Our verdict: Fan Control replaces several vendor fan utilities with one focused app that controls motherboard, GPU and many AIO fans. Curves can be mixed, smoothed with hysteresis and tied to any temperature sensor. Setup takes some tinkering, and hardware support depends on what LibreHardwareMonitor can access.
About Fan Control
Fan Control is a free Windows app by Rémi Mercier for controlling fan speeds. Its hardware access is based on the open-source LibreHardwareMonitor library, which covers many motherboards, GPUs and AIO coolers. A guided setup detects fans and pairs controls with speed sensors on first launch. The app itself is closed source, while its releases, issues and plugin list live on GitHub.
You build fan curves from temperature sensors such as CPU, GPU, motherboard or drives, using seven curve types including a custom graph. Mix curves combine several curves with a function like maximum or average, so case fans can follow both CPU and GPU heat. Fine-tuning includes calibration, start and stop percentages, steps, response time, hysteresis and avoid points for speeds that rattle. Plugins add third-party sensors and devices.
What it does well
- One app for all fans. CPU, GPU, case fans and supported AIOs in a single interface.
- Seven curve types. Including a custom graph and mix curves that combine several sensors.
- Fine tuning. Hysteresis, response time, step up and down, start and stop percentages.
- Calibration and avoid points. Measures each fan's RPM range and skips noisy speeds.
- Plugins and profiles. Add third-party sensors with plugins; save multiple configurations.
Who it is for
Good fit
PC builders who want quiet, coordinated fan behavior without several vendor apps.
Look elsewhere
People who want a set-and-forget tool, and PCs whose fan controller is not supported by LibreHardwareMonitor or a plugin.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free and bloat-free
- Mix curves across several sensors
- Very detailed tuning options
- Plugin system for extra hardware
Cons
- Hardware support varies by motherboard and GPU
- Initial setup and tuning take time
- Closed source
How to install Fan Control
Run the .NET 10 installer from the official GitHub release; a .NET 4.8 build and portable ZIPs are also offered. Use the guided setup on first launch, then build curves and enable start with Windows in settings. Fan Control now uses the PawnIO driver instead of the old WinRing0 driver that Windows Defender flags; update old versions.
Questions about Fan Control
Is Fan Control free?
Yes. Fan Control is free to download and use; the developer accepts donations.
Why does Windows Defender flag old Fan Control versions?
Versions up to V237 shipped the WinRing0 driver, which Windows Defender flags. V238 and newer use PawnIO instead, so updating fixes the warning.
