Keeping your computer cool is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. One of the critical components responsible for cooling your system is the fan. While most systems today have automatic fan speed control, some users prefer to manually adjust the fan speed to optimize their system’s cooling performance. If you’re wondering how to check fan speed in Windows 10, you’re in luck because there are many easy and quick ways to do so!
Checking fan speed in Windows 10 can help you identify if your system’s cooling is adequate or if you need to take some measures to optimize it. In this article, we’ll explore seven easy methods to check your system’s fan speed in Windows 10. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned user, this article will help you find the best method for you to monitor your system’s cooling performance.
So, if you’re ready to learn how to check fan speed in Windows 10, keep reading to discover these easy and quick ways!
Method 1: Use Task Manager
If you’re wondering how to check fan speed in Windows 10, using the built-in Task Manager tool can be an easy and quick solution. Task Manager is a versatile program that comes with Windows 10 and can help you monitor the performance of your computer. To check the fan speed, simply launch Task Manager and click on the “Performance” tab.
Once you’re on the Performance tab, look for “CPU” in the left-hand menu and click on it. This will display the CPU usage graph as well as the speed of your computer’s fans. The fan speed will be listed under the “CPU” graph, and you can see it fluctuate as the workload on your computer changes.
Task Manager is a simple and effective way to monitor the fan speed on your Windows 10 computer. Whether you’re a tech-savvy user or a beginner, using Task Manager to check your fan speed is a straightforward process that can help you ensure your computer is running smoothly.
Task Manager: A Built-in Tool for Windows Users
If you’re wondering how to check fan speed in Windows 10, you might be surprised to know that one of the easiest ways to do it is through Task Manager. This built-in tool is available on all Windows computers and can help you monitor your system’s performance, including fan speed. Here’s how to use it:
- Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc on your keyboard or by right-clicking on the taskbar and selecting “Task Manager”.
- Click on the “Performance” tab to see your system’s performance details.
- Under the “Performance” tab, click on “CPU” to see the CPU usage details.
- On the right side of the screen, you’ll see a graph of your CPU usage. Below the graph, you’ll see a section called “Speed”. This section will show you the current speed of your CPU fan in RPM (revolutions per minute).
Task Manager is a simple and effective tool for checking fan speed in Windows 10. However, it only shows you the current fan speed and not the fan speed history. If you need more advanced features or want to see the fan speed history, you might want to consider using third-party software.
Keep reading to learn more about other methods to check fan speed in Windows 10.
Method 2: Use Third-Party Software
If you want more detailed information on your fan speed, third-party software can be a great option. There are several software programs available that can help you monitor your computer’s fan speed, temperature, and other performance metrics.
SpeedFan is a popular and free software program that can monitor fan speeds, voltages, and temperatures. It can also control fan speeds if your computer’s BIOS allows for it.
HWMonitor is another free software program that provides real-time monitoring of your computer’s temperature, voltage, fan speed, and other performance metrics. It is easy to use and can give you detailed information about your computer’s hardware components.
Popular Fan Control Software for Windows 10
If you want to have more control over your fan speeds, third-party software may be the way to go. Here are some popular options:
- SpeedFan: A free and powerful fan control software that allows you to monitor and control fan speeds, as well as other system components.
- HWiNFO: A comprehensive system information and diagnostics tool that also provides fan control features.
- Argus Monitor: A paid software that offers real-time monitoring of hardware components, including fan speeds.
- Open Hardware Monitor: A free and open-source tool that provides real-time monitoring of various hardware components, including fan speeds.
- MSI Afterburner: A popular software among gamers for overclocking and fan control.
Before downloading and installing any third-party software, make sure to do your research and choose a reputable and trustworthy program.
Note that some hardware manufacturers also provide their own fan control software, so be sure to check your device’s website for any available options.
Using third-party software can provide more advanced fan control features than the built-in options, but it’s important to use them carefully and with caution to avoid any potential damage to your system.
