How We Test Computers – CNET

Primate Labs Geekbench 5We run both single-core and multicore CPU tests, and either the Vulcan (Windows) or Metal (MacOS) Compute test. On Android, Apple devices and Chromebooks, we run the CPU tests and the Compute test. Geekbenchs CPU tests determine the performance of a combined workload.Cinebench R23We run both the single-core and multicore tests on Windows and MacOS devices. Cinebench measures pure CPU processing efficiency for 3D rendering.PCMark 10Were phasing out this Windows benchmark, but at the moment still run the last-generation variation, which simulates a wide variety of functions, consisting of web browsing, video conferencing, image editing, video editing and more. 3DMark Wild Life ExtremeWe run this test on MacOS (Apple silicon), Windows, Android and iPadOS systems; its one of the few cross-platform criteria available to evaluate graphics performance. We additionally run it in Unlimited mode, which gets rid of screen resolution as a variable when making cross-device contrasts.3 DMark Fire Strike Ultra, Time Spy, and Port Royal We run these tests on any system with a discrete GPU to evaluate a systems DirectX 11 or DirectX 12 graphics efficiency, which is particularly crucial for gaming computer systems. Were phasing out Port Royal, which was originally designed for Nvidia GPUs, and switching to 3DMarks DXR test for raytracing performance. Were also adding CPU Profiler, Storage and PCI Features tests.Far Cry 5 benchmarkWere phasing out this game standard, but at the minute we run it at the High quality predetermined in 1,920 x1,080 resolution. Were phasing in the RiftBreaker CPU and GPU criteria (its a complex simulation video game) and Marvels Guardians of the Galaxy in-game benchmark, both in 1080p resolution using their respective High quality presets. Both video games can work on systems with low-end discrete GPUs.Shadow of the Tomb Raider benchmarkThis is an older video game that balances the CPU and GPU loads instead of relying specifically on the GPU, and can run well on lower-end gaming hardware. We run the video games integrated standard on systems with a discrete GPU using the Highest quality predetermined in 1,920 x1,080 resolution.UL Procyon Video and Photo Editing testsIf a system fulfills the baseline requirements to run Adobe Premiere Pro and Photoshop with Photoshop Lightroom Classic, we utilize these 2 benchmarks at 1,920×1,080-pixel resolution to measure a systems viability for material development.

We review a lot of computer systems at CNET, and weve been doing it for a long time. The evaluation process for laptop computers, desktops, tablets and other computer-like gadgets consists of two parts: performance screening under regulated conditions in the CNET Labs and comprehensive hands-on usage by our specialist customers. Our benchmark tests consist of a core set we run on every compatible system.
Dan Ackerman/CNET.
The list of benchmarking software we use changes gradually as the devices we check progress. The most essential core tests were presently working on every suitable computer are:.

Battery life testFor all computers with a battery, we alter the settings to keep the system from going to sleep or hibernating, disable pop-ups and notifications that may interfere with the test, and set screen brightness and volume (output to earbuds) to 50%. We then stream a looped, customized YouTube video over Wi-Fi in Chrome and utilize a timer app to track for how long the system remains active.JetStream 2, MotionMark and WebXPRT 3We run these browser-based tests to examine Chromebook efficiency, and sometimes run them on Windows systems for comparison.
Josh Goldman/CNET.
As part of a review, we often include a comparison chart of ratings from relevant tests throughout equivalent products. When we make a major change to testing, such as moving from one version of a test to another, we double-test both variations or the whole old and new set to build up a database of contrast data.With so numerous computer systems utilizing the very same handful of GPUs and cpus, the very same operating systems and comparable quantities of RAM and storage, these benchmark results generally fit in with our expectations. Here are some of our present favorites, which are based in part on this testing, but likewise on our hands-on experience, the systems design and ergonomics, and, extremely notably, the general worth.

Primate Labs Geekbench 5We run both multicore and single-core CPU tests, and either the Vulcan (Windows) or Metal (MacOS) Compute test. On Android, Apple chromebooks and gadgets, we run the CPU tests and the Compute test. Geekbenchs CPU tests determine the performance of a combined workload.Cinebench R23We run both the single-core and multicore tests on Windows and MacOS gadgets. 3DMark Wild Life ExtremeWe run this test on MacOS (Apple silicon), Windows, Android and iPadOS systems; its one of the couple of cross-platform benchmarks readily available to evaluate graphics performance. We additionally run it in Unlimited mode, which gets rid of screen resolution as a variable when making cross-device contrasts.3 DMark Fire Strike Ultra, Time Spy, and Port Royal We run these tests on any system with a discrete GPU to test a systems DirectX 11 or DirectX 12 graphics efficiency, which is particularly important for video gaming computers.

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