How to monitor Mac temperatures

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Monitoring Mac temperatures is essential for maintaining optimal performance and preventing overheating. This can be accomplished using built-in utilities or third-party applications, depending on user preference.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before monitoring your Mac's temperatures, ensure you have the following:
  • •macOS version 10.12 (Sierra) or later for compatibility with most monitoring tools.
  • •Administrative access to install software if using third-party applications.
  • •Internet connection for downloading applications and updates.
  • •Backup important data using Time Machine or another backup solution.

Method 1: Using iStat Menus

iStat Menus is a comprehensive system monitoring application that provides detailed temperature readings for various components of your Mac.
  • •Step 1: Download iStat Menus from the official website (https://bjango.com/mac/istatmenus/).
  • •Step 2: Open the downloaded file and drag the iStat Menus icon to the Applications folder.
  • •Step 3: Launch iStat Menus from Applications, and grant necessary permissions when prompted.
  • •Step 4: Click on the iStat Menus icon in the menu bar, select 'Sensors', and view the temperature readings for CPU, GPU, and other components.
  • •Step 5: To verify it worked, ensure that the temperature readings are displayed in Celsius or Fahrenheit as per your preference.
  • •Step 6: If it doesn't work, check for macOS permissions under System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy > Accessibility and ensure iStat Menus is checked.

For macOS Monterey and later

Ensure that you have granted iStat Menus the necessary permissions to access system data.
  • •Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy.
  • •Select 'Full Disk Access' and add iStat Menus if it is not listed.

For macOS Big Sur and earlier

Older versions of macOS may require additional permissions for third-party applications.
  • •Check System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy for any prompts regarding iStat Menus.

Method 2: Using Macs Fan Control

Macs Fan Control allows you to monitor temperatures and manually control fan speeds to prevent overheating.
  • •Step 1: Download Macs Fan Control from the official website (https://crystalidea.com/macs-fan-control).
  • •Step 2: Install the application by dragging it to the Applications folder.
  • •Step 3: Open Macs Fan Control, and it will automatically detect your Mac's sensors.
  • •Step 4: View the temperature readings and fan speeds in the main window.
  • •Step 5: To verify it worked, check that the temperatures are displayed correctly and adjust fan speeds if necessary.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while monitoring temperatures, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'No sensors found' - Solution: Ensure the application has the necessary permissions and is compatible with your macOS version.
  • •Issue: Inaccurate temperature readings - Fix: Restart the application and check for updates.
  • •Problem: Application crashes - Workaround: Reinstall the application and check for conflicting software.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your temperature monitoring experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Command + Space - Opens Spotlight for quick access to applications.
  • •Command line: `sudo powermetrics --samplers smc` - Displays temperature and power metrics in Terminal.
  • •Hidden feature: Set temperature alerts in iStat Menus to notify you when temperatures exceed a certain threshold.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regular monitoring can prevent overheating and extend the life of your Mac.