How to check your laptop’s specs

Emails and internet browsing don't require a high-performance computing setup. But if you're using your laptop for more complex activities like gaming, you'll want to know its specs. Those details can also aid with troubleshooting performance issues and checking upgrade compatibility.

Asurion Experts are your go-to for tech help. Whether you need to set up a new laptop or want home tech protection that won't let you down, we have you covered. Here's how to check laptop specs on Windows™ and macOS® devices.

Why you might need to check your laptop's specs

Downloading a new game or app? Check your laptop's specs first, especially if you have an older device. Modern games often require advanced graphics processing cards. You'll also need enough storage space and memory. Without the correct specs, the game may crash during play.

If you're upgrading to a new laptop, knowing your specs can help you estimate your current device's resale value. You can use the funds earned from a trade-in or sale and apply them to your next purchase.

Specs can also help you diagnose performance issues. For example, insufficient memory could cause websites and apps to shut down unexpectedly, or a lack of storage could prevent you from downloading new files to your device.

How to check specs on Windows

Windows 11 provides several easy ways to check the specs of your laptop.

System Settings

System Settings allows you to view your hard drive capacity, random access memory (RAM), and processor. It also lists the Windows version currently installed on your device.

1. Click Start > Settings.
2. Click About.
3. View the listed details about your laptop.

Task Manager

Windows Task Manager provides details about current running tasks and performance. Use it to view your processor details, RAM, and graphics processing unit (GPU) data.

1. Right-click Start > Task Manager.
2. Click the Performance tab.
3. View the listed details about your laptop.

Run dialog box

You can view your laptop's full spec list using a simple command in the Run dialog box.

1. Press the Windows and R keys to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type msinfo32.
3. Click OK.

A system summary that includes RAM, processor, and Windows version appears. You can explore additional details about your device by expanding the Hardware Resources, Components, or Software Environment tabs.

How to check specs on macOS

Not sure how to check the specs on a laptop running macOS? Follow these steps to view your device's RAM, CPU, GPU, and other key details.

1. Click Apple menu > System Settings > General.
2. Click About > System Report.
3. View the listed details about your laptop.

Understand common laptop specs

You're clear on how to check for laptop specs, but what exactly do they mean? Understanding how each component supports your computing experience may be important when it's time to upgrade your computer or install new software.

• RAM: Temporary memory used by your computer to run applications and perform tasks. Facilitates quick internet browsing and gameplay.
• Processor (CPU): Executes program instructions, runs applications, and manages your input and output devices. It can improve your computer's speed and overall performance.
• Storage: Your device's data is stored and accessed by a solid-state drive (SSD) or traditional hard drive (HDD).
• GPU: Renders images, videos, and graphics on your laptop. Higher-performance GPUs support modern games and graphics-related tasks like video editing.

Know if your specs meet the app or game requirements

How do you know if your laptop's specs are adequate for a new app or video game? Your best bet is to visit the developer's official site and check the listed minimum specs. Compare them with your device's CPU, RAM, GPU, and operating system to see if you're good to go.

FAQ

How do I check available storage space on my laptop?

On Windows laptops, click Start > Settings > About. This menu lists the device's current storage availability.

For laptops running macOS, click Apple menu > System Settings > General. Then, click About > System Report to view your storage data.

How can I see what graphics card my laptop has?

To view graphics card details for a Windows laptop, right-click Start > Task Manager. Click the Performance tab to see GPU details.

If you have a device running macOS, click Apple menu > About this Mac. Details about your GPU are listed next to Graphics.

Is there a way to check specs using the command line?

Press the Windows and R keys to open the Run dialog box. Type "cmd" and click OK to open the Command Prompt window.

Type "systeminfo" to view your computer's RAM, CPU, and current operating system.