How to Choose the Right Fan Control Software?
Compatibility: Before choosing a fan control software, make sure it is compatible with your system’s hardware and operating system. Check the software’s website for compatibility information.
Features: Look for fan control software with features that match your needs. Some software may offer more advanced features, such as temperature monitoring and fan speed profiles, while others may offer basic fan speed control.
User Interface: Choose a fan control software with a user-friendly interface. A clean and organized interface will make it easier to navigate the software and adjust your fan settings without confusion.
How to Use Third-Party Fan Control Software?
If you have decided to use third-party fan control software to monitor and adjust your fan speeds, here are some general steps to help you get started:
- Research and choose a software: Look for a reliable and compatible software that suits your needs. Check for the features, ease of use, and compatibility with your system.
- Download and install: Once you have chosen the software, download and install it on your system. Follow the installation steps carefully to ensure proper installation.
- Open the software: After installation, launch the software and familiarize yourself with its interface and features.
- Adjust fan speeds: Use the software to adjust the fan speeds according to your preferences. Most software provides easy-to-use controls to adjust the fan speeds and monitor their performance.
It’s important to note that different fan control software may have different interfaces and options. So, it’s essential to read the software documentation or watch tutorials to learn more about their features and usage.
Method 3: Check BIOS Settings
If you want to check the fan speed of your computer’s CPU and other components, you can use the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) settings. Here’s how:
Step 1: Restart your computer and press the key (usually F2 or Del) to enter the BIOS setup menu.
Step 2: Look for the “Hardware Monitor” or “PC Health Status” section.
Step 3: Locate the fan speed settings and check if they are set to “Auto” or “Manual”.
Step 4: If the fan speed is set to “Manual”, you can adjust the speed by changing the fan control mode or fan profile settings.
Step 5: Save the changes and exit the BIOS settings to reboot your computer.
Checking the fan speed in BIOS is a bit technical, but it provides more control over the fan settings compared to the other methods. If you’re not confident with accessing the BIOS settings, it’s best to seek help from a professional or someone who has experience with computer hardware.
How to Enter BIOS?
Restart your computer or power it on if it’s off.
Press the appropriate key to enter the BIOS setup, which is usually displayed on the screen during boot. The most common keys are F2, F10, F12, and Del. If you’re not sure, consult your computer’s manual or search for it online.
Once you’re in the BIOS setup, you can use the arrow keys on your keyboard to navigate through the menus and options. Be careful not to change anything unless you know what you’re doing, as it can cause your computer to malfunction.
When you’re finished making changes, use the Esc key to exit the current menu or the F10 key to save and exit the BIOS setup. Again, be careful not to save changes unless you know what you’re doing, as it can affect your computer’s performance or even cause it to fail to boot.
Finally, your computer will reboot or resume booting, depending on what you selected in the BIOS setup. Congratulations, you’ve successfully entered the BIOS setup!
Entering the BIOS setup can be a daunting task for beginners, but it’s an essential skill for anyone who wants to tweak their computer’s hardware settings, such as the boot order, memory timings, or fan speed. Remember to be cautious and read the instructions carefully before making any changes, and don’t hesitate to consult a professional or the manufacturer’s support if you’re unsure about something. Good luck!
Method 4: Use Command Prompt
If you’re comfortable using Command Prompt, you can also enter the BIOS setup through it. Here’s how:
First, open Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for it in the Start menu, right-clicking it, and selecting “Run as administrator.” Then, type shutdown /r /fw and press Enter. This will reboot your computer and take you directly to the BIOS setup without any intermediate screens. From there, you can make any necessary changes and exit as usual.
Note that this method is only available on Windows 8 and later versions, and may not work on all computers or BIOS versions. Additionally, using Command Prompt incorrectly can cause serious damage to your computer, so make sure you follow the instructions carefully and have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. If you’re not familiar with Command Prompt, we recommend using one of the other methods described in this article.
