Side by side
Macs Fan Control vs SpeedFan
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 Windows
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.
Visit SpeedFanThe facts
| Macs Fan Control | SpeedFan | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac, Windows | Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 3 | 1 |
| Maker | Macs Fan Control | SpeedFan |
| Website | crystalidea.com | almico.com |
| On hardware monitoring software | #35 of 59 | #50 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.
SpeedFan: what it does well
- 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
Alternatives to Macs Fan Control Alternatives to SpeedFan The whole list