
Use both to fully understand the capabilities of a CPU. Then use real-world benchmarks to get a better sense of how the CPU will perform in day to day use. Check synthetic benchmarks for a big-picture view of the strengths of a specific CPU. Synthetic and real-world benchmarks can complement one another. Lower times are better.īecause some processors excel at certain types of CPU benchmark tests, it’s best to check several benchmarks instead of relying on a single number. In rendering benchmark tests, render time measures the speed at which your CPU renders the geometry, lighting, and textures in a 3D scene. Higher is better, but take the score with a grain of salt when comparing CPUs from different generations, as the means of executing instructions vary. In data compression tests, MIPS measures the number of low-level instructions executed by the CPU every second.

In video encoding tests, FPS counts the number of frames your CPU encodes per second. A lower % of dropped frames is preferable. This can cause jumpy playback for viewers. In streaming benchmark tests, dropped frames counts the number of frames lost while encoding video.

Real-world tests, on the other hand, use a range of different measurements. Use a test that reflects the way you plan on using your CPU. A higher-performance CPU is one that scores higher, though it’s important to remember different CPUs are designed for different purposes not all are gaming-focused. Scores are often measured in “marks” (or another program-specific term). In synthetic tests, the scoring system will vary by program.
Computer benchmark tools how to#
Now that you know about the various kinds of benchmarking tests, let’s look at how to read the scores. As long as your system configuration remains the same, the benchmarks give an accurate reading of the in-game performance you’ll get. These tests provide a repeatable test environment. Use in-game benchmarks to check the CPU’s effect on FPS (frames per second) during regular gameplay and also while streaming. These are non-interactive scenes that are available in some games. In-game benchmark tools are another type of real-world test. Handbrake to measure a CPU’s video encoding speeds.Blender to measure a CPU’s 3D rendering speeds.7-Zip to measure a CPU’s data compression and decompression speeds.Some commonly used applications for real-world benchmarking include: As a result, they provide a reliable preview of system performance when using the same settings. These tests are performed by giving real programs heavy workloads and then measuring the time it takes to complete.
Computer benchmark tools Pc#
Use real-world benchmarks when you have specific plans in mind for your PC and need an accurate indication of performance for particular applications.

The scores are “synthetic” because the tests used to calculate them are simulations. After measuring CPU performance levels at each task, the numbers are weighted and combined into a single score. Synthetic tests simulate many different tasks: 3D rendering, file compression, web browsing, floating-point calculations, and so on.

Use synthetic benchmarks when looking for a quick, general comparison between CPUs. These fall into two categories: Synthetic and real-world. CPU reviewers rely on a range of different CPU benchmark tests to evaluate CPUs.