How to Check Fan Speed Using Command Prompt?
If you suspect that your computer’s fans are not running at their optimal speed, you can use Command Prompt to check their current speed. Here’s how:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for it in the Start menu, right-clicking it, and selecting “Run as administrator.”
- Type wmic fan get and press Enter. This will display information about all the fans installed on your computer, including their current speed.
- Look for the fan that you want to check the speed of, and note its Speed value. This value is given in rpm (revolutions per minute) and indicates how fast the fan is spinning.
- If you want to check the speed of a specific fan, you can use its index number. For example, if you want to check the speed of the first fan listed, type wmic fan where “deviceid=’fan1′” get speed and press Enter.
Note that the speed of your computer’s fans can vary depending on the workload and temperature of your system. If you notice that your fans are consistently running at a high speed or making unusual noises, it may be a sign of a hardware problem and should be checked by a professional.
What Are the Command Prompt Commands for Fan Speed Control?
If you want to control your computer’s fan speed using Command Prompt, here are some useful commands:
- WMIC FAN GET: This command displays information about your system’s fans, including their current speed and status.
- WMIC FAN WHERE: This command lets you specify which fan you want to control by setting the fan’s index number.
- WMIC PATH WIN32_FAN: This command lets you set the target fan’s speed by using the SetSpeed method.
- WMIC PATH WIN32_FAN WHERE: This command lets you specify which fan you want to control and set its target speed.
- WMIC PATH WIN32_FAN WHERE SetSpeed: This command lets you set the target fan’s speed by using the SetSpeed method, while specifying which fan you want to control.
It’s important to note that not all computers support fan speed control via Command Prompt, and attempting to control fan speeds on unsupported systems can cause damage. Additionally, improper fan control can lead to overheating, which can damage your computer’s hardware.
Before using Command Prompt to control your computer’s fan speed, it’s recommended that you do your research and make sure that your computer supports fan speed control via this method. If you’re unsure, consult your computer’s manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.
What Precautions Should You Take While Using Command Prompt?
While using Command Prompt can be a powerful tool, it’s important to take some precautions to avoid potential issues. One of the most important things to remember is to always run Command Prompt as an administrator. This will ensure that you have the necessary permissions to perform the tasks you want to complete.
Another important precaution to take is to double-check any command you are about to execute in Command Prompt. A single mistake can have serious consequences, so it’s important to be careful and make sure you are typing the correct command.
Finally, be careful when running any third-party programs or scripts through Command Prompt. These can be useful for automating tasks, but they can also be malicious or cause unintended consequences. Make sure to only use reputable programs and scripts from trusted sources to avoid any potential issues.
Method 5: Use SpeedFan
If you are not comfortable using the Command Prompt or BIOS, there are third-party tools like SpeedFan that you can use to check and control fan speed. SpeedFan is a free utility that can monitor temperatures, fan speeds, and voltages of your computer.
To use SpeedFan, you need to first download and install it on your computer. Once installed, run the program and it will display the fan speeds and temperatures of your system. You can also customize the fan speed settings by clicking on the “Configure” button and setting the desired temperature/fan speed thresholds.
One thing to note is that not all computer systems are compatible with SpeedFan. Some systems may have proprietary fan controllers that are not supported by SpeedFan, so make sure to check the compatibility before installing the software.
How to Install and Use SpeedFan on Windows 10?
Step 1: Download the latest version of SpeedFan from the official website.
Step 2: After downloading, run the installation wizard and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
Step 3: Once installed, launch SpeedFan from the desktop shortcut or Start menu. The software will scan your system for available sensors and display them on the main interface.
