Monitoring CPU frequency is crucial for understanding the performance and efficiency of your Mac system. Unlike Windows or Linux, macOS has its own set of tools and commands for monitoring system performance. This article will guide you through the process of checking CPU frequency on macOS using built-in tools and third-party applications.

Examples:

1. Using Terminal and sysctl: The sysctl command is a powerful tool that provides information about the kernel parameters. To check the CPU frequency, you can use the following command in Terminal:

   sysctl -a | grep cpu

   This command will list various CPU-related parameters, including the current frequency.

2. Using Activity Monitor: Activity Monitor is a built-in macOS application that provides a graphical interface for monitoring system performance. To check CPU frequency:

   • Open Activity Monitor from the Applications > Utilities folder.
   • Click on the "Window" menu and select "CPU Usage" or "CPU History" to get a visual representation of CPU activity.

   Although Activity Monitor does not show the exact frequency, it gives a good overview of CPU load and performance.

3. Using iStat Menus: iStat Menus is a third-party application that provides detailed information about your Mac's hardware. To monitor CPU frequency:

   • Download and install iStat Menus from the official website.
   • Open iStat Menus and navigate to the CPU section.
   • Here, you will find detailed information about CPU usage, frequency, and other metrics.

4. Using Intel Power Gadget: Intel Power Gadget is another third-party tool specifically designed for Intel-based Macs. It provides real-time monitoring of CPU frequency, power consumption, and temperature.

   • Download Intel Power Gadget from the official Intel website.
   • Install and open the application.
   • The main window will display real-time graphs of CPU frequency and other metrics.