Need to know your PC’s specs? Whether you’re troubleshooting, upgrading, or just curious about what’s under the hood, Windows has several built-in tools to help you find out. Here are the quickest methods.

Method 1: DirectX Diagnostic Tool (dxdiag)

The dxdiag tool is a hidden gem for checking system specs, especially for display and audio hardware.

Simple way to open the tool is to search dxdiag on the windows start menu Screenshot of windows menu showing the dxdiag search results

Alternate method:

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog
  2. Type dxdiag and press Enter
  3. Click “Yes” if prompted to check for signed drivers

The System tab shows:

  • Operating system version
  • Processor (CPU) model and speed
  • RAM (Memory)
  • DirectX version
  • System manufacturer and model

The Display tab reveals your graphics card details, including the GPU name, manufacturer, and video memory (VRAM).

Pro tip: Click “Save All Information” to export a complete report as a text file — useful for sharing specs with tech support.

Method 2: File Explorer Properties

This is the fastest way to see basic specs:

  1. Open File Explorer
  2. Right-click on This PC in the left sidebar
  3. Select Properties

This opens the About page showing your processor, RAM, system type (64-bit or 32-bit), and Windows edition.

Method 3: Settings App (Windows 11)

Windows 11 makes it easy through Settings:

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings
  2. Go to System → About

Here you’ll find:

  • Device name
  • Processor
  • Installed RAM
  • Device ID and Product ID
  • Windows edition and version

Method 4: System Information (msinfo32)

For the most detailed view:

  1. Press Win + R
  2. Type msinfo32 and press Enter

This tool shows everything — from BIOS version to hardware resources, components, and software environment. Expand the Components section to drill down into:

  • Display adapters
  • Sound devices
  • Storage
  • USB controllers
  • Network adapters

Method 5: Command Line (for power users)

Open Command Prompt or PowerShell and try:

systeminfo

This outputs a detailed summary including OS info, hardware specs, network configuration, and uptime.

To save it to a file:

systeminfo > systemreport.txt

Quick Reference Table

What You Need Best Tool
Quick overview Settings → About
GPU/Graphics info dxdiag
Full hardware details msinfo32
Export to file systeminfo (CMD)

Now you know exactly where to look. No third-party software needed — Windows has you covered.