to-the-moment data on the temperature of each individual CPU core, offering a comprehensive overview of thermal performance. This real-time monitoring is crucial for users to assess and respond to any potential overheating issues promptly.
2. Support for a Wide Range of CPUs:
   • Core Temp is designed to be compatible with an extensive array of CPUs from different manufacturers. This versatility ensures that users with diverse computer configurations can benefit from accurate temperature readings and monitoring capabilities, irrespective of the processor brand.
3. Detailed Core Information:
   • The utility offers in-depth information about each core, including the current temperature, maximum temperature reached, and the load percentage on each core. This detailed data empowers users to understand how their CPU is performing under various workloads.
4. Customizable Temperature Alerts:
   • Core Temp allows users to set customizable temperature alerts, providing a proactive approach to system maintenance. If temperatures surpass user-defined thresholds, the utility triggers alerts, allowing users to take preventive measures and avoid potential overheating-related issues.

How to Install CoreTemp

• Download Installer: Got to URL https://www.alcpu.com/CoreTemp/., to download the latest core-temp installer.
• Run CoreTemp: You can run the program at the end of the install or later by clicking on the CoreTemp shortcut.

GLANCES

Glances is a versatile CPU temperature monitoring utility with a user-friendly interface and cross-platform compatibility. It provides real-time information on CPU temperatures and offers a comprehensive view of various system metrics, including memory usage and disk activity. The utility is suitable for users with diverse technical expertise and features customizable alerts for proactive temperature management on different operating systems.

WEBSITE

Customizable alerts and notifications

Comprehensive system metrics

Multi-platform

Real-time monitoring

User friendly interface

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Features

1. Customizable Alerts and Notifications: Glances features customizable alerts and notifications, allowing users to set thresholds for CPU temperature. When these thresholds are exceeded, users receive timely alerts, empowering them to take proactive measures to prevent potential overheating issues.
2. Comprehensive System Metrics: In addition to CPU temperature, Glances provides a holistic view of various system metrics, including memory usage, disk activity, and network performance, consolidating crucial information in one centralized interface.
3. Multi-Platform Compatibility: Glances supports multiple operating systems, including Linux, Windows, and macOS, providing a universal solution for users with diverse system configurations.
4. Real-Time Monitoring: The utility offers real-time monitoring of CPU temperatures, enabling users to promptly identify and address any abnormal temperature spikes or fluctuations.
5. User-Friendly Interface: Glances ensures accessibility for users of all technical levels. The straightforward design makes it easy for both casual users and system administrators to navigate and interpret the data.

How to Install Glances on Windows

• Install Python
• Install Curses: pip install windows-curses
• Install Glances: pip install glances
• Run Glances by typing glances in Windows command line and pressing enter.
• Optional: To run glances in web mode run the utility by entering glances -w in a command line window. You can access the web interface by going to the UR http://127.0.0.1:61208/. [To run in web mode you need additional Python package. Install it by typing pip install bottle at the command prompt.

sudo apt update
sudo apt install snapd

sudo snap install gnome-system-monitor

HWiNFO

HWINFO is a powerhouse CPU temperature monitoring utility that delves deep into your system, providing comprehensive information on your CPU, GPU, motherboard, and other components. It goes beyond simple temperature readings, offering detailed sensor data, voltage monitoring, fan control options, and even overclocking support for tech enthusiasts.

Website

In-depth hardware info

Customizable dashboard

Extensive reporting and logging

Real-time system monitoring

Secure: Does not collect personal info

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Features

1. Alerting and logging: Set up alerts for critical values and log historical data for trend analysis and proactive maintenance.
2. Customizable dashboard: Create personalized dashboards with the information you need most, displayed in your preferred format and layout.
3. Detailed reporting: Generate comprehensive reports on your system configuration and performance, ideal for troubleshooting or sharing with technical support.
4. Extensive system monitoring: HWINFO gathers data from a vast array of sensors, offering detailed insights into your system’s health and performance.
5. Hardware tweaking: Adjust fan speeds, manage voltages, and even explore overclocking options for experienced users.

