How to Check SSD Speed on Windows 11
Real-World Ways to Measure SSD Speed
There are a few different ways to check how fast your SSD is, so you can choose what suits you best. Whether it’s a quick glance using Windows’ built-in tools or a more detailed test with specialised software, you’ve got options. Here’s what you can do.
Check Real-Time Performance via Task Manager
Start by opening the Task Manager. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc and you’re set. In the window that pops up, click on the Performance tab. Here, you’ll see a rundown of all your hardware, including your SSDs. Select your SSD (look for its name or drive letter, like Disk 0), and you can monitor its activity in real-time. It’s handy for seeing if your drive is running slower than it should be.
Viewing Live Disk Activity
While in the Performance tab, click on the “Disk” section. This gives you a live feed of what your SSD is doing right now. It displays current read/write speeds in MB/s, which is great for quick checks, though it doesn’t provide in-depth details. If you’re working with large files regularly, or want more precise measurements, a dedicated benchmarking tool might be better.
Getting Deeper with CrystalDiskMark
If you want more detailed info, try CrystalDiskMark. This free download is a popular choice for benchmarking. It provides detailed read and write speeds for your SSD. Download it from the official site: https://crystaldiskmark.se/en/download/. Installation is straightforward, just avoid running background programs during testing to get the most accurate results.
Running Benchmarks in CrystalDiskMark
Open CrystalDiskMark once it’s installed. The main screen displays your drives, typically labelled as Disk 0 or by model name. Select your SSD and choose from tests like Sequential Q32T1 (for large file transfers) or Random 4K Q32T16 (for responsiveness). Press “All” to run all tests, which might take a few minutes. Keep your system quiet during this time—close unnecessary apps and don’t run other intensive tasks. Just you and your SSD testing away.
Interpreting Your Results
Once the benchmark is complete, CrystalDiskMark shows your read and write speeds. SATA SSDs typically range from 400 to 550 MB/s for sequential tasks, while NVMe drives often reach speeds of 1,500 to 3,500 MB/s or more. If your results are way below expectations, check your drive’s specs online to compare. Sometimes, issues like outdated firmware or fragmentation (yes, even SSDs can suffer from that) are to blame.
Tips for Accurate Testing
- Run tests when your PC isn’t busy — this leads to more reliable results.
- Close any unnecessary apps so they don’t interfere with the test.
- Keep your SSD’s firmware up to date. Manufacturers like Samsung offer tools like Samsung Magician to help with this.
- Use the latest version of your benchmarking software for the best accuracy.
- Check your SSD’s performance every few months, especially if your system starts running slower.
- Advanced users can also run commands in Command Prompt or PowerShell, like
winsat disk -drive C, for deeper diagnostics.
Common Questions About SSD Speed
Can Windows tools alone do the job?
Definitely! You can use Task Manager for real-time monitoring and PowerShell commands like Get-PhysicalDisk to gather more health info. Windows 11’s Storage Settings (Settings > System > Storage) provides basic info, but for detailed benchmarking, specialised tools are more reliable.
What if my SSD speeds are disappointingly slow?
There could be a few reasons: outdated firmware, too many demanding apps running at once, or loose cables. High temperatures can also impact performance—overheating isn’t good news for any drive.
How often should I check the speed?
Every few months is a good benchmark, especially if your PC feels sluggish or you suspect hardware issues. Regular checks can catch problems early before they get worse.
What’s considered a good speed?
It varies — SATA SSDs usually hover around 500–550 MB/s, while NVMe drives can be much higher. Aim for the specs listed by your drive’s manufacturer as a benchmark.
Does a faster SSD make a difference in gaming?
Absolutely. Faster drives mean shorter load times and smoother gameplay, especially in data-heavy titles. Upgrading to an NVMe SSD can be a real game-changer.
Knowing how to check your SSD speed helps keep your system in top shape. Whether it’s a quick peek or detailed benchmarking, these tools make it easy to stay on top of your storage health. Regular checks can help spot issues early and guide your upgrade decisions. Keep your SSD in good nick for a faster, more responsive computer. And don’t forget—upgrading your drive can significantly improve your day-to-day experience.
A bit of maintenance and regular monitoring can keep your SSD running smoothly. So, grab some tools, keep your firmware current, and stay in the know about your drive’s performance. Your PC will thank you!