Windows 10 doesn’t have one all-in-one hardware test, but it includes several built-in diagnostic tools. To test your memory (RAM), press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and choose Restart now and check for problems. To check your drive, run chkdsk C: /scan in an admin Command Prompt. For a full hardware checkup, run your PC maker’s diagnostics, which usually start by pressing a key like F12, F2, or Esc during startup.
Here’s what each tool checks, how to run it, and what to do with the results.
Built-in Windows 10 diagnostic tools
| Tool | Checks | How to open |
|---|---|---|
| Windows Memory Diagnostic | RAM errors | mdsched.exe |
| CHKDSK | File system and drive errors | chkdsk C: /scan (admin) |
| Drive health | SSD and hard drive status | Get-PhysicalDisk in PowerShell |
| Battery report | Laptop battery capacity and wear | powercfg /batteryreport |
| Reliability Monitor | Crashes and hardware errors over time | Search “reliability history” |
| DirectX Diagnostic Tool | Graphics and sound drivers | dxdiag |
| Performance Monitor report | Overall system health | perfmon /report |
How to test your RAM
- Save your work and close your apps.
- Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.
- Click Restart now and check for problems (recommended).
- Your PC restarts and runs the test, which takes several minutes. Windows starts normally when it’s done.
- Check the result in the notification after you sign in, or open Event Viewer > Windows Logs > System and look for MemoryDiagnostics-Results.
How to check your hard drive or SSD
- Right-click Start and choose Windows PowerShell (Admin).
- Run Get-PhysicalDisk and check that HealthStatus says Healthy.
- Run chkdsk C: /scan to look for file system errors without restarting. If errors are found, run chkdsk C: /f and restart when asked.
You can also go to Settings > System > Storage > Manage disks and volumes and open a drive’s Properties to see drive health on newer Windows 10 versions with NVMe drives.
How to check your laptop battery
- Open Command Prompt and run powercfg /batteryreport.
- Open the battery-report.html file it creates (the path appears in the window).
- Compare Design Capacity with Full Charge Capacity. A big gap means the battery has worn down.
How to run your PC maker’s diagnostics
Most PC makers include deeper hardware tests that check the CPU, memory, storage, fans, and more, often outside Windows:
- Restart and press the diagnostics key shown at startup, often F12, F2, F10, or Esc, then choose Diagnostics.
- Or install the maker’s support app from their official website, which usually includes a hardware scan.
Check your model’s support page for the exact key or tool.
What to do if a test finds problems
- Memory errors: Reseat or replace the RAM. Test one stick at a time to find the bad one.
- Drive warnings: Back up your files immediately, then replace the drive.
- Frequent crashes in Reliability Monitor: Update drivers and Windows, then run the maker’s full diagnostics.
- Under warranty: Contact the manufacturer with the test results and error codes.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Windows Memory Diagnostic take?
Usually 10 to 30 minutes, depending on how much RAM you have. Extended tests take longer.
Is there a hardware test that runs in Windows 10?
Most built-in tools run inside Windows, except the memory test. Maker support apps can also run scans without restarting.
Does this work in Windows 11?
Yes. All of these tools work the same way in Windows 11.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.