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CPU. Board. RAM.

Interpret screenshots, avoid scams, share clean reports.

CPU-Z identifies your processor, motherboard, and memory in seconds. Learn what each tab means, validate online, and fix common detection issues.

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CPU ID

Name, clocks, cores, cache, and instruction sets in one tab.

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Mainboard

Model, chipset, BIOS, and PCIe link width for driver checks.

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Memory & SPD

Type, size, channels, frequency, XMP/EXPO profiles.

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Validate

Submit validation for overclocking records or support.

Learn more

Who uses CPU-Z

  • Buyers & sellers — Verify CPU model and specs before purchase or sale.
  • Overclockers — Monitor clocks and memory frequency during stress tests.
  • IT support — One screenshot replaces dozens of follow-up questions.
  • Upgrade planners — Check socket, chipset, and memory type for compatibility.
  • RMA claims — Document hardware for warranty returns.
  • Content creators — Show specs in build logs, benchmarks, and reviews.
  • Students & educators — Teach hardware architecture with real system data.
  • Refurbishers — Verify components in used or refurbished PCs.
  • Benchmarkers — Submit validations to HWBOT and leaderboards.

Quick tips

  • DRAM frequency × 2 ≈ DDR effective speed (e.g. 1800 MHz → DDR4-3600).
  • Idle clocks drop with power-saving; run a load to see real speeds.
  • Enable XMP/EXPO in BIOS if RAM runs below rated speed.
  • Use F9 to switch clock methods when comparing versions.
  • Blur serial numbers before sharing screenshots publicly.
  • Press Ctrl+Shift+S for a text report.
  • Right‑click tabs to copy values to clipboard.
  • SPD data is per‑slot — switch dropdown to see each module.

Laptop buyers

Confirm the chip matches the listing. Sellers sometimes mislabel generations (e.g. 11th vs 12th Gen).

Overclockers

Use the Bench tab for quick before/after scores. Validate for leaderboards.

Tech support

Ask for CPU + Mainboard + Memory tabs to avoid back‑and‑forth questions.

Upgraders

Check socket, max RAM, and chipset before buying a new CPU or memory.

Get installer

EXE for Windows x86/x64

Portable ZIP

No install, run from USB

Validator

Share validation links

When to post CPU-Z screenshots

Forums and support threads often ask for CPU, Mainboard, and Memory tabs. Add SPD if the question is about RAM speed, XMP, or compatibility. Screenshots beat verbal descriptions and avoid endless back-and-forth.

Laptop verification RAM speed Upgrade planning Overclocking RMA Tech support Buy/sell Benchmark proof

CPU-Z does not show

  • • Temperatures (use HWMonitor, Core Temp)
  • • Fan speeds
  • • Real-time voltage graphs
  • • Storage health (use CrystalDiskInfo)
  • • Network info

CPU-Z does show

  • • CPU name, cores, clocks
  • • Mainboard & BIOS
  • • Memory type, size, speed
  • • SPD profiles (XMP/EXPO)
  • • GPU identification
  • • Cache layout

Best for

  • • Hardware identification
  • • Screenshots for forums
  • • Validation links
  • • Quick benchmarks
  • • Text/HTML reports

Common misconceptions

"DRAM shows half the speed"

Normal. DDR doubles data rate; 1800 MHz = DDR4-3600 effective.

"Clocks fluctuate at idle"

Power-saving reduces frequency. Run a load to see real speeds.

"Where is the temperature?"

CPU-Z is for identification, not monitoring. Use HWMonitor.

"Wrong CPU name"

Update to the latest version. New CPUs need new builds.

The program

CPU-Z ARM64 build for Snapdragon Windows

ARM64 / Snapdragon

CPU-Z interface

Main window

CPU-Z tabs

Tabs view

CPU-Z portable

Portable

CPU-Z screenshots

Screenshots

Compact utility for CPU, mainboard, and memory info.

Windows x86/x64

Full desktop version with all tabs. Runs on Windows 7 through 11.

Portable build

No installation — extract and run from any folder or USB drive.

Android & ARM64

Separate builds for Android phones and Snapdragon Windows PCs.

Languages and skins

CPU-Z supports multiple languages. OEM skins (ASUS ROG, MSI, Gigabyte, etc.) are available from the download page. The default English build is recommended for clarity when sharing screenshots.

WHY FORUMS ASK FOR CPU-Z

CPU-Z is a long-standing freeware utility that reads identification and timing data from your processor, motherboard, memory modules (SPD), and graphics adapter — without guessing from the Windows label alone.