HWMonitor

HWMonitor is a user-friendly, no-nonsense CPU temperature monitoring utility that keeps you informed without overwhelming you.

It displays essential information like CPU temperatures, voltages, and fan speeds in a straightforward interface, letting you quickly gauge your system’s health at a glance. But don’t underestimate its potential!

WEBSITE

CPU and GPU Monitoring

Memory modules with thermal sensors

SSD/Hard Disk monitoring via S.M.A.R.T

LPCIO chips with monitoring features

Portable

Customizable monitoring

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Features

1. Alerting and logging: Set up alerts for temperature spikes or other critical values, and track historical data for further analysis.
2. Customizable monitoring: Choose which sensors you want to display and arrange them in a way that suits your needs.
3. Portable: HWMonitor is completely free and doesn’t require installation, making it easy to run on any system.
4. Multiple sensor support: HWMonitor tracks temperatures not just for your CPU, but also for GPUs, hard drives, and other components.
5. Simple and lightweight: HWMonitor runs unobtrusively in the background, consuming minimal resources while keeping an eye on your CPU’s vitals.

CONS

• Available only on windows platform.
• Advanced features available only on the PRO version.

How to Install CPUID HWMonitor

• Download: Go to URL https://www.cpuid.com/softwares/hwmonitor.html and download either the Install or the ZIP file.
• Run: Clicking on the correct version of the program . I am using the 64 bit version HWMonitor_x64.exe and most will likely use the same.

$ sensors
coretemp-isa-0000
Adapter: ISA adapter
Core 0:      +41.0°C  (high = +78.0°C, crit = +100.0°C)  

coretemp-isa-0001
Adapter: ISA adapter
Core 1:      +41.0°C  (high = +78.0°C, crit = +100.0°C)  

w83627dhg-isa-0290
Adapter: ISA adapter
Vcore:       +1.10 V  (min =  +0.00 V, max =  +1.74 V)   
in1:         +1.60 V  (min =  +1.68 V, max =  +1.44 V)   ALARM
AVCC:        +3.30 V  (min =  +2.98 V, max =  +3.63 V)   
VCC:         +3.28 V  (min =  +2.98 V, max =  +3.63 V)   
in4:         +1.85 V  (min =  +1.66 V, max =  +1.11 V)   ALARM
in5:         +1.26 V  (min =  +1.72 V, max =  +0.43 V)   ALARM
in6:         +0.09 V  (min =  +1.75 V, max =  +0.62 V)   ALARM
3VSB:        +3.30 V  (min =  +2.98 V, max =  +3.63 V)   
Vbat:        +3.18 V  (min =  +2.70 V, max =  +3.30 V)   
fan1:          0 RPM  (min = 10546 RPM, div = 128)  ALARM
fan2:        892 RPM  (min = 2136 RPM, div = 8)  ALARM
fan3:          0 RPM  (min = 10546 RPM, div = 128)  ALARM
fan4:          0 RPM  (min = 10546 RPM, div = 128)  ALARM
fan5:          0 RPM  (min = 10546 RPM, div = 128)  ALARM
temp1:       +36.0°C  (high = +63.0°C, hyst = +55.0°C)  sensor = diode
temp2:       +39.5°C  (high = +80.0°C, hyst = +75.0°C)  sensor = diode
temp3:      +119.0°C  (high = +80.0°C, hyst = +75.0°C)  ALARM  sensor = thermistor
cpu0_vid:   +2.050 V

MSI Afterburner

MSI Afterburner, renowned for its prowess in GPU overclocking, extends its capabilities to CPU temperature monitoring, offering users a comprehensive solution for system performance management.

This utility, developed by MSI, allows users to not only tweak GPU settings but also keep a close eye on crucial hardware metrics, including CPU temperature.

The best part about AfterBurner is that it even supports system not using MSI hardware.

