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For a quick summary of your PC’s model, processor, installed RAM, and Windows version, open Settings > System > About. Use Task Manager for live activity and CPU core counts, msinfo32 for a broader inventory, and dxdiag for DirectX and sound or video troubleshooting. Storage details are on a separate Settings page.
Which Windows 11 tool should you use?
| What you need | Best starting point | What it shows |
|---|---|---|
| PC model, processor, installed RAM, Windows edition and version | Settings > System > About | A quick device summary; it is not a complete component inventory. Microsoft Support |
| Storage usage and available space | Settings > System > Storage | A dedicated view of storage; other drives can be checked separately. Microsoft Support |
| CPU cores and logical processors | Task Manager > Performance > CPU | Core and logical processor counts. Microsoft Support |
| Live CPU, memory, disk, network, or GPU activity | Task Manager > Performance | Current resource use, rather than a static specification sheet. Microsoft Support |
| Components, drivers, or software environment | System Information (msinfo32) |
A broader built-in inventory and diagnostic view, with a caveat for driver status when not run as administrator. Microsoft Support |
| DirectX version or a shareable sound/video diagnostic report | DirectX Diagnostic Tool (dxdiag) |
The DirectX version and a report that can be saved for troubleshooting. Microsoft Support |
Check the basic specifications in Settings
- Right-click Start and select Settings.
- Open System > About.
- Under Device specifications, check the processor, installed RAM, and system type. The device model appears below the device name.
- Under Windows specifications, check the Windows edition and version.
- For disk capacity and available space, return to System and select Storage. If there is more than one drive, open Advanced storage settings > Storage used on other drives to inspect the other drives.
This is the fastest option when a support agent asks for a basic system summary or you want to check a CPU or memory requirement. It does not provide a complete inventory of every component.
Use Task Manager for live activity and CPU layout
- Right-click Start and choose Task Manager, or press Ctrl+Shift+Esc.
- Select Performance, then choose CPU.
- Read the Cores and Logical processors values. Select the other Performance views to see current memory, disk, Wi-Fi, and GPU activity.
Task Manager’s graphs show what resources are doing now. They are not a substitute for a static model or full hardware specification sheet.
Open System Information for a broader inventory
- Search Windows for System Information, or press Windows+R, type
msinfo32, and press Enter. - Browse System Summary, Hardware Resources, Components, and Software Environment for the information you need.
- If driver status matters, run the tool as administrator. Without administrator privileges, some drivers may be shown as stopped when they are not.
Microsoft describes System Information as gathering information about the computer and displaying a comprehensive view of its hardware, system components, and software environment for diagnosing problems. The tool does not provide hardware information in Safe Mode, and the fields shown may vary. For upgrade compatibility, check the PC manufacturer’s documentation as well.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
Check DirectX and create a graphics or audio report
- Search the taskbar for
dxdiagand open DirectX Diagnostic Tool. - On the System tab, read the DirectX version.
- Select Save All Information if a support person needs a report.
Microsoft says DxDiag collects information for troubleshooting DirectX sound and video. You do not need to install a separate DirectX version just to check the reported value: Windows 10 and Windows 11 already include the latest DirectX available for that Windows version. Microsoft’s DirectX guidance explains the check and report option.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Checking specs is not the same as checking Windows 11 eligibility
A hardware summary tells you what is in the PC; an eligibility check determines whether it meets a stated requirement. Microsoft’s Windows 11 minimum requirements include a 1 GHz or faster processor with at least two cores and an approved CPU, 4 GB of RAM, 64 GB of storage, DirectX 12-compatible graphics with a WDDM 2.0 driver, and a display that meets the specified requirements. Some features, apps, or added hardware may require more. Consult Microsoft’s Windows 11 system requirements for the full list and qualifications.
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
Microsoft’s PC Health Check guidance describes device health, storage, battery-capacity and device-specification features, as well as Windows 11 eligibility checks for devices currently running Windows 10. It can explain an identified compatibility issue; an upgrade may also be delayed by a safeguard hold. Check Microsoft’s PC Health Check page for the app’s current features and installation route.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
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Best Value
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
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