Our verdict: CPU-Z answers 'what exactly is inside this PC?' in a few seconds. It is the standard tool for checking a processor model, RAM timings or whether memory runs at its rated speed. It does not monitor temperatures, so pair it with a sensor tool if you need those.
About CPU-Z
CPU-Z is made by CPUID, which also licenses its detection engine to other developers through an SDK. It reads hardware details directly from the processor, chipset and memory modules instead of relying on what Windows reports.
The window is split into tabs: CPU, Caches, Mainboard, Memory, SPD, Graphics, Bench and About. The SPD tab reads the data stored on each RAM stick, which is useful when you want to buy matching memory or check XMP and EXPO profiles.
What it does well
- Processor details. Model, codename, process node, package, core count and cache levels.
- Memory and SPD. Memory type, size and timings, plus the specifications stored on each module.
- Live clock speeds. Shows the real-time frequency of each core and of the memory.
- Built-in benchmark. Quick single-thread and multi-thread test to compare against reference CPUs.
- Reports and validation. Saves TXT or HTML reports and can submit an online validation of your system.
Who it is for
Good fit
PC builders, people buying used hardware and anyone checking RAM speed or a CPU model.
Look elsewhere
Monitoring temperatures, fan speeds or voltages over time.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Very fast and precise hardware detection
- Reads RAM module data (SPD)
- Small, with an installer or ZIP version
- Command-line report mode
Cons
- No temperature or fan monitoring
- The download site shows ads and many branded variants
How to install CPU-Z
Download the English setup from cpuid.com; it installs the right 32-bit or 64-bit build for your system. A ZIP version is available if you do not want to install anything. Vendor-branded versions for ASUS ROG, MSI and others are offered on the same page but are optional.
Questions about CPU-Z
Is CPU-Z free?
Yes. CPU-Z is freeware from CPUID.
Can CPU-Z show CPU temperature?
No. CPU-Z focuses on hardware identification and clock speeds. For temperatures use a monitoring tool such as HWiNFO.
Why does CPU-Z show my RAM at half its rated speed?
CPU-Z shows the actual memory clock. DDR memory transfers data twice per clock, so a value of 1600 MHz corresponds to DDR 3200.
