Side by side
smartmontools 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 LinuxMacWindows
smartmontools provides command-line health checks and daemon-based monitoring across a wide range of listed systems. Its scope is focused on SMART reporting, tests, and warnings.
Visit smartmontools 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
| smartmontools | SpeedFan | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | SpeedFan |
| Website | smartmontools.org | almico.com |
| On hardware monitoring software | #45 of 59 | #50 of 59 |
smartmontools: what it does well
- Reports SMART health status and device attributes.
- Starts self-tests and reads their logs.
- smartd can schedule tests and send warning emails.
- Supports several disk and tape interfaces.
What to know first
- Functions focus on SMART monitoring and testing.
- A failing health status can predict failure within 24 hours.
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 smartmontools Alternatives to SpeedFan The whole list