Website

Customizable profiles

Overclocking and monitoring

Hardware information overlay

Real-time monitoring

Easy to use GUI

Compatible with MSI and other hardware

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Features

1. Customizable Fan Profiles: Users can create custom fan profiles to regulate system cooling based on their preferences and performance requirements, contributing to effective temperature management.
2. GPU Overclocking and Monitoring: MSI Afterburner is widely recognized for its GPU overclocking capabilities, making it a versatile tool for optimizing both GPU and CPU performance.
3. Hardware Information Overlay: Afterburner includes a hardware information overlay, displaying essential metrics such as CPU temperature, GPU temperature, and usage percentages directly on the screen during gaming or other full-screen applications, enhancing real-time monitoring.
4. Real-Time CPU Temperature Monitoring: Afterburner provides real-time updates on CPU temperature, allowing users to track and manage thermal performance alongside GPU tuning.
5. User-Friendly Interface: The utility features an intuitive and user-friendly interface that simplifies the process of monitoring and adjusting hardware settings, catering to users of varying technical expertise.

How to Install MSI Afterburner

• Download: Get the latest version from URL.
• Install: Just run the downloaded executable to install the program.

NZXT CAM

NZXT CAM isn’t just about CPU temperature monitoring; it’s a one-stop shop for power users wanting to control their system’s aesthetics and performance.

Alongside real-time CPU and GPU temp displays, CAM boasts vibrant RGB lighting customization, fan control for whisper-quiet gaming, and even performance tracking for data-driven optimization.

Website

All in one monitoring

Compatible with NZXT and other hardware

Historical data logging

Smart scheduling

Performance tracking and optimization

Customizable dashboard

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Features

1. All-in-one monitoring and control: Track CPU and GPU temperatures, adjust fan speeds, and customize RGB lighting, all from a single, user-friendly interface.
2. Free and compatible: Works seamlessly with NZXT hardware and a wide range of other components, making it a versatile choice for most gaming PCs.
3. Historical data logging: CAM includes a detailed historical data log, allowing users to review past CPU temperature trends and identify patterns for effective long-term system optimization..
4. Performance tracking and optimization: Analyze resource usage, CPU/GPU clock speeds, and frame rates to identify bottlenecks and optimize settings for smoother gameplay.
5. Sleek, customizable dashboard: Design your monitoring layout with widgets, graphs, and alerts to keep an eye on what matters most to you.

How to Install NZXT CAM

• Install: Download from https://nzxt-app.nzxt.com/NZXT-CAM-Setup.exe and run the EXE to install.

$ cat /sys/class/thermal/thermal_zone*/temp
20000
53000
50000
53000
56000
68000
49000
50000

$ paste <(cat /sys/class/thermal/thermal_zone*/type) <(cat /sys/class/thermal/thermal_zone*/temp) | column -s $'\t' -t | sed 's/\(.\)..$/.\1°C/'
INT3400 Thermal  20.0°C
SEN1             45.0°C
SEN2             51.0°C
SEN3             57.0°C
SEN4             59.0°C
pch_skylake      77.5°C
B0D4             50.0°C
x86_pkg_temp     51.0°C

Conclusion

From minimalist monitors to customizable dashboards, there’s a CPU temperature tool for every user. If you are looking for a simple yet powerful tool lm-sensors on Linux and Ubuntu is your go to option.

On Windows NXXT CAM and MSI Afterburner offer the most features while being free.

Increased temperature can throttle CPU performance: As the CPU heats up, it automatically reduces its clock speed to prevent damage. This can lead to noticeable slowdowns and lagging, especially in demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.

Whichever tool you end up selecting, make sure that you follow the following:

General Practices:

• Maintain good airflow: Keep your PC in a well-ventilated area and clean dust buildup.
• Optimize software: Close unnecessary programs and adjust power settings.
• Update drivers and BIOS: Ensure you have the latest firmware for optimal performance and temperature control.
• Stress test (optional): Run stress tests to identify under-performance or thermal issues.

Additional Tips:

• Log historical data: Analyze temperature trends over time to identify potential problems.
• Monitor other components: GPU, hard drives, and motherboards can also overheat.
• Don’t panic: Occasional temperature spikes are normal, but sustained high temperatures require action.