Keeping yourself aware of your computer specs can prove very useful, especially when you need to purchase new parts (such as RAM or a cooler), upgrade it, or just want to see if your computer meets the requirements of certain software.
Speaking of which, this interesting and very informational article shows you how to check your computer specs on both Windows and macOS. So let’s get straight to know everything here.
Components of a Computer You Can Check
Before we get into the step by step process for how to check your specs, it’s vital that you know what spec data actually is.
Having an understanding of what each part does will enable you to interpret information you come across and allow for better informed decisions. Here’s what you need to know:
Central Processing Unit
It does the computations and manages the tasks that your program needs to run. CPU speed, number of cores and size of cache differ from one processor to another; these are the main factors which influence system performance.
For instance, a quad-core processor is better equipped to handle multitasking and design applications than a dual-core processor.
Knowing which CPU you have can be useful if you’re trying to figure out whether your computer can handle a certain program or game.
Memory (RAM)
Random Access Memory (RAM) is a short-lived memory your computer relies on to store content that you are actively using. With more RAM, your system can work with a variety of apps at once without any interruption. Having more ram availability heps when you are opening a web browser with dozens of tabs or editing high-resolution images or playing games.
It’s crucial that you know what RAM you have, its size and type (DDR4 / DDR5 etc) when it comes to upgrading.
Storage (HDD/SSD)
Storage dictates where your data is saved, where your apps are kept, and what operating system you use. It’s useful to know what kind of storage you have, how much of it you’ve got and how much is left when it comes to adding new software or updating.
Graphics Card (GPU)
Rendering is controlled by the graphical processing unit (GPU), which renders images, videos, and animations. Dedicated graphics card is required for gaming, video editing, 3D rendering and more.
Some computers incorporate integrated graphics, which are part of the CPU and are good enough for basic functions like web browsing, word processing
Operating System (OS)
Your computer’s operating system is the software platform that manages its hardware and lets you run applications. Examples of operating systems are Windows, macOS and Linux. It’s therefore essential to know the version and build number of your operating system, enabling you to install appropriate software, security updates and drivers.
Motherboard
A motherboard is the primary circuit board that links all of your computer’s components together. It establishes the kinds of CPUs, RAM, and storage you can use and makes a difference for your server’s expandability. Though you likely won’t need to directly interact with the motherboard on your regular usage, finding out its model can definitely save time during upgrade or troubleshooting.
Network and Connectivity
Contemporary computers depend on network adapters to connect your internet, file sharing and any other peripheral devices. This could be Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, etc. By verifying your network parameters you take the guesswork out of whether your system can successfully access all online content at the speeds you want, and communicate with other devices in a smooth manner.
How to Check the Computer Specs on Windows
Windows includes a few built-in ways to see your device’s specifications, from basic information to advanced system details. Regardless of whether you’re a power user or an ordinary joe, the following guide will allow you to figure out everything that’s running on your PC hardware-wise.
Using the Settings App
The Settings app is the easiest way to see your basic specs. Here’s how:
- Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I.
- Navigate to System > About.
Here’s what you need to know regarding its exit, including:
- Device Name: The name of your PC.
- Processor: CPU model and speed.
- Installed Memory: System Memory installed (GB).
- System type: Tells you if your system is 32-bit or 64-bit.
- Windows version & edition : Handy for software compatibility.
This is a fast way and ideal for casual users who simply want a snapshot of their system.
With the System Information Tool (msinfo32)
For a more in depth look at your system, the System Information app generates a report of every piece of hardware and software on your device:
- Press Windows + R to launch the Run application.
- Type msinfo32 and press Enter.
The System Information window opens, and you\’ll see the following:
- The OS version, build number and when it was installed.
- CPU and RAM specifications.
- BIOS version and motherboard details.
- Graphics adapter and storage devices.
- Connected devices and peripherals.
You even can export this information by pressing File > Export, save it as a text file and then consult later. This can be especially useful if you want to replace hardware or when you require the specs for troubleshooting.
Using DirectX Diagnostic Tool (DxDiag)
Although DxDiag is intended more for multimedia and graphics troubleshooting, it does provide some system information including:
Hit on the Windows + R button, type dxdiag and click enter.
The tool appears in a few tabs:
- System Tab: Displays the OS, CPU, RAM and DirectX version.