What Are the Features of SpeedFan?
| Features | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Real-time monitoring | SpeedFan provides real-time monitoring of your system’s temperatures, voltages, and fan speeds. It allows you to keep an eye on the health of your computer and prevent overheating and damage to components. | Prevents damage to components, allows for proactive maintenance, and helps you keep your computer running optimally. |
| Advanced fan control | With SpeedFan, you can control the speed of your computer’s fans manually or automatically based on the temperature readings. This allows you to optimize fan noise and performance to meet your specific needs. | Reduces fan noise, saves energy, and allows for better control over system temperature and performance. |
| S.M.A.R.T. monitoring | SpeedFan provides S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) monitoring of your computer’s hard drives. This allows you to check the health of your hard drives and predict impending failure before it happens. | Allows for proactive maintenance and helps you prevent data loss due to hard drive failure. |
SpeedFan is a powerful tool that allows you to monitor the health of your computer and control its fans and temperature. Its real-time monitoring and advanced fan control features allow you to prevent damage to components, optimize performance, and reduce noise. In addition, its S.M.A.R.T. monitoring capabilities help you keep an eye on the health of your hard drives and predict failures before they happen.
Other features of SpeedFan include the ability to adjust the FSB on some hardware, control the speed of PWM fans, and monitor GPU temperatures. It also allows you to set custom temperature thresholds and alerts, so you can be notified if your system is overheating.
Overall, SpeedFan is an essential tool for anyone who wants to keep their computer running smoothly and avoid costly repairs. Whether you’re a gamer, a content creator, or just a casual user, SpeedFan has something to offer.
Method 6: Check Motherboard Manual
If none of the previous methods have worked for you, it’s time to pull out your motherboard manual. The manual should have information on how to access the BIOS settings and which keys to press to enter it. If you can’t find your manual, you can usually download it from the manufacturer’s website using the model number of your motherboard.
When you have the manual, look for a section that explains the BIOS settings and how to access them. It may be called “Entering the BIOS” or “Configuring BIOS Settings”. Once you find the section, read through it carefully to make sure you understand the steps involved. Make a note of which key you need to press to enter the BIOS, as well as any other important information.
It’s important to note that different motherboards may have different methods for accessing the BIOS settings. Make sure you follow the instructions specific to your motherboard model. If you’re unsure or have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact the manufacturer’s customer support for assistance.
Where to Find the Fan Control Options in Your Motherboard Manual?
Once you’ve accessed the BIOS settings, you’ll need to locate the fan control options. In most cases, the fan control options are located in the “Hardware Monitor” or “PC Health Status” section of the BIOS settings. This section will allow you to adjust fan speeds and set temperature thresholds.
Look for options such as “CPU Fan Speed Control” or “System Fan Speed Control”. These options may be located under a sub-menu, such as “Advanced” or “Power”. Once you’ve found the fan control options, you can adjust the fan speeds to your liking. Just be sure to monitor the temperatures of your components to ensure they stay within safe limits.
Keep in mind that not all motherboards will have fan control options in the BIOS settings. Some motherboards may rely on software-based fan control instead. If you can’t find fan control options in your motherboard manual, check the manufacturer’s website for any available software that can be used to control fan speeds.
Method 7: Use Hardware Monitoring Software
If you’re not comfortable navigating the BIOS settings or don’t have the option to adjust fan speeds, you can use hardware monitoring software to control your fans. There are several software options available, some of which are free and some of which require a purchase.
SpeedFan: This is a free software that allows you to monitor your system’s temperature, fan speeds, and voltages. SpeedFan also allows you to adjust fan speeds and set temperature thresholds.
MSI Afterburner: This is a popular software among gamers for overclocking their graphics cards, but it also has fan control options. MSI Afterburner allows you to adjust fan speeds based on temperature or set a custom fan curve.
HWiNFO: This software provides detailed information about your system’s hardware components, including temperature and fan speeds. HWiNFO also allows you to adjust fan speeds and set temperature thresholds.
CAM: This software is designed specifically for NZXT products, but it also works with other hardware components. CAM allows you to monitor your system’s temperature and adjust fan speeds based on temperature or a custom fan curve.