People paste CPU-Z screenshots when they want strangers on the internet to verify whether a laptop “really has” the CPU they paid for, whether RAM is running at the right speed, or whether a BIOS update changed memory timings. It is also used before selling a PC, RMA conversations, and upgrade planning (socket, chipset, memory type).

  • Buyers and sellers compare CPU name, stepping, and core speeds to listings.
  • Overclockers watch core clocks and memory frequency while testing stability.
  • IT helpers ask for a CPU-Z + Mainboard + Memory trio to avoid twenty follow-up questions.
  • Benchmarkers submit validation links for HWBOT and other leaderboards.
  • System builders confirm component compatibility before or after assembly.
  • Refurbishers document hardware in used or refurbished systems.

Unlike generic “System Information” tools, CPU-Z reads low-level hardware registers and SPD chips directly, so the data is authoritative for identification purposes. For temperatures and voltages, use HWMonitor or similar — CPU-Z focuses on specs, not real-time monitoring.

Laptop vs desktop — CPU-Z works the same on both. Soldered laptop RAM may show limited SPD. Laptops on battery often report lower clocks due to power-saving.

What CPU-Z reports (high level)

CPU tab

Name, code name, socket, process node, core/thread count, clocks, cache sizes, and supported instruction sets.

Mainboard tab

Manufacturer, model, chipset, BIOS version, PCI-Express link info — useful to confirm whether a board revision matches drivers you need.

Memory + SPD

Memory type, size, channel mode, and frequency. SPD dumps module part numbers, XMP/EXPO profiles where exposed, and timings — critical for “why is my RAM 2400 instead of 3600?” threads.

Graphics & Bench

GPU model, process, clocks, and a simple benchmark tab for rough comparisons (not a replacement for dedicated stress tests).

Caches tab

L1/L2/L3 cache sizes, associativity, and line size. Helps confirm cache topology for optimization and debugging.

Bench tab

Single- and multi-threaded benchmark for quick CPU comparisons. Use Cinebench or Geekbench for formal testing.

Windows 11 supported. All tabs update in real time except SPD (static until you switch slots).

Key fields at a glance

CPU — Name, Cores, Threads, Clock, Multiplier, Voltage
Mainboard — Manufacturer, Model, Chipset, BIOS
Memory — Type, Size, Channels, DRAM Freq, NB Freq
SPD — Slot, Manufacturer, Part Number, XMP profiles

Tabs explained — what to screenshot for help

When someone says “post CPU-Z”, they usually mean CPU, Mainboard, and Memory. Add SPD if the question is about RAM kits or XMP.

CPU tab — clocks that “bounce” are often normal

Idle clocks drop because of power-saving (Intel SpeedStep, AMD Cool’n’Quiet, modern CPPC). Under load, you should see the CPU approach its advertised or PBO-boosted speeds. If it never rises, check power plan, thermal throttling, or laptop “quiet mode”.

Press F9 to switch clock computation methods if you are comparing behavior across versions.

Memory tab — DDR “DRAM frequency” vs marketed speed

DDR effective data rate is roughly 2× the DRAM frequency shown (DDR double-pumps). A 1800 MHz DRAM clock corresponds to DDR4-3600 effective. If the number looks “half” of what you expect, verify whether you are reading the right field and whether XMP/EXPO is enabled in BIOS.

SPD tab — when modules look “wrong”

Bandwidth can be computed from conservative SPD timing fields; kits rated at higher voltage via XMP may appear lower at JEDEC defaults. Always compare the SPD profile list with what is selected in BIOS.

Mainboard tab — driver and BIOS checks

Manufacturer and model help you find the right chipset drivers. BIOS version matters for microcode updates and AGESA revisions. PCIe link width confirms your GPU is running at x16 (or x8 if bifurcated).

Graphics tab — GPU identification

Shows GPU name, process, and clocks. Useful for hybrid laptop setups (integrated + discrete) to confirm which GPU is active. For detailed monitoring, use GPU-Z or vendor tools.

Caches tab — L1, L2, L3 layout

Cache sizes, associativity, and line sizes. Helps developers and power users understand cache topology. Rarely needed for forum screenshots unless the question is about cache hierarchy or optimization.

DDR speed quick reference

DRAM freq (MHz)DDR effective
1066DDR4-2133
1200DDR4-2400
1600DDR4-3200
1800DDR4-3600
2000DDR4-4000
2400DDR5-4800
3000DDR5-6000
3200DDR5-6400
3600DDR5-7200

ONLINE VALIDATION

CPU-Z can produce a validation file and an online submission used by overclocking leaderboards. The public validator at valid.x86.fr is the reference many users cite when they share a “validation link” instead of images.

