PC benchmarks explained: PassMark, Cinebench, 3DMark and CrystalDiskMark

PassMark CPU Mark gives a broad CPU comparison. Cinebench tests rendering, while Geekbench offers single- and multicore scores across platforms. A higher score does not guarantee the same improvement in every app. Compare the same version and test, especially for Cinebench R23 and 2024 or different 3DMark workloads.

For gaming, look at your actual games at matching resolution and quality settings. Average FPS shows overall throughput; 1% low and frame-time graphs help reveal stutter. In CrystalDiskMark, sequential speeds reflect large transfers, while random access and latency are more relevant to many small reads and writes.

Record the exact CPU and GPU, memory configuration, drivers, cooling and power mode. For laptops, note whether AC power was connected. Compare several runs rather than the best result, and look at sustained performance after the system warms up.