How can I find out what CPU is in my computer?

CPU
1

I recently bought a used computer and need to know what CPU it has. I’m not very tech-savvy and couldn’t find the info in the system settings. Can anyone guide me on how to check the CPU details? Thank you!

2

To check what CPU is in your computer, you can definitely do it even if you’re not very tech-savvy. I’ll guide you through a few different methods based on how comfortable you feel with technology.

Using Task Manager

  1. Right-click on the taskbar (the bar at the bottom of your screen).
  2. Select Task Manager from the menu.
  3. Click on the Performance tab.
  4. On the left side, click on CPU.

Here you should see a bunch of details about your CPU, including the name and speed.

Using System Information

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type in msinfo32 and press Enter.
  3. In the System Information window, look for Processor in the main summary. It will tell you the CPU model and speed.

Using Settings

  1. Click on the Start menu and open Settings (the gear icon).
  2. Go to System.
  3. Scroll down on the left side and click on About.
  4. Under Device specifications, you’ll see Processor info.

Using Command Prompt

  1. Press Windows key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Type in wmic cpu get name and press Enter. This command will spit out the name of your CPU.

Third-Party Software (If you’re okay downloading a program)

  1. CPU-Z is a small utility that provides in-depth info about your CPU. It’s very user-friendly.
  2. Download and install CPU-Z from the official site (just google CPU-Z download).
  3. Open the program, and you’ll see detailed info about your CPU on the CPU tab.

Now, If you still have issues finding the CPU info via the methods above, there may be a problem with your system configuration or the PC might be very old.

Using BIOS/UEFI Firmware Settings

For a more detailed inspection:

  1. Restart your computer.
  2. During the boot process, press Delete, Esc, F2, or F10 (the key varies by manufacturer) to enter the BIOS/UEFI settings.
  3. Navigate to the CPU information section, which usually can be found under something like System Information or Processor Information.

Tips for Getting Specifics

For example, finding out if it’s an Intel i5 or i7, AMD Ryzen, etc., you’d use any of the above methods to get the exact model name and then google that model name for detailed specs. For example, if it shows “Intel Core i5-8400”, you can google “Intel Core i5-8400 specs” to get details like number of cores, threads, base frequency, etc.

Older Systems

If your computer is particularly old, some of these steps might look a bit different, but in general, you should be able to find CPU information through the system interface. If not, you can always open up your computer and look for the model number physically on the CPU, though this is generally less recommended unless you’re comfortable with hardware.

With these methods, you should be able to find out exactly what CPU is in your computer without too much trouble. Good luck!

3

@byteguru has covered most of the bases, but do we really need all these steps? Let’s simplify the whole deal because not everyone wants to jump through hoops or mess around with old-school BIOS:

Windows Device Manager

  1. Right-click on the Start Menu.
  2. Choose Device Manager.
  3. Expand the Processors tab.

Boom! Your CPU info is right there without opening a million different windows.

Pros & Cons

Pros: Quick, straightforward, no extra software needed.
Cons: Doesn’t give specific performance details, just the CPU model.

For the Adventurous

Instead of installing another program like CPU-Z (yeah, fine, it’s good but unnecessary for basic info):

  1. Speccy is an alternative, yet still overkill for this simple task. Ugh, benchmark fanatics love it.

Example of Simplified Use

Google “Intel Core i5-8400 specs” directly if you just need high-level info.

Side Note: Command Prompt

Okay, command prompt can be useful but why bother with it if Device Manager works?

More often than not, just adding more steps confuses people rather than helping. If you’re still lost, maybe ask someone who’s a bit tech-savvier to spend 5 minutes to help you out. Just my two cents.

4

Well, here’s a beginner-friendly way to get your CPU details without too much hassle. While @techchizkid and @byteguru have provided some solid solutions, let me throw in a couple of uncomplicated alternatives that won’t have you digging around too much.

Using Windows Settings (Quick and Simple)

  1. Right-click on the Start Menu and select Settings.
  2. Go to System > About.
  3. Here you’ll find a straightforward list, including your Processor specs.

Windows Device Manager - Straightforward

Although @techchizkid and @byteguru mentioned other tools, there’s another less cumbersome approach, especially if you find opening too many windows confusing:

  1. Right-click on the Start Menu again, and this time choose Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Processors section.

Bam! The model of your CPU will be right there.

A Slightly Different Take - Just for Fun

Another unique way to figure out your CPU is by asking Cortana or using Windows Search. Simply type “CPU” into the search bar next to the Start menu. One of the results will typically lead you to the system info where your CPU details are displayed. It’s not foolproof, but sometimes it’s a nifty little shortcut.

If All Else Fails - Physical Check (Not Really Recommended)

If you’re comfortable getting a bit hands-on, you can open your computer and look at the CPU itself. The model number is usually printed right on it.

Not a Fan of Downloading Software

I know @techchizkid mentioned CPU-Z and Speccy. While they’re great for detailed info, they can be overkill if you just need the model name. If you are not too comfy downloading and installing third-party software, just stick to the built-in Windows tools.

Caution – What If You Find Something Unexpected?

As a cautious adviser, I’d say be prepared for the possibility that the CPU might not be what was advertised, especially if you bought the computer used. Knowing your exact CPU model can help identify if you’ve got a good deal or if the previous owner wasn’t completely honest.

In conclusion, yes, you’ve got multiple ways to skin this particular cat. Device Manager and the Settings approach should have you covered if you just need the basics. And honestly, sometimes simpler is better, right?