Argus Monitor: This software is a paid option that provides real-time monitoring of your system’s temperature, fan speeds, and voltages. Argus Monitor also allows you to adjust fan speeds and set temperature thresholds.
Using hardware monitoring software is a great option for those who want to control their fan speeds without having to navigate the BIOS settings. Just be sure to monitor your temperatures and adjust fan speeds accordingly to avoid overheating or unnecessary fan noise.
What Is Hardware Monitoring Software?
If you are looking to monitor the performance of your computer’s hardware, then hardware monitoring software is the perfect solution for you. This type of software is designed to provide real-time information on the temperature, voltage, and fan speed of your computer’s hardware components. With this information, you can keep your system running at optimal levels, prevent overheating, and avoid hardware failures.
Hardware monitoring software comes in various forms, ranging from simple tools that provide basic information to more advanced programs that offer detailed statistics and customization options. Some of the most popular hardware monitoring software options include SpeedFan, Open Hardware Monitor, and HWMonitor.
One of the key benefits of hardware monitoring software is that it allows you to track the performance of your computer’s hardware over time. By monitoring your system regularly, you can identify trends and potential issues before they become serious problems. This can help you to make informed decisions about hardware upgrades, maintenance, and other aspects of your system’s performance.
Another advantage of using hardware monitoring software is that it provides an easy-to-use interface for monitoring and controlling your computer’s fans. Most modern systems come with multiple fans that are designed to cool various components, and hardware monitoring software can help you to adjust the speed of these fans based on the temperature of your hardware.
What Are the Best Hardware Monitoring Software for Windows 10?
There are many hardware monitoring software options available for Windows 10 users, but some stand out from the rest. One of the best is CPU-Z, which allows you to monitor your CPU, motherboard, and memory usage, as well as fan speeds and temperature sensors.
HWMonitor is another popular choice, which monitors system voltage, temperature, and fan speed. It also has the ability to log sensor readings for future analysis.
Open Hardware Monitor is a free and open-source hardware monitoring software that can monitor CPU temperature, fan speed, and voltage, as well as hard disk temperature and usage. It can also display the temperature of individual CPU cores.
AIDA64 is a paid hardware monitoring software that offers in-depth analysis of your system components, including CPU, GPU, and RAM. It also monitors fan speed, temperature, and power consumption, and can display real-time system performance graphs.
Ultimately, the best hardware monitoring software for Windows 10 depends on your specific needs and preferences. These are just a few options to consider when looking for a reliable way to monitor your system’s hardware.
How to Use Hardware Monitoring Software for Fan Speed Control?
Install and open the hardware monitoring software of your choice. Ensure that it supports fan speed control.
Look for the fan control options in the software. This can usually be found under the “Fan Control” or “Cooling” section.
Select the fan you want to control and adjust the fan speed settings. You can either set a custom fan curve or choose from pre-set profiles such as silent or performance mode.
Save your settings and test them out to make sure they are working properly. Monitor your system temperatures to ensure they are within safe levels.
Remember, different hardware monitoring software may have slightly different interfaces and features, so it’s important to read the software’s documentation and familiarize yourself with its controls before making any adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the methods to check fan speed in Windows 10?
To check fan speed in Windows 10, you can use several methods, such as BIOS settings, Task Manager, third-party software, and hardware monitoring tools.
How do I check the fan speed in BIOS settings?
You can check the fan speed in BIOS settings by accessing the hardware monitoring or system health section. Look for an option that displays the current fan speed in RPM or percentage.
What are some popular third-party software to check fan speed?
Some popular third-party software to check fan speed include SpeedFan, HWMonitor, and Open Hardware Monitor. These tools allow you to monitor your computer’s hardware, including fan speed, temperature, and voltage.
Is it important to monitor fan speed in Windows 10?
Yes, it is important to monitor fan speed in Windows 10 to ensure that your computer is running smoothly and efficiently. Overheating can cause damage to your hardware and decrease the lifespan of your computer, so it is important to monitor the temperature and fan speed regularly.