Monitor CPU temperature
(Updated: )The Temperature monitor reports the heat level inside the CPU of your Mac every second and alerts you when the CPU overheats. You can check the CPU temperature in the Menu or by viewing the detailed CPU monitor – see Temperature.
The temperature is displayed in Celsius or Fahrenheit, based on your system preferences (you can change this in System Settings > General > Language & Region > Temperature).
CPU temperature ranges
By regularly monitoring the CPU temperature, you can quickly identify when it overheats and take action to cool it down. Keeping the CPU within its optimal temperature range ensures it lasts longer and operates more efficiently.
The following are the most common temperature ranges for your Mac computer's CPU:
Normal (55°C (131°F) or less)
Your CPU temperature is within the optimal working range. This is typical when running 2–3 lightweight or system apps, or when no apps are open.
Warning (56–75°C or 133–167°F)
The CPU is warming up, but these readings are within the normal range. This is expected when running resource-intensive apps, connecting peripheral devices (such as monitors or external hard drives), or transferring data intensively over the internet. However, if your Mac has been operating within this range for an extended period, the temperature may rise suddenly.
Critical (76°C (169°F) or more)
The CPU temperature is too high and exceeds recommended levels. We recommend taking immediate steps to cool it down.
Cooling the CPU down
Close CPU-intensive apps.
The Top Consumers list helps you identify them. Keep only the apps you're actively using.
Close unused browser tabs in Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or any other browser.
Unplug external peripherals, such as monitors (especially helpful for Intel processors) or external hard drives.
Ensure proper airflow by placing your Mac on a flat surface, making sure the air inlets are not blocked.
Clear junk files from your Mac using the Cleanup module or Smart Care.
For more details on preventing overheating and cooling your processor, check out our blog article.