Submit validation

Click Tools → Validate in CPU-Z, or use the validation button. Upload the generated file to valid.x86.fr to get a permanent link.

When to use it

Overclocking records, benchmark submissions, or when a single link is easier than multiple screenshots. Validations include CPU, mainboard, memory, and GPU data.

Privacy tip

Validations can expose hardware details publicly. If you only need tech support, prefer screenshots with serial numbers blurred, or share files only in private tickets.

CPU-Z v2.19 Windows

Download CPU-Z

Installer and portable ZIP (x86/x64). Use the buttons below — third-party mirrors sometimes bundle adware.

Pick one

.exe or .zip

Most users

Installer

Auto 32/64-bit, Start Menu shortcuts, uninstall entry in Settings.

cpu-z_2.19-en.exe Download installer
Portable

ZIP (no install)

Extract and run — USB sticks, locked-down PCs, no admin rights.

cpu-z_2.19-en.zip Download ZIP

Chinese builds, OEM skins (ASUS ROG, MSI, Gigabyte, …), and legacy Windows 9x builds are listed on the official CPU-Z site.

Installer vs ZIP

Installer = Start Menu + uninstall. ZIP = portable folder, no install.

32-bit vs 64-bit

The installer selects the right binary; on 64-bit Windows, 64-bit runs by default.

Avoid adware

Stick to trusted sources; random mirrors may add toolbars or junk.

Install, remove, and optional cpuz.ini

Since version 1.51, CPU-Z ships with an installer that registers uninstall entries under Windows Settings. Portable users keep cpuz.exe next to an optional cpuz.ini in the same folder.

Key Purpose (short)
SensorDisable sensor chip probing if a machine hangs during detection.
DMITurn off DMI reads (BIOS/mainboard strings) when debugging odd freezes.
PCI / SMBusNarrow bus scans — can affect chipset, SPD, and some sensors.
DisplayDisable GPU reporting for validator-related fields when troubleshooting.
ReportFileCustom path for text/HTML report output.
ValidateEnable or disable validation submission.

Full key list and command-line switches such as -txt=report / -html=report are useful for unattended inventories.

Command-line examples

  • cpuz.exe -txt=report.txt — Export text report
  • cpuz.exe -html=report.html — Export HTML report

Patterns people actually hit in forums

These are distilled from recurring support threads — written here so search engines and newcomers land on actionable wording, not dead ends.

  • “CPU-Z shows half the RAM speed”

    Usually confusion between DRAM clock and DDR effective rate, or single-channel vs dual-channel. Pair with SPD screenshots showing selected profile.

  • “My CPU temperature is missing”

    CPU-Z is not a full monitoring suite. Tools like HWMonitor or Core Temp focus on sensors; CPU-Z focuses on identification.

  • “Blue screen right after opening CPU-Z”

    Disable DMI/Sensor/SMBus/Display probing in cpuz.ini and re-enable one by one to find the culprit.

  • “Single channel instead of dual”

    Check physical slot placement (A2/B2 for most boards). Reseat modules. Verify BIOS memory configuration.

  • "Wrong CPU name"

    Update CPU-Z to the latest version. Older builds may not recognize new processors.

  • “SPD shows empty or unknown”

    Some soldered laptop RAM has limited SPD. External modules should show data. Try selecting different slots.

  • “Multiplier locked”

    Non-K Intel and non-X AMD CPUs have locked multipliers. This is normal.

  • “Voltage reads 0”

    Some platforms don’t expose core voltage. Use HWInfo or vendor tools for monitoring.

  • "Validation failed"

    Check firewall or proxy. Try again later. Some corporate networks block validation uploads.

  • "Caches tab empty"

    Rare on supported CPUs. Update CPU-Z. Some very new or very old chips may have limited support.

Before you buy — verification checklist

When buying a used or refurbished PC, ask the seller for CPU-Z screenshots (CPU, Mainboard, Memory). Verify:

  • • CPU name matches the listing (generation, model)
  • • RAM capacity and speed
  • • Mainboard chipset for upgrade potential
  • • Blur or omit serial numbers when sharing

Fix common issues (FAQ style)

Clock reads low at idle

Power management is reducing voltage and frequency. Run a short load (Cinebench, Prime95, or a game) and re-check. Laptops on battery can be more aggressive.

Vcore looks implausible

Try exporting monitoring data (e.g. from HWMonitor) when reporting anomalies.

Memory label ≠ SPD peak profile

Enable the kit’s rated profile in BIOS. If JEDEC is conservative, CPU-Z may show a lower default until XMP/EXPO applies.

Stress testing RAM stability

CPU-Z reads timings; it does not stress RAM. For errors, many builders still pair information gathering with MemTest86 or similar.

