PC benchmarks are not only useful for computer enthusiasts: stress tests are an excellent indicator of the health of the computer and not only that. Portal makeuseof.com speakwhy you need to check your computer and when you should think about maintenance.
Why do you need a stress test on your PC?
In a sense, stress tests can be considered a type of computer testing. Some PC problems may only become noticeable under heavy load, and the tests help push the CPU, GPU, and RAM to their specific limits to see how they can handle the load.
Typically, stress tests simulate heavy workloads, increasing the temperature of PC components and resource consumption to levels atypical for everyday use. But that's the problem; The tests are not designed to break the system but to detect potential stability issues before they develop into more serious problems.
One of the main vulnerabilities that stress testing can identify is temperature issues. During testing, the processor, video card and RAM will generate the highest possible heat. If your computer's cooling system can't handle the spike in temperature, your PC will most likely shut down during the test to prevent damage. Additionally, working on a computer with poor cooling can lead to component degradation, significantly reducing their durability.
Additionally, after installing new RAM or updating the BIOS, tests may reveal stability issues that may not be noticeable during daily use. Not to mention, the tests help validate the manufacturer's warranty: if your brand-new hardware fails, a stress test will provide accurate technical documentation of the problem.
Ultimately, benchmarks are a great way to prepare your computer for heavy workloads. For example, if you're building a machine for editing, video rendering, or competitive gaming, you should definitely test your PC to make sure the system can withstand all the pressure. With the help of the test, you will quickly understand how your computer can handle intensive tasks and which tasks will pose difficulties.
When to perform a stress test
Ideally, you should conduct a comprehensive check when buying a new PC or installing new components, especially if we are talking about ultra-thin laptops that easily heat up under load.
Did you build your own computer? Testing will show whether system components fit together as expected. Are you using an old computer? Tests will identify cooling problems or the condition of individual components. This way you can save on unnecessary upgrades: maybe performance can only be improved by a new fan or replacing the thermal paste.
It won't hurt to have an inspection done when selling or buying a used computer. Sellers can prove that their products work correctly, and buyers can ensure that they are not being scammed.
That being said, testing a PC is not a highly technical task and you don't need to run a million tests in a row. There are many free benchmarks developed for Windows that can check the state of the system; In extreme cases, you can look at the computer loading even with the help of demanding games. And to check CPU and GPU scores, programs like Prime95 or AIDA64 are suitable.