- Display Tab: It shows the GPU information and driver version info.
- Sound and Input Tabs: Audio and input devices enumerations.
DxDiag is also important for gamers or other users with high-end graphics applications so they can have accurate information about their GPU and display settings.
Using Task Manager
Task Manager is much more than just the tool you use to force-quit unresponsive programs; it also offers a look at your system’s hardware:
- Hit Ctrl + Shift + Esc to bring up Task Manager.
- Go to the Performance tab.
Here, you can see real-time usage and specs for:
- CPU
- Memory (RAM)
- Disk usage
- GPU performance
Task Manager also can help you keep an eye on how much of your system resources are being consumed by performing various tasks.
Via the Command Prompt or PowerShell
For power user, Windows have command line based utilities for almost every thing which can be done in GUI.
Open Command Prompt or PowerShell.
Type the command:
- systeminfo
- Hit Enter to see more details about your OS, CPU, memory and network adapters.
To check GPU details, type:
- wmic path win32_videocontroller get name
- That will show what your installed graphics card is (or cards are).
Command-line options are quick and can be automated, hence for an IT person or a power user needing to manage agents on many boxen they will be the way to go.
Tips for Windows Users:
- Look at the System type (32-bit vs 64-bit) before installing any software.
- Backup system’s information or export it during troubleshooting.
- Use Task Manager and DxDiag for performance and detailed hardware information.
How to Check Computer Specs on Mac OS
As with Windows PCs, you have more than a few built-in ways to quickly see your Mac’s detailed system specs. Regardless of whether you’re running a MacBook, iMac or Mac Mini, these techniques will help you figure out what’s inside your machine.
Using “About This Mac”
The easiest method to view your Mac’s hardware specifications is through the About This Mac screen:
- Click the Apple menu () in your screen’s top left corner.
- Select About This Mac.
A summary window opens displaying:
- macOS variant: the system version your Mac is using.
- Processor: type and speed of CPU.
- Memory (RAM): installed size and type.
- Startup Disk: The primary storage drive / capacity.
- Graphics (GPU): data about the video card.
- Screen: resolution and connected displays.
You can also click the System Report button for a detailed view. This report includes hardware and software specs, network and storage devices, all peripherals attached to your Mac are included in the Mass Report for Mac.
Through System Information App
For those who’d like to dive even deeper into hardware and software specifics, the System Information app offers a somewhat more organized breakdown:
Go to Applications > Utilities > System Information.
You can view the selection of categories in the left sidebar like:
- Hardware: CPU, RAM, Storage and Graphic.
- Network: Wireless, Wired and Bluetooth adapters.
- Software: macOS version, installed apps and system extensions.
It has some useful data like firmware version, hardware id etc. for all sub-components.
The report can also be exported if you need to send your system info along to some support team, or keep it for personal archive by going to File -> Save.
Using Terminal
Advanced users who also prefer the command line can use Terminal to inquire about detailed system specs:
Go to Applications > Utilities and open Terminal.
Type the command below to get a complete hardware information about your system:
system_profiler
For a brief report as below for CPU, RAM and motherboard information:
system_profiler SPHardwareDataType
You can also export the information to a text file:
system_profiler SPHardwareDataType > ~/Desktop/MacSpecs. txt
Checking Graphics Card and Storage Details
Whether you are playing games, editing videos or moving big files, it’s important to understand what these parts actually do. Here’s how you can check this information on both Windows and Mac devices.
Checking your graphics card (GPU)
Your graphics card is what helps your computer visualize things. Some notebooks have hybrid graphics (integrated and discrete), some with dedicated GPUs to run intensive, processor-heavy demands.
On Windows:
Device Manager:
- Type Windows + X Type Device Manager And press Enter.
- You should be able to see your GPU model by expanding Display Adapters.
- For driver information, right-click on the GPU and click Properties.
DirectX Diagnostic Tool (DxDiag):
- Press Windows + R, type dxdiag and hit Enter.
- Just go to the Display tab and there you can view all GPU information like Memory, and driver version.
On Mac:
- Choose Apple () menu > About This Mac.
- Look in the Graphics/Displays section for GPU name, memory and connected monitors.
