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Mobile device application for finding specifications easily

Mobile device application for finding specifications easily

Vote: (7 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: Piriform

Version: 1.16.317

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(7 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

Piriform

1.16.317

Works under:

Windows

What Is Speccy Used For?

Figuring out the stats or specs (specifications) for your computer can be a hassle. If you use Windows, both the system properties and system information may not satisfy your curiosity.

Speccy delivery better information. It's not just about giving more information; using system information on Windows will give you almost every detail about components, but in a format that's a bit annoying to check.

The better information comes from a user experience (UX) position that makes sense for most people. While the basic Windows info works in a pinch, it's easier to use Speccy to check CPU, RAM, GPU, and storage at a glance.

You're not just looking at how fast your CPU could be or how much RAM you have. Speccy allows you to check your temperatures at the same time as performance to make sure you're not overheating--or if you are, if it's worth the risk.

How To Use Information From Speccy

If you're using a general computer for office productivity, streaming, and browsing the web, the first page of Speccy is the best thing. When you open up most versions of Speccy, you're greeted with troubleshooting-friendly details:

  • CPU make, model and temperature. Speed is usually consistent unless you're overclocking, so it's more likely that you want to know if the processor is running hot.
  • Amount of RAM. If you're running low on memory, you need to know how much you have if you want more. Knowing the DDR type, clock speed, and frequency will help you check prices against what you already have.
  • Motherboard type and temperature. Most people wanting motherboard info will simply want the model. If the temperature is drastically hotter than the CPU--more than 20 degrees or exceeding safe limits--it's time to open the case and spray with compressed air.
  • Graphics. Most people want to know their GPU make and model, along with the temperature. It's the same set of questions as the CPU, since the biggest concern is overheating. It's also helpful to see the model since some sites sell fake GPUs due to the price crunch caused by bitcoin mining.
  • Storage. If you have multiple drives, seeing the brand, type, and storage size will help you when it's time to shop for upgrades or replacements.

If you're a system administrator and need to figure out specific patch and update information, the Operating System section delivers relevant information at a glance.

Knowing the Windows version, the .Net framework version (especially important for certain games), whether Windows Update is running or not, the anti-virus type(s) installed, and scheduled services are there.

What if you want more details about the CPU specifically? If the CPU seems to be running hot or if everything is slow despite having enough RAM, click there to check out performance details.

While CPU bootlegging isn't as common for most computer-savvy individuals, this is how you would confirm your chip. The CPU section with show the number of cores, the socket type, the bust speed, the core speed, and meters for individual core speeds.

Each section delivers visuals and meters for specific component details. This is a step up from the stock Windows system information because it allows easier decision-making at a glance.

What if you need offline details? Printing each screen via screenshot is easy, but you can also export the details to a text file.

Even as text, the information is arranged better than in the default Windows System Information screen. Components and their details are grouped logically, and the whitespace is easy to read.

It's all about presentation. There are many different ways to display sensor information, and it's both an art and science to get it right.

Speccy paints a beautiful picture that--while not as in-depth as many deep benchmarking apps--is great for anyone who wants a quick look at their system with a few deeper options.

Don't make a choice about avoiding or using Speccy when comparing it to benchmarking tools. Benchmarking is meant to be a more intense, focused set of real-time monitoring and results. Speccy is for a quick look.

Your best bet is to use both tools, and to use Speccy when you have a quick question about existing computer components.

Pros and Cons

PROS

  • Graphic and text details for different components
  • Exportable to text document format
  • Small portable footprint
  • Fast load times
  • Customizable security features

CONS

  • No low-power mode yet
  • Small meters. You may need to squint a bit, while other apps designs for mostly meters and graphs have bigger displays for visual learners.
  • Lacks many real-time monitoring tools used in full benchmarking programs

Speccy is a must for anyone who needs to check out even basic system information. The information delivery is better, it's a lightweight app, and the portable version is easy to management.