Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about HWMonitor usage, sensor readings, and troubleshooting. For more help, visit the Support & Community page or the main HWMonitor page.

Temperatures & Sensors

Is HWMonitor accurate for reporting GPU temperatures?
HWMonitor is generally accurate for GPU temperature readings, as it pulls data directly from the onboard sensors. However, some users report small differences when comparing with MSI Afterburner and other tools. If you need exact numbers for overclocking or thermal analysis, it's worth comparing with a second tool.

Which CPU temperature should I focus on: package, cores, or motherboard?
The most important temperatures to monitor are the CPU package and the highest individual core temperatures. These reflect the real thermal state of your processor. Motherboard CPU readings are often lower and less precise. As long as your CPU stays below 90–95°C under load, it's within safe limits for most modern CPUs.

What are TMPIN readings in HWMonitor?
TMPIN labels are temperature sensors on the motherboard, but their exact purpose can vary depending on the manufacturer. They might monitor the VRMs, CPU socket area, chipset, or other components. Because the naming isn't standardized, the readings can be hard to interpret without checking your motherboard documentation.

Power & Values

Can HWMonitor show how much power my GPU is using?
Yes, HWMonitor can display GPU power usage if your graphics card supports it. It shows readings from the PCIe slot and the auxiliary power connectors (6-pin or 8-pin). By adding these values together, you can estimate the total power draw of your GPU. This can be helpful when deciding whether your power supply is sufficient or if you're planning an upgrade.

Editions & Installation

What is the difference between HWMonitor and HWMonitor PRO?
HWMonitor (free) runs on a single PC and provides full sensor monitoring. HWMonitor PRO supports remote monitoring across multiple PCs on a network, making it useful for IT admins and power users who need to watch several machines at once.

Should I use the portable ZIP or the installer?
The portable ZIP lets you run HWMonitor from any folder or USB drive without installing. The installer adds shortcuts and allows removal via Add or Remove Programs. Both offer the same monitoring features; choose based on whether you prefer a fixed install or a portable setup.

Trust & Security

My antivirus flags HWMonitor. Is it safe?
HWMonitor is a legitimate monitoring tool. Antivirus false positives can occur with system-level utilities that read hardware sensors. Always download from official or reputable sources (such as the developer's site or trusted mirrors). Avoid unofficial repacks or unknown third-party sites. You can verify the file with multiple scan engines if you want extra assurance.

General

Which operating systems does HWMonitor support?
HWMonitor is designed for Windows (x86/x64). It is optimized for Windows 10 and Windows 11 and may work on earlier Windows versions where supported. It does not run on macOS or Linux.

Is HWMonitor free?
Yes. HWMonitor is free for personal and general use. HWMonitor PRO is an extended version with remote monitoring; the free edition is sufficient for single-PC monitoring.