How to Control Fan Speed in Windows 10

To control fan speed on Windows 10, you’ll generally need your PC maker’s software, your computer’s BIOS/UEFI settings, or a third-party app, because Windows 10 itself doesn’t have a built-in feature for this. Below are safe ways to keep your system cool and quiet, or ramp the fans up for heavy tasks.

Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025, and only PCs enrolled in Extended Security Updates still get security fixes, through October 12, 2027.

Tutorial – How to Control Fan Speed in Windows 10

Check for Manufacturer Software

Look for any pre-installed software from your computer’s manufacturer that might control fan speed.

Many big brands like Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Acer include their own utilities. These programs are often designed specifically for your hardware and can offer the safest and most convenient way to adjust fan settings without diving into more complex areas. You might find them in your “Start” menu or by searching your system for terms like “Thermal Management,” “Command Center,” or “Power Manager.” Before changing fan settings, it’s worth running the maker’s fan test to make sure the fan itself works.

Access Your BIOS or UEFI Settings

Restart your computer and repeatedly press the designated key to enter your system’s BIOS or UEFI settings.

This key is often F2, F10, F12, or Delete, but it can vary by manufacturer. You need to be quick, pressing it right as your computer starts up, before Windows even begins to load. The BIOS or UEFI controls fundamental hardware settings.

Once inside, navigate to sections like “Hardware Monitor,” “PC Health Status,” or “Fan Control.” Here, you might find options to set fan speeds to “Silent” or “Performance,” or to manually adjust curves based on temperature. Be careful when changing BIOS settings, as incorrect adjustments can affect your system’s stability.

Use Third-Party Fan Control Software

Download and install a reputable third-party fan control application if manufacturer software or BIOS options are insufficient.

Software such as Fan Control (a free, open-source app), Argus Monitor, or MSI Afterburner (for graphics card fans) can provide detailed control over individual fans in your system. These programs often provide more granular control than built-in options, allowing you to create custom fan curves that respond precisely to your system’s temperature. Always download such software from the official developer’s website to avoid malware or unofficial versions.

After you complete these actions, your computer’s fans will spin at the speeds you’ve set, either automatically based on temperature thresholds or manually based on your preferences. This can lead to a cooler-running system during intense tasks or a quieter experience when your computer is idle.

Use the System Cooling Policy in Power Options

Windows 10 includes one cooling setting that affects how some laptops use their fans:

1. Open Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
2. Click Change plan settings next to your active plan, then Change advanced power settings.
3. Expand Processor power management > System cooling policy.
4. Choose Active to speed up the fan before slowing the processor, or Passive to slow the processor first and keep the fan quieter. Set it separately for On battery and Plugged in, then click OK.

If System cooling policy is missing, your PC’s firmware does not expose it to Windows, and you will need to use the BIOS or the manufacturer’s app instead.

Troubleshooting Fan Control Problems

Fan speed does not change in the software

Many apps can only read speeds, not set them, on laptops and prebuilt PCs. On desktops, check the BIOS to see whether the fan header is set to PWM (for 4-pin fans) or DC (for 3-pin fans); the wrong mode prevents speed changes.

The fan runs loudly all the time

Open Task Manager and look for apps using a lot of CPU. If nothing stands out, clean the vents, check that the fan curve in the BIOS is not set to full speed, and update the BIOS and chipset drivers from your PC maker.

The fan stopped spinning completely

Some fans stop at low temperatures by design (zero RPM mode), especially on graphics cards. If the fan never starts even under load, run the manufacturer’s hardware diagnostics and have the fan replaced if it fails.

Settings reset after a restart

Third-party apps must run at startup to apply their fan curves. Enable the app’s start with Windows option, or set the curve in the BIOS so it applies before Windows loads.

Tips for Controlling Fan Speed in Windows 10

• Always monitor your CPU and GPU temperatures when adjusting fan speeds to prevent overheating. Tools like HWMonitor or Core Temp can help with this.
• Start with small adjustments when manually changing fan curves. Drastic changes can either make your system too loud or not cool enough.
• Keep your computer’s vents clean and free of dust. No matter how fast your fans spin, if airflow is blocked, your system will still get hot.
• Consider the noise level. While faster fans cool better, they also create more noise. Find a balance that works for you.
• Remember that different fans, such as CPU, case, and GPU fans, may require separate adjustments or different software to control them effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions About Controlling Fan Speed

Why should I control my fan speed?

Controlling fan speed helps manage your computer’s temperature, which is crucial for its performance and longevity. If your computer runs too hot, it can slow down, crash, or even cause permanent damage to components over time. Adjusting fan speed also lets you reduce noise when your computer isn’t working hard, making for a more pleasant user experience.

Is it safe to change fan speeds?

Yes, it is generally safe to change fan speeds, but do so cautiously. The main risk comes from setting fan speeds too low, which can lead to overheating. Always monitor your system temperatures after making changes. Using manufacturer-provided software or BIOS settings is usually the safest approach, as these are designed specifically for your hardware. On Windows 11, disabling Turbo Boost is another way to cut heat and fan noise.

Can Windows 10 control the fan speed by itself?

Not directly. Windows 10 has no fan speed slider; the BIOS/UEFI firmware or manufacturer software manages the fans. The closest built-in setting is the System cooling policy in Power Options, which tells some laptops whether to speed up the fan or slow the processor first.

What if my fans are always running at maximum speed?

If your fans are constantly running at maximum speed, it usually indicates that your computer is detecting high temperatures. This could be due to intensive tasks, poor airflow from dusty vents, or an issue with your cooling system, like a failing fan or dried-out thermal paste. Check your temperatures, clean your computer, and consider if your cooling solution needs an upgrade or maintenance.

What is the best software for controlling fan speed?

The “best” software often depends on your specific hardware. For graphics card fans, MSI Afterburner is widely popular. For system-wide control, the free Fan Control app is a popular choice on modern desktops. SpeedFan, often recommended in older guides, has not been updated in years and does not support many current motherboards. Argus Monitor is another powerful option, often praised for its user-friendly interface and detailed control. Always check reviews and compatibility for your system before installing.

Related: before and after changing fan settings, check your CPU temperature in Windows 10. NVIDIA graphics card owners can also adjust GPU fan speed, and on a newer PC you can check fan speed on Windows 11.