CPU stuck at base clock

Check power plan (High Performance), thermal throttling, or BIOS limits. Laptops on battery often cap performance.

Program hangs or freezes

Disable Sensor, DMI, or SMBus in cpuz.ini. Some hardware combinations cause detection to hang.

Android builds & Windows on ARM64

CPU-Z is also available for Android and for Windows on ARM64 (Snapdragon-powered PCs).

Android

Shows SoC, cores, RAM, storage, sensors, and battery info. Available on Google Play. Useful for identifying phone/tablet hardware before buying or troubleshooting.

Windows on ARM64

Native build for Snapdragon X Elite/Plus and similar ARM64 Windows devices. Reports CPU, memory, and system info for Always Connected PCs.

ARM builds have a different feature set than x86. Validation links work for supported platforms.

Terms explained

DRAM frequency
Base clock of memory. DDR effective = 2× (DDR4/DDR5 double data rate).
XMP / EXPO
Intel/AMD memory overclock profiles. Enable in BIOS for rated RAM speed.
SPD
Serial Presence Detect — chip on RAM that stores timings and profiles.
Stepping
CPU revision. Helps identify microcode and compatibility quirks.
Multiplier
CPU core clock = BCLK × multiplier. Non‑K Intel CPUs have locked multipliers.
BCLK
Base clock. Usually 100 MHz. Affects CPU and sometimes RAM when overclocking.
JEDEC
Default memory standard. XMP/EXPO add higher profiles beyond JEDEC.
PCIe link
Width (x16, x8) and generation (4.0, 5.0). Mainboard tab shows GPU link.

Brief history

CPU-Z was first released in the late 1990s by Frank Delattre (CPUID). It has been a staple for PC enthusiasts, overclockers, and support forums for over two decades. The tool reads hardware identification data directly from CPU, chipset, and SPD chips — not from Windows labels — so it remains reliable for verification.

  • Windows — Full support since early versions; currently Windows 7 through 11.
  • Android — Separate app for phones and tablets; shows SoC, RAM, battery.
  • ARM64 Windows — Native build for Snapdragon X Elite/Plus and similar devices.

Beginner’s first run

1. Download and run

Get the installer or ZIP from the official site. Run cpuz.exe. No admin needed for portable.

2. Check the CPU tab

You’ll see processor name, cores, threads, and clocks. Idle clocks may be low; that’s normal.

3. Mainboard and Memory

Mainboard = motherboard model and BIOS. Memory = RAM type, size, and speed. SPD shows each stick.

4. Share if needed

Screenshot CPU, Mainboard, Memory (and SPD for RAM questions). Blur serials before posting.

Pro tips

Keyboard shortcuts

  • F9 — Switch clock method
  • Ctrl+Shift+S — Save report
  • Right‑click field — Copy value

Report types

Tools → Save report (.TXT or .HTML). Useful for inventories, remote support, or documentation.

Validation for records

Tools → Validate creates a file. Upload to valid.x86.fr for a permanent link. Used by HWBOT and overclockers.

cpuz.ini for freezes

If CPU-Z hangs, disable Sensor, DMI, or SMBus in cpuz.ini. Some hardware causes probe issues.

Screenshot checklist for forums

When a forum asks for “CPU-Z”, capture these tabs. Blur serial numbers before posting.

✓ CPU — Always include. Shows processor, cores, clocks.
✓ Mainboard — For driver, BIOS, and compatibility questions.
✓ Memory — For RAM speed, capacity, and channel mode.
✓ SPD — When the question is about XMP, timings, or module specs.
+ Graphics — Optional, for GPU or hybrid laptop issues.

Bench tab — interpreting scores

Single-thread vs multi-thread

The Bench tab runs a quick stress and shows scores. Single-thread reflects per-core performance; multi-thread scales with core count. Use for rough before/after overclock or upgrade comparisons — not for formal benchmarking.

Reference CPUs

Scores are relative to reference processors. Compare your CPU to the list to get a sense of performance tier. For serious benchmarks, use Cinebench, Geekbench, or PassMark.

IT and deployment

CPU-Z can be run silently from the command line for hardware inventories. Use the portable ZIP for USB-based audits or locked-down environments.

  • Text report — cpuz.exe -txt=report.txt creates a full text dump.
  • HTML report — cpuz.exe -html=report.html for readable, formatted output.
  • No GUI — Reports are generated without opening the main window. Useful for scripts and remote collection.

Resources

CPU-Z Validator

Submit and view validations

MemTest86

RAM stress testing

This guide

Tabs, validation, troubleshooting