How to check fan speed in Windows 11?

How to check fan speed in Windows 11?
As someone who’s been using Windows 11 for a while, I’ve become quite interested in keeping my system running smoothly. Lately, I’ve been wondering about the best way to keep my computer cool, particularly how I can monitor the fan speed effectively. I understand that a well-functioning fan is crucial for maintaining an optimal temperature and ensuring that the hardware doesn’t overheat, which can cause all sorts of issues like reduced performance or even hardware failure. However, I find myself getting a bit lost when trying to figure out how to check fan speed in Windows 11. It seems like there might be several ways to do it, perhaps through BIOS settings, third-party software, or even built-in tools that I’m not aware of. I’m keen to learn about all the potential methods available and to understand if there’s a straightforward approach to this. Any insights into the steps or tools involved would be hugely beneficial as I aim to keep my system’s temperature under control.
5 Answers

Some branded computers come with built-in diagnostic tools, such as Dell SupportAssist or HP Support Assistant:
1. Look for the pre-installed diagnostic tool specific to your system brand.
2. Open the tool and navigate to the hardware diagnostics section.
3. Find the readings for fan speed and system health.
These branded diagnostic tools provide a seamless and reliable method to monitor your system’s fan speeds, utilizing software designed specifically for your hardware.

Using the BIOS or UEFI firmware interface is one reliable way to check fan speeds in Windows 11. Here’s how you should do it:
1. Restart your computer and press the required key (such as DEL, ESC, F2, or F10) during startup to enter the BIOS or UEFI.
2. Navigate to the ‘Hardware Monitor’ or similar section, where you’ll find information on various system stats, including fan speeds.
3. Look for entries labeled ‘CPU Fan Speed’ or similar terms to see the current RPM (Revolutions Per Minute).
This method, though requiring a system restart, offers a straightforward and accurate way to monitor fan speeds directly from your system’s firmware.

One efficient approach is using third-party software like SpeedFan to monitor fan speed in Windows 11:
1. Download and install SpeedFan from the official website.
2. Run SpeedFan, which will display various readings on the main screen, including temperatures and fan speeds.
3. Look at the sections labeled ‘Fan1’, ‘Fan2’, etc., to find the current speeds of different fans.
SpeedFan is especially useful for users who prefer real-time monitoring of their system’s cooling performance but keep in mind it might not support every fan depending on your motherboard.

For an integrated approach within Windows 11, you can use HWiNFO software:
1. Download and install HWiNFO from its official site.
2. Launch the software and select ‘Sensors Only’ to focus on monitoring.
3. Check the sensors window for sections like ‘CPU Fan,’ which will display current speeds.
HWiNFO is invaluable for those seeking detailed insights into various hardware components besides fan speeds, making it a multi-purpose tool for in-depth system monitoring.

Open Hardware Monitor, another useful tool, is perfect for those preferring open-source software:
1. Download and install Open Hardware Monitor.
2. Launch the application, which will automatically detect your system’s hardware and display readings.
3. Locate the ‘Fans’ section for a straightforward readout of fan speeds in RPM.
Open Hardware Monitor’s simplicity and effectiveness make it accessible, offering a clear snapshot of your cooling system without overly complex configurations.