We review a lot of computers at CNET, and we've been doing it for a long time. Over the years, some of the methodology has changed, but our core commitment to in-depth product reviews has not. Our review process for laptops, desktops, tablets and other computer-like devices consists of two parts: performance testing under controlled conditions in the CNET Labs, and extensive hands-on use by our expert reviewers. This includes evaluating a device's aesthetics, ergonomics and features. A final review verdict is a combination of both those objective and subjective judgments.
When a computer -- typically a laptop, desktop, two-in-one hybrid or Chromebook -- arrives at the CNET Labs, we set it up as a typical user of the product would. As a best practice, during the setup, we disable as many of the invasive privacy and data collection options as possible. Then we update the OS, GPU drivers, BIOS and manufacturer utilities as needed, and use applications like Sandra from SiSoftware, CPUID's CPU-Z, TechPowerUp's GPU-Z and so on to gather information about the system's components, such as the CPU, GPU, RAM, SSD and mainboard.
Our benchmark tests consist of a core set we run on every compatible system plus also an extended set of tests for specific use cases, such as gaming or content creation, where systems may have more powerful GPUs or higher-resolution displays that need to be evaluated.
Dan Ackerman/CNET
The list of benchmarking software we use changes over time as the devices we test evolve. The most important core tests we're currently running on every compatible computer are:
Primate Labs Geekbench 6 and Geekbench AI
We run both single-core and multicore CPU tests, and either the Vulkan (Windows) or Metal (MacOS) GPU test. On Android, Apple devices and Chromebooks, we run the CPU tests and the Compute test. Geekbench's CPU tests measure the performance of a mixed workload. The AI test measures the ability of a laptop's CPU, GPU and NPU to run AI workloads.
Cinebench 2024 and 2026
We run both the single-core and multicore tests on Windows and MacOS devices. Cinebench measures pure CPU processing performance for 3D rendering.
PCMark 10
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