Before you start
- A Windows PC or Mac
Method 1 Windows: Settings and Task Manager
-
Step 1: About page
Go to Settings > System > About. You’ll see Processor, Installed RAM, System type (64-bit) and the Windows edition and version. Shortcut: Win + Pause/Break.
-
Step 2: Task Manager
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc > Performance. Click CPU (cores, speed), Memory (speed, slots), Disk (SSD/HDD, model) and GPU (graphics card and its memory).
Method 2 Windows: full details
-
Step 1: System Information
Press Win + R, type msinfo32 and press Enter. It lists the PC model, BIOS version, motherboard and much more. Use File > Export to save a report.
-
Step 2: DirectX Diagnostic Tool
Press Win + R, type dxdiag. The Display tab shows the graphics card and driver version, useful for games.
systeminfoMethod 3 Mac
-
Step 1: About This Mac
Click the Apple menu > About This Mac. You’ll see the chip (e.g. Apple M3), memory, serial number and macOS version.
-
Step 2: More Info
Click More Info, then System Report for storage, graphics and all hardware details.
Troubleshooting
Installed RAM shows “usable” less than total
Integrated graphics reserve some memory, which is normal. A large gap may mean a loose RAM module.
GPU doesn’t appear in Task Manager
Update or reinstall the graphics driver; check Device Manager > Display adapters.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my PC can run a game?
Compare your CPU, GPU and RAM with the game’s minimum and recommended requirements, usually on its store page.
Where do I find my laptop’s exact model?
In msinfo32 (System Model), on the sticker underneath, or in your manufacturer’s support app.
Summary
Use Settings > System > About for the basics, Task Manager > Performance for GPU and storage, and msinfo32 for full details. On a Mac, open About This Mac.