Third-party tools:
Applications such as GPU-Z for Windows and iStat Menus for Mac also provide more intricate details, such as the current GPU temperature, clock speed and real-time performance monitoring.
Checking If Your Storage Devices (HDD/SSD) are OK
Your hard drive is everything to the performance of your system, boot time, and how fast the applications you use perform. Knowing the type, size and health of drives keeps data safe and informs upgrades.
On Windows:
This PC:
- Open File Explorer and select This PC.
- Right-click a drive and choose Properties for additional information.
Disk Management:
- Type in Windows + X and choose Disk Management.
- View all attached disks, partitions and classes (HDD vs. SSD).
On Mac:
- About This Mac > Storage:
- Click the Apple menu () > About This Mac > Storage.
- See free space, drive type and usage broken down by category.
Disk Utility:
- Open and go to Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility.
- Verify drive information, format type, capacity, and health status.
A Few Tips on Graphics and Storage Checks
- If you’re going to be replacing the GPU, just make sure your motherboard and power supply will support a new card.
- In terms of storage upgrade options, SSDs are ideal for speed and HDDs are better for cost-per-gigabyte storage capacity.
- Use third-party tools to monitor GPU and storage health consistently, so as not to lose performance or data.
Checking Network and Connectivity Specs
Computers these days are all about connectivity, whether it’s getting online or sharing files or hooking up a peripheral. Here’s how you can check network configurations on different devices.
Checking Network Specifications on Windows
Windows offers several methods in which to view the network adapters and your connection to each:
Network Connections Panel:
Press Windows + R, type ncpa.cpl, and press Enter.
This will bring up the Network Connections window, where all of your Ethernet and Wi-FI adapters are listed.
Click on a connection and choose Status to see the speed, type of connection, and recent activity.
Command Prompt / PowerShell:
Open Command Prompt and type:
ipconfig/all
This would provide print details of the network adapter along with IP addresses, MAC addresses and DNS servers.
Settings App:
Now hit the Windows key+I to open the settings section > Network and Internet.
See the list of connected networks and check Wi-Fi speed, available adapters.
These can be handy when you have a poor connection, and to ensure that the adapters will work or if you’re debugging your network.
Checking Network Specs on Mac
To check network and connectivity specs on macOS, you have the following ways:
System Information:
- Choose Apple menu > About This Mac, then click System Report.
- Go to Network in the left sidebar.
See details of Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth adapters, including MAC address and maximum speeds.
Wi-Fi Menu:
- While holding down the Option key, click the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar.
- View specifics like channel, signal strength, and connection speed.
Bluetooth and peripheral connection Test
Windows:
- Press Windows + I > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
- See devices that are connected and make sure they are is compatible.
Mac:
- Open System Preferences > Bluetooth.
- Confirm paired devices and the status of connections.
How To Do Good Network And Connectivity Checks
Keep all network adapters’ drivers and firmware updated to keep running stably and at the speed you need.
You can also use speed test tools (such as Ookla Speedtest) for confirming real-world network performance.
How to Maintain and Monitor Your Computer’s Hardware Specs
Here are a few good practical tips on how to keep and monitor your laptop or gaming PC’s specs:
Document Your Specs
- Make a note on your CPU, RAM, GPU, storage and OS version.
- Provide some specifics: motherboard model, BIOS version, network adapters.
It’s useful to have this written down somewhere in a doc or note for troubleshooting, upgrades, or resale.
Export System Reports
Here’s how to do it in both Windows and Mac:
- Windows: Go to msinfo32 > File > Export.
- Mac: System Information > File > Save.
These reports include a wealth of information about your hardware and software that you can save to consult later, or send along with tech support requests.
Conclusion
Knowing your system’s CPU, RAM, disk, GPU and network is important when using it for software development or even hardware upgrades.
Windows and Mac both include tools for easily viewing system specs, System Information and Task Manager on Windows, DxDiag and About This Mac on macOS. Advanced users can get even more detailed hardware performance and temperature indicators, as well as upgrade options, through command line options and third-party apps such as CPU-Z, Speccy, HWMonitor or iStat Menus.
By consistently recording and gathering your computer’s specifications, you can keep your drivers and software up-to-date. This not only optimises the performance of your system, but also prevents potential crashes along with increasing the life span of a device.