This article will explain how to find your computer's specs, using DxDiag on Windows, and System Information on macOS.


Contents


Why is this important?

When it comes to troubleshooting, it is helpful to have an in-depth understanding of the machine we are using. Sometimes, issues can arise from incompatibility & system overloads - being mindful of our Computer Specs will help us avoid these issues.

 

What Sort of Specs Are We Looking For?

Very generally speaking, the most important specs to know are as follows:

  • Your Computer Operating System (OS)
  • Your Processor (ie, Intel i7, AMD Ryzen)
  • Your Internal Storage Space, in Gigabytes (GB)
  • Your Internal Memory or RAM, in Gigabytes (GB)


 

Obtaining Windows Computer Specs Using DxDiag

DxDiag is a powerful tool for Windows operating systems. By running DxDiag, we are given a succinct window with all of the desired Computer Specs. Follow these steps to get there:

  1. In your computer's search bar, type in "DxDiag". You will be greeted with a program called DxDiag, symbolized by a blue circle & yellow x.

    DxDiag 1.jpg

  2. Click on DxDiag to run the program. DxDiag will then scan your system.

  3. If/when prompted, click Yes.

  4. You will then be given a screen with all of your pertinent computer specs.

    Dx Diag 2.jpg

  5. Press the Shift + Windows + S keys at the same time, to take a screenshot of this screen.  


 

Obtaining Mac Computer Specs Using System Information.

Apple Computers have a similar tool for retrieving computer specs, called System Information. The following steps outline the process of using this tool, and obtaining the information we need:

  1. In the top left-hand corner of your Mac, click on the Apple Icon, then select About This Mac. A window with basic Computer Specs, such as Processor Type, Internal Memory (RAM), and OS will be displayed.

    System Info 1 (2).png

    System Info 2.png

  2. Click on the System Report button. This will open the System Information app, automatically showing an in-depth Hardware Overview.

    System info 3.png

  3. In the column on the left, you can click through various different Hardware, Network, and Software sections, to get even more in-depth specifications.

  4. Navigate to the Storage category to see your internal storage space.

    System info 4.png

  5. Press SHIFT + CMD + 4 on your keyboard at the same time to take a screenshot of these screens. The key information will be in the overall Hardware Overview and the Storage Specs.