What is CPU-Z and how to use it?

A simple guide to understanding CPU-Z

CPU-Z is a free tool and light that allows you know thoroughly the specs from your computer, such as the processor, the RAM memory, the motherboard and further. Developed by CPUID, is an essential program for hardware enthusiasts, gamers, and anyone who wants to check their PC components without opening the case. Available in versions such as CPU-Z portable or for WindowsIt's easy to use and doesn't require advanced technical knowledge. Here's what it does, how to install it, and how to get the most out of it in 2025.

What is CPU-Z for?

CPU-Z is used to obtain detailed information about your system's main components. Some common uses include:

• Identify your processor: : Displays the model, speed, cores, threads, and cache (e.g. Ryzen 5 5600X @ 3.7 GHz).
• Check the RAM: Details the capacity, type (DDR4/DDR5), frequency and latency.
• Getting to know the motherboard: Indicates the manufacturer, model and BIOS version.
• Check overclocking: Check if your CPU or RAM are running at adjusted speeds.
• Diagnosis: Helps detect problems or confirm specifications when purchasing used hardware.

It's especially useful if you want to optimize your PC for gaming, upgrade components, or just browse around. Although there is no official version of CPU-Z for Linux either CPU-Z for Mac, there are alternatives, and the version CPU-Z online does not exist as such, but you can download the standard version from their official website.

How to install and use CPU-Z?

Using CPU-Z is simple and only takes a few minutes. Follow these steps:

1. Discharge: Visit cpuid.com and download the version for Windows (there is a CPU-Z portable (which does not require installation).
2. Facility: If you choose the installable version, run the file .exe and followed the instructions. The portable version just needs to be unzipped and opened.
3. Open the program: When you start it, you will see a window with tabs like CPU, Memory, Mainboard, Graphics and more.
4. Explore tabs:
   • CPU: Name, current and maximum speed, cores and threads.
   • Memory: RAM size, type and frequency (e.g. 16GB DDR4 at 3200 MHz).
   • Mainboard: : Motherboard model (e.g. ASUS B550) and BIOS.
   • Graphics: Details of your GPU, if you have a dedicated one.
5. Save data: Click “Tools” and “Save Report” to export a report in .txt or .html.

You don't need to be an expert; the interface is clear and displays everything in real time. Variants such as ASUS CPU-Z either ROG CPU-Z They are thematic editions of brands, but they work the same.

Advantages and limitations of CPU-Z

CPU-Z has many advantages:

• Light: It hardly uses any resources, ideal for older PCs.
• Free: No costs or subscriptions.
• Accurate: Reliable data direct from the hardware.

However, it has limitations:

• Just information: Does not overclock or repair; only displays data.
• Not cross-platform: There is no official CPU-Z Linux or CPU-Z Mac.
• Essential: : It does not analyze performance like benchmarks (use Cinebench for that).

If you're looking for something portable, the CPU-Z portable version is perfect to carry on a USB stick and use on any Windows PC.

What versions of CPU-Z are available?

In addition to the standard CPU-Z Windows, there are variants:

• CPU-Z Portable: No installation, for quick use.
• ASUS CPU-Z / ROG CPU-Z: Custom editions with ASUS design, same functions.
• ASUS CPU-Z CPUID: Similar, focused on fans of the brand.

There's no official CPU-Z online, so avoid dubious sites that promise this; download it only from cpuid.com to be safe.

Conclusion

CPU-Z It's an essential tool for anyone who wants to understand their PC without complications. Whether it's to check your processor before an upgrade, check the speed of your CPU-Z RAM, or confirm that your motherboard supports a new componentThis program gives you clear, fast information. Its CPU-Z version for Windows PC (or portable) is a classic among gamers and techies in 2025, and although there's no CPU-Z for Linux or CPU-Z for Mac, it's still a leader in its niche. Download it for free, explore your hardware, and make informed decisions for your next build or upgrade.

CPU-Z FAQ