Overview

Argus Monitor is Windows software for controlling fans and monitoring system hardware. Its inputs span CPU, GPU, HDD and SSD, motherboard, and AIO temperatures, letting users base fan behavior on more than one component. It also monitors almost all available HDDs and SSDs through S.M.A.R.T. data.

The scope reaches beyond cooling: supported devices can use Argus Monitor to change RGB effects and colors, while desktop tools expose selected hardware information. Compatibility is tied to supported hardware rather than guaranteed for every component, and RGB support is limited to listed devices. The software is associated with Argotronic eGbR, based in Munich, Germany.

Key features

Fan control

Users can set fixed fan values or build control curves, and manage multiple controllers and profiles. Hysteresis, averaging, and rate limits provide additional ways to shape how fan control responds to temperature changes. Supported hardware includes motherboard SuperIO chips, external fan controllers, and AIO coolers.

Monitoring and visibility

Argus Monitor supports monitoring across CPUs, GPUs, HDDs, SSDs, RAM, PSUs, and sensors, with motherboard details depending on supported chips. A sidebar gadget and configurable tray icons make hardware information available on the desktop. S.M.A.R.T. monitoring covers almost all available hard drives and solid-state drives.

RGB and custom sensors

On supported devices, the software can set RGB effects, static colors, or colors that respond to temperature. RGB compatibility is limited to listed hardware, with additional devices depending on user assistance. For expanded sensor and fan-control options, the open Argus Controller hardware project adds custom temperature sensors and control channels.

Pricing

Argus Monitor is paid software with a fully functional 30-day evaluation. No price is listed for the evaluation. There is no subscription: a license covers new versions released during its specified update period, and an expired license retains access to versions released previously.

Plan	Price	Terms
1-year license	16.45 USD per year	New versions released within one year after purchase; two concurrent installations.
3-year license	35.95 USD per year	New versions released within three years after purchase; two concurrent installations.
1-year renewal	11.95 USD per year	Reduced-price renewal of update maintenance.
3-year renewal	24.95 USD per year	Reduced-price renewal of update maintenance.
30-day evaluation	Price not listed	Fully functional evaluation for Windows.

Each license supports two concurrent installations. Each additional active installation costs $12.45 for three years or $5.45 for one year. The license key is emailed after payment confirmation. Existing licenses can be renewed up to three months before or after expiration.

Platforms

Argus Monitor runs on Windows, including Windows 11 and Windows 10 version 22H2 or later. Its hardware coverage is multi-vendor, but support depends on the specific components and controllers. Users can direct bug reports and technical questions to the contact page.

Who it's for

Argus Monitor suits Windows users who want to coordinate cooling with temperatures from several system components, keep an eye on drive health, or bring hardware readings onto the desktop. Its support for profiles, multiple controllers, and response-shaping settings also makes it relevant to users managing more involved fan setups. Check hardware compatibility before relying on a particular fan controller or RGB device; custom sensor needs may call for the Argus Controller project.

Pros and cons

Pros: Fan behavior can use temperatures from CPUs, GPUs, drives, motherboards, and AIO systems.
Pros: Offers fixed values, curves, profiles, multiple controllers, hysteresis, averaging, and rate limits.
Pros: Includes S.M.A.R.T. monitoring, desktop visibility options, and RGB controls for supported hardware.
Pros: No subscription, and expired licenses retain access to previously released versions.
Cons: Windows-only, with Windows 10 support requiring version 22H2 or later.
Cons: RGB support is limited to listed devices, and some additional support depends on user assistance.
Cons: The 30-day evaluation is fully functional, but its price is not listed.

Alternatives

For adjacent software categories, browse Hardware Monitoring Software, System Information Software, and PC Overclocking Software. Other options in the broader hardware-software landscape include OCCT, Quick CPU, ASUS GPU Tweak III, RyzenAdj, and Universal x86 Tuning Utility. For different diagnostic needs, consider HCI MemTest, MemTest86+, or Intel VTune Profiler.

Verdict

Argus Monitor brings fan control, hardware monitoring, drive S.M.A.R.T. checks, desktop readings, and supported-device RGB control into one Windows utility. Its range of fan-control options and multi-component temperature inputs are its clearest strengths. The main caveats are platform and hardware compatibility, plus the distinction between a paid license and the included 30-day evaluation. For users whose components are supported and who want configurable cooling alongside monitoring, it offers a focused set of tools without a subscription model.

	Argus Monitor	inxi
Free plan	No	Yes
Free trial	No	No
Paid from	$1/mo	Free
Open source	No	No
Platforms	Windows	Linux

Argus Monitor vs inxi

Argus Monitor

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