Your PC’s processor can overheat if it runs too hot, but don’t worry – we’re here to help with some actionable tips on how best to keep your computer running cool!
70c is too hot for a CPU. The average temperature for a CPU is around 50-60 degrees Celsius. However, if you’re gaming or your PC is under heavy load, 70c is on the average side of things. As long as you’re not going over 75c, you are safe.
How to Check CPU Temps
You can check CPU temps in a few different ways.
One way is to use a software program like SpeedFan, which will read you all the temperatures inside your computer, including the CPU. Another way is to use the BIOS or UEFI, a built-in program with your motherboard.
To check the CPU temp using Open Hardware Monitor:
- Open The program and click on the ” Sensors” tab.
- Under “Temperature,” look for “CPU Package.” The temperature will be next to it.
- Here it will show you both its current temperature and the maximum it’s reached.
- To save the data as a report, click on “File” and then “Save Report.”
- Select where you want to save the file and give it a name.
- Click “Save.”
To check the CPU temp using BIOS or UEFI:
- Turn on your computer and press the key that opens BIOS or UEFI (this key may be ESC, DEL, F2, or F10).
- Look for a section called “Hardware Monitor” or something similar. This menu will list your computer’s temperatures, including the CPU temp.
- Write down the temperature or take a screenshot to refer to it later.
- Reboot your computer and go back into BIOS or UEFI.
- The temperature should still be listed under “Hardware Monitor.” If not, look for another section called “Processor” or something similar and find the CPU temp there.
These are just a few ways to check your CPU temperature, and you can even purchase AIOs that, when set up, will monitor your heat.
Average CPU Temperature While Gaming
Celsius CPU temperature of around 60-70 degrees Celsius is considered normal while gaming but can vary depending on the game being played, the graphics settings used, and the hardware used.
Also if you are using a cheap gaming PC bundle setup then the parts and components inside can often overheat at a much quicker rate.
If your CPU temperature is hitting 75 degrees Celsius or above you should take some action to bring it down, such as reducing the graphics settings or using an AIO to reduce the heat considerably.
These measures can help ensure that your CPU remains at a safe temperature while gaming.
Of course, if your CPU temperature consistently reaches high temperatures, you should inspect the problem in more depth.
There are many forums where you can ask questions about it, but if you’re confident, you can always try reseating your CPU or giving it a good clean.
Often replacing the thermal paste and removing all the dust inside your cooler is enough to drop temperatures by around 5c, if not more in some cases.
Normal Laptop CPU Temperature
Laptops are infamous for running super hot even when doing very little. It’s normal for a computer to be around 55c when idling. High temperatures are often caused by poor ventilation, as when you put it on your lap, you cover most of its ventilation.
It’s recommended to place your laptop on a flat and solid surface to make sure that nothing gets in the way of the vents.
However, if you’re using it on a desk and it’s still overheating, a laptop stand might be the perfect solution as it raises the laptop exposing it to cooler air.
A laptop’s CPU can reach temperatures above 90c when gaming or other resource-intensive tasks.
If your CPU consistently hits these high temperatures, you should take some action to bring it down.
For laptops, it’s recommended to contact the manufacturer if it’s still under warranty.
How to Lower CPU Temps
The best things to do are the simplest, clean out all the dust from inside your system and air filters (if you have any), and install a good aftermarket cooler. If you are uncomfortable doing this, many places will install it.
You can do a few other things to lower your CPU temperature if it’s running a bit too hot.
- Check the thermal paste: You can also check the thermal paste between the CPU and the cooler. If it’s old or not applied correctly, then it won’t be able to transfer heat properly, and the CPU will get too hot.
- Upgrade the cooler to an AIO: If you do a lot of heavy CPU tasks such as rendering or gaming, switching is strongly recommended. They are much better at absorbing heat than a regular air cooler.
- Use a fan controller: A board with a fan controller can be a great way to lower your CPU temperature as it will allow you to adjust the fan speed based on how hot the CPU is getting.
These tips will help you lower your CPU temperature and keep it running cool. You could also consider finding someone to build you a PC if you have had enough of constant overheating issues.
Final Thoughts
So, you’ve read about the different ways to check your CPU temperature and what is considered normal which is under 70c.
You’ve also learned about some methods you can use to lower your CPU temps if they are running a bit too high.
Now it’s time for you to put this information into practice.
Start by cleaning out the dust inside your system and air filters. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, many places will do it for you cheaply.
If your CPU consistently hits high temperatures, consider upgrading to an AIO cooler or using a fan controller.
And lastly, remember that laptops often run hot, so don’t worry if yours reaches 55c when idle- that’s perfectly normal!