Side by side
Macs Fan Control vs Open Hardware Monitor
Both stand on hardware monitoring software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan MacWindows
Choose Macs Fan Control for Mac fan and sensor monitoring, with fan adjustment options on macOS and an automatic return to Auto when the app quits. Look elsewhere if you need Windows fan control outside the stated Boot Camp setup or want Pro without a one-time purchase.
Visit Macs Fan Control
Free plan LinuxWindows
Open Hardware Monitor offers broad sensor coverage and several display options at no cost. Its Beta status, older listed release, and platform prerequisites should be considered before installation.
Visit Open Hardware MonitorThe facts
| Macs Fan Control | Open Hardware Monitor | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac, Windows | Linux, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 3 | 1 |
| Maker | Macs Fan Control | Not published |
| Website | crystalidea.com | openhardwaremonitor.org |
| On hardware monitoring software | #35 of 59 | #43 of 59 |
Macs Fan Control: what it does well
- Monitors fan speeds and temperature sensors, including third-party drives through S.M.A.R.T.
- Works on Macs with Apple Silicon.
- Supports fixed-speed or temperature-sensor-based fan control on macOS.
- Restores fans to Auto when the app quits.
- Menu bar can show fan speed and sensor temperature.
What to know first
- Windows fan control is for Windows installed through Boot Camp on Intel-based Macs.
- Custom fan presets are included with Pro, not the listed Free plan.
Open Hardware Monitor: what it does well
- Monitors temperatures, fans, voltages, load, and clocks
- Supports Intel, AMD, Nvidia, and SMART sensors
- Displays readings in window, gadget, or tray
- Publishes data through Windows Management Instrumentation
- Free and open source
What to know first
- Still in Beta
- Windows requires .NET Framework 4.5 or later
- Linux requires Mono with WinForms
- Administrator rights needed for most sensors
Alternatives to Macs Fan Control Alternatives to Open Hardware Monitor The whole list