How To Control Fan Speed On Laptop Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

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5 min. read

Published on November 4, 2025

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Controlling the fan speed on your Windows 11 laptop can be essential for managing its temperature and noise levels. Whether you’re dealing with overheating issues or simply want a quieter computing experience, adjusting fan speed can make a significant difference. This guide will walk you through various methods to achieve optimal fan control on your Windows 11 laptop.

From utilizing built-in Windows features to exploring third-party software and BIOS settings, you’ll discover the tools and techniques necessary to fine-tune your laptop’s cooling system. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to effectively manage fan speed and maintain a comfortable and efficient laptop performance.

How Do I Adjust My Laptop Fan Speed on Windows 11?

Using Windows Power Options

Windows 11 offers basic power settings that can indirectly affect fan speed by managing the CPU’s power consumption.

Open the Control Panel. You can search for it in the Windows search bar.
Click on Hardware and Sound.
Select Power Options.
Click on Change plan settings next to your currently selected power plan.
Click on Change advanced power settings.
Expand Processor power management.
Adjust the Maximum processor state for both “On battery” and “Plugged in” modes. Lowering this percentage reduces CPU heat and fan activity.

Utilizing Third-Party Software

Several third-party applications provide more granular control over fan speeds. These programs often offer custom fan curves and temperature monitoring.

SpeedFan: A popular choice for advanced users, SpeedFan allows you to monitor temperatures and control fan speeds directly.
Download and install SpeedFan from a reputable source.
Configure the software to detect your fans and temperature sensors.
Adjust fan speeds manually or set up custom fan profiles based on temperature thresholds.
MSI Afterburner: Primarily used for overclocking GPUs, MSI Afterburner also allows you to monitor and control fan speeds for your graphics card.
Download and install MSI Afterburner.
Navigate to the fan control settings.
Create a custom fan curve that adjusts fan speed based on GPU temperature.

Accessing BIOS/UEFI Settings

The BIOS/UEFI settings offer another avenue for controlling fan speed, although the options available may vary depending on your laptop’s manufacturer.

Restart your laptop.
Press the designated key to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup. This key is usually displayed during startup (e.g., F2, Delete, Esc).
Navigate to the Hardware Monitor or Fan Control section.
Adjust the fan speed settings according to your preferences. Options may include “Silent,” “Normal,” or “Performance” modes.

Checking for Driver Updates

Outdated or corrupted drivers can sometimes cause fan control issues.

Open Device Manager. You can search for it in the Windows search bar.
Expand the Fan or Cooling Devices category.
Right-click on your fan device.
Select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for drivers.

Cleaning Your Laptop’s Vents

Over time, dust and debris can accumulate in your laptop’s vents, obstructing airflow and causing the fans to work harder.

Use compressed air to clean out the vents regularly.
Consider disassembling the laptop for a more thorough cleaning if you are comfortable doing so.

Tips for Optimal Fan Control

Monitor Temperatures: Use monitoring software to keep an eye on CPU and GPU temperatures.
Adjust Fan Curves: Create custom fan curves that increase fan speed gradually as temperatures rise.
Keep Vents Clear: Regularly clean your laptop’s vents to ensure proper airflow.
Use a Cooling Pad: Consider using a laptop cooling pad for extra cooling.

Let’s look at how software and BIOS methods compare:

Feature	Software Control (e.g., SpeedFan)	BIOS/UEFI Control
Granularity	High	Medium
Customization	Extensive	Limited
Real-time Updates	Yes	No (requires restart)
Ease of Use	Requires setup	Can be technical
Persistence	OS-dependent	System-level

Finding the Right Balance for Your Laptop

Effectively managing your laptop’s fan speed on Windows 11 involves understanding the available tools and techniques and finding the right balance between cooling performance and noise level. By following the steps outlined above, you can optimize your laptop’s thermal management and enjoy a more comfortable computing experience.

FAQ

Why is my laptop fan always running on Windows 11? Your laptop fan might be constantly running due to high CPU or GPU usage, inadequate cooling, or incorrect fan settings. Check your CPU usage and adjust fan settings accordingly.

Can I damage my laptop by manually controlling the fan speed? Yes, if you set the fan speed too low, your laptop could overheat, leading to performance issues or hardware damage. Monitor temperatures closely.

How often should I clean my laptop’s vents? It’s recommended to clean your laptop’s vents every 3-6 months, depending on your environment and usage.

What is the best software for controlling fan speed on Windows 11? SpeedFan and MSI Afterburner are popular choices, but the best option depends on your specific needs and hardware.

Does Windows 11 have built-in fan control? Windows 11 doesn’t offer direct fan control, but you can indirectly influence fan speed through power settings.