How to Check Computer Speed for Base Frequencies
The base clock speed is the speed with which your processor is guaranteed to run during normal utilization. It will typically run faster when it can, but this is the lowest frequency you would typically expect your CPU to operate at. Windows and macOS have their own built-in methods for checking your CPU’s base clock.
Windows
Check Computer Speed on MacOS
Check Computer Speed Boost Clocks on Windows
To know the typical clock speed and maximum clock speed(s) that your CPU can run at, you need to use a bespoke piece of software. For Windows PCs, CPUZ is one of the best.
Check Computer Speed Boost Clocks on MacOS
Checking the active boost frequency of your CPU on MacOS requires a tool of its own. The best is Intel Power Monitor.
What Is CPU speed?
CPU speed is an important metric for how fast your computer is. It’s not the be all and end all, especially when it comes to games, but knowing how fast your processor is running can help you find ways to improve performance, make sure you’re getting the most from your existing hardware, and better know when it’s time to upgrade. There are a lot of factors that go into a processor’s speed at any particular task. Its number of cores and supportive threads can be an important factor in software applications that can really support multi-threading. Cache size is important too, as is the age of a CPU and its underlying architecture. Typically, however, when people mention CPU speed, they’re colloquially referring to clock speed. That’s the number of cycles with which a processor can conduct tasks per second. In modern processors it’s typically referred to in gigahertz (GHz), usually in multiple single digits. The fastest processors in the world can operate at above five gigahertz (displayed as 5.0GHz) while more modest options might run under two gigahertz (2.0GHz).
Does CPU Speed Stay the Same All the Time?
No it does not. Modern processors use clever algorithms to “boost” the frequency of their clock speed when it’s required and when power and thermal limits haven’t been reached. Some CPUs can operate at these higher frequencies for prolonged periods of time, while others do so for short periods of time and then downclock, or lower the frequency, to keep temperatures low. Processors with inadequate cooling or coolers that are clogged with dust, may consistently run at a slower speed to avoid overheating.
