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How to Check GPU Temperature on Windows (AMD & Nvidia)

Guide 10-21580 · Updated · Step by step

Checking your graphics card’s temperature is a quick way to see if it’s running too hot, which can cause stuttering, crashes, or even hardware damage. This guide shows you the built-in Windows methods and the official tools from both AMD and Nvidia, so you can monitor your GPU temperature in minutes.

What You’ll Need

  • A Windows PC with an AMD or Nvidia graphics card.
  • For the most accurate readings, the latest graphics driver from AMD or Nvidia (optional but recommended).
  • No third-party software is required for the basic methods.

Step-by-Step

  1. Use Task Manager (Windows 10/11):
    1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
    2. Click the Performance tab (if you don’t see it, click “More details” at the bottom).
    3. Look for GPU in the left sidebar. If you have multiple GPUs, each will appear separately (e.g., GPU 0, GPU 1).
    4. Click on the GPU you want to check. The temperature is displayed under the graph, usually in the bottom-left corner. This works for both AMD and Nvidia cards.
  2. Use the Nvidia Control Panel (Nvidia only):
    1. Right-click on your desktop and select Nvidia Control Panel.
    2. In the top menu, click Desktop and check Display GPU Activity Icon in Notification Area (if not already checked).
    3. Click the small GPU icon in the system tray (near the clock). It will show your GPU temperature and other stats. This is a quick way to see it without opening the full panel.
  3. Use AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition (AMD only):
    1. Right-click on your desktop and select AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition.
    2. Click the Performance tab at the top.
    3. Select Metrics from the left menu. You’ll see a live graph of GPU temperature, along with other metrics like usage and clock speed.
  4. Use the Xbox Game Bar (Windows 10/11):
    1. Press Win + G to open the Xbox Game Bar.
    2. Click the Performance widget (it looks like a small graph icon). If you don’t see it, click the widget menu (the icon with four squares) and select “Performance”.
    3. The Performance widget shows GPU temperature, along with CPU and RAM usage. It works for both AMD and Nvidia cards.
  5. Use a third-party tool (optional, for more detail):
    1. Download a free tool like MSI Afterburner or HWiNFO. These are widely used and trusted.
    2. Install and run the tool. MSI Afterburner shows the temperature in its main window; HWiNFO shows it under “GPU” sensors. These tools also let you log temperatures over time and set up on-screen overlays in games.

Common Mistakes

  • Checking the wrong sensor: Some tools show multiple temperature readings (e.g., “GPU Temperature”, “Hot Spot”, “Memory Junction”). The “GPU Temperature” is the main core temp you should focus on. Hot spot and memory temps are usually higher and are not directly comparable.
  • Checking while idle: If the GPU is not under load, the temperature will be low (often 30–50°C). To see if it’s overheating, you need to check while gaming or running a stress test.
  • Confusing CPU and GPU temps: Task Manager shows both CPU and GPU. Make sure you’re looking at the GPU section, not the CPU.
  • Relying on a single reading: A temperature spike during a game might be normal. Check the average over a few minutes of heavy use.

Tips

  • Know the safe range: For most modern GPUs, idle temps are 30–50°C, under load 60–85°C is typical. If you consistently see over 85°C under load, it’s worth investigating.
  • Clean your PC: Dust buildup on fans and heat sinks is the most common cause of high temperatures. Use compressed air to clean it every few months.
  • Improve airflow: Make sure your PC case has good intake and exhaust fans. A clean, well-ventilated case can lower temps by 5–10°C.
  • Check fan speed: In tools like MSI Afterburner or AMD Adrenalin, you can see if your GPU fans are spinning at a reasonable speed. If they’re at 0% while under load, you may have a fan issue.
  • Update drivers: Sometimes a driver update can improve fan curves or fix temperature reporting bugs.

Troubleshooting

  • Task Manager doesn’t show temperature: This can happen on older GPUs or if the driver is not properly installed. Update your GPU driver from the manufacturer’s website, then restart.
  • Nvidia Control Panel doesn’t have the GPU Activity icon: Make sure you have the latest Nvidia driver. If it still doesn’t appear, use Task Manager or the Xbox Game Bar instead.
  • AMD Software shows no metrics: Ensure you have the latest AMD Adrenalin software. If the metrics page is blank, try restarting the software or your PC.
  • Temperature reads 0°C or a weird value: This usually indicates a driver issue or a sensor problem. Reinstall the driver, and if it persists, check if your GPU is properly seated in the PCIe slot.
  • GPU is overheating (over 90°C under load): First, clean the dust. If that doesn’t help, check that all fans are spinning. If the card is old, the thermal paste may have dried out – that’s a more advanced fix, but you can also consider undervolting or reducing the power limit in your GPU software.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a normal GPU temperature?

Idle: 30–50°C. Under load (gaming): 60–85°C. Anything consistently above 90°C is concerning.

Can I check GPU temp without any software?

Yes. Windows Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc → Performance → GPU) shows the temperature for most GPUs.

Why does my GPU temp vary so much?

Because the GPU heats up when it’s working hard (gaming, rendering) and cools down when idle. Also, ambient room temperature and case airflow affect it.

Is it safe to run my GPU at 80°C?

Yes, 80°C is within the normal operating range for most GPUs. It’s only a concern if it goes above 90°C for extended periods.

Do I need to worry about the “Hot Spot” temperature?

Hot spot is the hottest point on the GPU die. It’s usually 10–20°C higher than the main temp. As long as it’s under 100°C, it’s generally fine.

How can I lower my GPU temperature?

Clean dust, improve case airflow, increase fan speed (via software), or undervolt the GPU. Also, make sure your PC is not in a hot, enclosed space.

Related

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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