NBench
NBench: A free, focused benchmark for Linux users comparing core system performance. Ranked #70 of 72 in PC Benchmark Software by our editors (3.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for linux users checking CPU and memory performance.
At a glance
- Editor score3.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forLinux users checking CPU and memory performance
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Workload areasCPU, floating-point, memory system
- Facts checked25 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Tests CPU, floating-point, and memory-system performance
- Compares results against two historical benchmark systems
- Includes source, documentation, and a Linux ELF binary
Where it doesn't
- Focuses on CPU, floating-point, and memory workloads
- Provides a Linux ELF binary; other systems are compile targets
- The maintainer's page was last updated January 2, 2017
Our verdict on NBench
NBench is a free Linux/Unix port of release 2 of BYTE Magazine’s BYTEmark benchmark program. Its native-mode tests measure CPU, floating-point, and memory-system performance, making it a focused option for Linux users who want to compare those areas rather than run a broad suite of benchmark workloads. It is also suited to technically comfortable individuals: the package includes source code and documentation, alongside a Linux ELF binary.
The comparison feature gives results historical context: NBench compares them against two benchmark systems. The vendor’s page says a run takes less than 10 minutes on most machines, and users can submit results to the maintainer for posting. Those features offer a way to relate an individual run to historical baselines and submitted results, though the available comparison focus remains limited to the two named historical systems. Choose NBench when CPU, floating-point, and memory measurements are the specific goal; it is a less natural fit for buyers seeking customizable test profiles or a wider workload mix.
NBench is free, and the listed binary is for Linux. The source is described as having been compiled on SunOS, DEC Unix 4.0, DEC OSF1, HP-UX, DEC Ultrix, and MS-DOS, so users of those systems should expect to compile rather than rely on an included platform binary. The maintainer’s page was last updated January 2, 2017, a relevant consideration for anyone weighing project recency. Linux users seeking a straightforward historical comparison can consider it; those prioritizing a broader platform package or more varied benchmarking scope should look elsewhere.
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NBench pricing
NBench fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Workload areas | CPU, floating-point, memory system |
| Operating systems | Linux; source compiled on SunOS, DEC Unix 4.0, DEC OSF1, HP-UX, DEC Ultrix, and MS-DOS |
| Comparison database | Yes |
| Result export formats | Not verified |
| Custom test profiles | No |
| CLI or automation | Not verified |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Linux |
| Built for | Solo (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | math.utah.edu |
| Facts checked | 25 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to NBench
- GeekbenchA broad benchmark suite for comparing CPU and GPU performance across five platforms.9.3
- PassMark PerformanceTestA broad benchmark suite with free standard tests and a $39 one-time advanced tier.9.1
- 3DMarkA broad benchmark suite for comparing GPU, CPU, storage, and gaming performance.9.1
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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