Normal operating CPU temps?

[macman4789]

Hi,

Just wanted to ask what is a normal operating temperature for a MacBook Pro CPU?

I know with all the publicity of the new 2018 generation and whether they run hotter, I don't really want to get into all that but what is a 'normal' temp under web browsing/iTunes/word processing load?

Conversely, I know that each CPU has a maximum operating temp which can be found on Intel's website but what would be people's opinion of a normal/average temperature when under intense workload? e.g. 4K video editing/rendering?

Thanks

 

[maflynn]

I don't really want to get into all that but what is a 'normal' temp under web browsing/iTunes/word processing load?

Everyone's tasks are different, and throw in differing ambient temps, there may not be a normal temp

My 2.2 floats around low 50s to 60s during my day to day activities. The ambient temps are 24 to 30c, though I've been running my A/C a lot this summer

 

[Frieg]

It also depends on which app is used to measure the temps. Some apps like fanny show almost 10-15° lower temps than what the actual core temp really is. For reliable numbers i would always recommend the Intel Power Gadget.

Bottomline: All those threads about temps are pretty useless. You have a problem if your cpu clocks slower than it should under full load with turbo boost than other same models (because it hits 99℃). Thats something you can compare.

 

[macman4789]

Thanks for your replies. I agree that ambient temperature and other factors mentioned can contribute to the core temp. But when under load what is a safe temp? I mean can a cpu be regarded as ‘safe’ under temps of 90C if you’re doing 4K video all day?

What is a decent day to day operating temp under low load conditions?

 

[macdudesir]

Odds are, no matter what your temperatures are, they're most likely safe. People love to talk about this stuff but in reality very few people have an actual issue (not talking about the i9 issue before it was fixed, that was a whole different thing all together)

Anyways FWIW right now my 2017 13" is running at 35*C with fans at 0rpm with just browsing around MacRumors, listening to iTunes, email, and messages running.

Under a light-moderate load it can range anywhere from 50C to 65C...Full load I've seen close to 90C but not for long. Usually settles at low 80s.

 

[Painter2002]

My 2017 13” MAcBook Pro with Touchbar averages 35-40C ok light to moderate usage, heavy usage such as photo editing it might hit the upper 50s but never high enough to worry about it. And thats using it on a glass desk in a 74 F room. It will vary by user by ambient temp for each machine

As @macdudesir said, odds are this is something that you really shouldn’t worry too much about because in most cases (outside of the i9 throttle issue), most people will never truly reach temps that harm the computer. And if they do, you’ll know it.