Overview

3DMark is known as the most prominent PC performance benchmarking software, used since 1998 by gamers and PC professionals to analyze the performance of CPU workload processing and three-dimensional graphics rendering, after which a benchmark score is provided. This score can then be compared to that of other users that have computers with similar processing capabilities to determine which areas your computer's graphic card is lacking in performance.

Installation

With nominal system compatibility requirements, the software will work with any computer that is equipped with Windows Vista or Windows 7, and has an AMD or dual core Intel CPU processor with a clock speed faster than 1.8 GHz. Perhaps the most demanding compatibility requirement of 3DMark 11 is that you'll need a Direct X 11 compatible graphics card. If you have a card that is compatible with an older version of Direct X, you can download 3DMark 06 (for Direct X 9) or 3DMark Vantage (for Direct X 10).

Interface

The main benefit of 3DMark 11 is that it allows you to maximize the potential of your video/graphics card within a user-friendly interface. Each of the aforementioned tests can be run from within a centralized control panel that allows easy access to all of the software's main features.

Pros

• Conducting 3DMark benchmark tests are perhaps the best way to test your computer's ability to handle the workload associated with CPU resource-intensive game.

• Creates a processor load that realistically simulates the effect of playing a graphically advanced computer game.

• Can be used to diagnose problems with your video card, CPU, or graphics chip, using four different graphics tests, a physics test, and a combination test.

• Each benchmark test provides detailed feedback in a user-friendly manner, and once this information is obtained it can be used to create a suitable course of action to enhance the performance of your computer through simple tweaks.

• You can use the benchmark score provided to conduct a search and compare results within your own personal online account.

Cons

• The free version does not allow you to run all tests simultaneously, so each test must be individually ran.

• You'll need at least 1 GB of system memory, and the file size of the software is somewhat large, at 280 MB.

What's New in Version 1.0.2?

3D Mark 11 utilizes the latest features of Direct X 11 technology, with multithreading capabilities that allow you to run several tests at once. In addition to providing in-depth performance statistics and aiding in the process of computer diagnostics, 3DMark also allows you to visually view and make adjustments in real-time using a 720p audio/visual demo. Although the basic edition described in this review only allows you to adjust performance presets, the Advanced edition (which can be purchased for $19.95) includes entry presets, extreme presets, custom settings, and the ability to generate separate individual test scores. Nonetheless, the basic edition of 3DMark 2011 1.0.2 still allows for an unlimited number of runs, and can effectively gauge your computer's graphic performance.

Alternatives

Although there are a few alternatives, such as  or , 3DMark is by far the most powerful performance . In fact, competitors could only be called extremely basic alternatives in comparison.

Conclusion

3DMark is by far the most trusted performance benchmarking software, known for delivering unbiased and highly accurate results every time.