Core Temp
Core Temp is a compact and highly accurate CPU temperature monitoring tool for Windows. It reads real-time thermal data directly from the processor’s Digital Thermal Sensor (DTS), providing per-core temperature tracking with minimal system overhead. Because it monitors cores individually rather than reporting a single average temperature, Core Temp is preferred by overclockers, testers, and users diagnosing overheating issues.
The program is extremely lightweight, requires almost no configuration, and supports a wide range of Intel, AMD, and VIA CPUs. It is ideal for everyday monitoring, gaming diagnostics, stress testing, and verifying cooling performance.
Key Features
- Per-core temperature monitoring: live readings from processor DTS sensors
- Low overhead: runs smoothly alongside games, benchmarks, and stress tests
- Wide CPU support: Intel Core, AMD Ryzen, FX, Athlon, Threadripper, and more
- Customizable plugins: logging, graphs, system tray widgets
- Protection alerts: automatic overheat warnings and shutdown options
- Portable mode available: monitoring without installation
When Core Temp Is Useful
Core Temp is especially helpful when you need:
- To verify CPU temperatures under heavy gaming or rendering load
- To diagnose cooling issues, thermal throttling, or unstable overclocks
- To monitor each core’s behavior individually
- A precise, minimalistic tool without complicated controls
- Logging for long-term temperature tracking
For full system-wide sensor coverage (motherboard, GPU, drives), consider alternatives like HWMonitor, HWiNFO, or Libre Hardware Monitor. If you need a GPU-focused tool, Speccy is also useful.
Download Options
| Platform | Type | Download |
|---|---|---|
| 1.18.1 Windows x64 | Installer (.exe) | Download |
Useful Links
- Official Website
- License: Freeware
Troubleshooting & Tips
Core Temp shows unusually high temperatures
Ryzen and Intel CPUs may report Tctl/Tdie differently. Compare readings with HWiNFO or HWMonitor to confirm accuracy.
Incorrect TJMax value
The TJMax (maximum junction temperature) value varies by CPU model. Core Temp auto-detects it, but outdated CPUs may report incorrectly.
No temperature readings
Ensure your processor is supported. If running inside a VM, temperature sensors are usually unavailable.
Core Temp causes fan noise spikes
High-frequency polling may trigger motherboard fan curves. Increase the polling interval in settings.
FAQ
Is Core Temp safe?
Yes. Core Temp only reads data and does not modify system settings.
Does Core Temp support Ryzen CPUs?
Yes — all modern Ryzen processors are fully supported.
Can Core Temp control fans?
No. For fan control, use BIOS setup or dedicated tools like FanControl or Argus Monitor.
Does it work on Windows 11?
Yes — Core Temp supports Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11.
Can it monitor GPU temperatures?
No — Core Temp is CPU-only. For GPU monitoring, use HWMonitor or HWiNFO.