SpeedFan is free Windows software for monitoring hardware and controlling fan speeds when compatible circuitry is available. It reads voltages, fan speeds, and temperatures through hardware monitor chips, and can adjust fan behavior according to system temperatures to reduce noise. For storage, it reads S.M.A.R.T. information and hard-disk temperatures, with support for SCSI disk health and statistical data. Its “In-depth online analysis” compares a drive’s S.M.A.R.T. data with a model derived from millions of reports. The maker lists software RAID support and compatibility with ARECA, CSMI, and AMCC 3ware controllers, while noting that dependable RAID access depends on hardware-maker support. The download page lists Windows 9x, ME, NT, 2000, 2003, XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, and Windows Server 2003, 2008, and 2012, including 64-bit systems. Version 4.52 is the latest listed release. SpeedFan is aimed at power users, who are advised to observe its behavior before leaving it unattended. The maker cautions that motherboard access may not suit every system.
Who it is for
It suits power users who need Windows hardware, temperature, fan, or disk-health readings. Fan-control use requires a motherboard with suitable control circuitry.
What is good
- Free Windows software
- Monitors voltages, fans, and temperatures
- Reads S.M.A.R.T. disk information
- Online analysis uses millions of reports
- Supports custom events
What to know first
- Fan control needs compatible motherboard circuitry
- Latest listed version is 4.52
- Maker cautions against unattended configurations
- Hardware access may not suit every system
Verdict
SpeedFan combines hardware monitoring, disk-health readings, and conditional fan control at no cost. Its power-user focus and hardware compatibility requirements make careful configuration important.
SpeedFan plans and pricing
All plansCompared on hardware monitoring software
- Free plan
- Yes
- Supported platforms
- Windows
