Free utility for checking disk transfer rates
CrystalDiskMark is a free benchmarking tool that measures how quickly your drive can read from and write to storage. It runs a set of performance tests and gives you numeric results so you can compare real-world speeds or verify whether a disk is underperforming.
How the tests operate
The application executes several read/write tests (sequential and random patterns) and displays the throughput values on screen. The output is presented clearly, but the program does not include detailed explanations of what each test specifically measures or what ranges are considered normal for a given drive type.
When to run a benchmark
You don't need to test your disk every day, but CrystalDiskMark is especially useful if:
- You notice slower-than-expected performance
- You suspect the drive may be failing or behaving inconsistently Running the suite of tests helps identify whether the issue is related to the drive itself.
Saving and sharing the results
Once the testing finishes, you can copy the figures directly to the clipboard and paste them into a document, support ticket, or forum post for further analysis.
Limitations to keep in mind
CrystalDiskMark is a straightforward way to spot potential hardware problems, but it does not replace in-depth diagnostics. Because it lacks guidance on interpreting results, you may need additional context or a second tool to determine root causes.
Compatibility and alternative tools
CrystalDiskMark runs on Windows 11. If you want other free utilities to compare or cross-check results, try:
- PC Wizard — a general system information and benchmarking package
- HD Tune — a simple drive utility with benchmarking and health-check features
Technical
- Windows
- Free