What are the pros and cons of using built-in hardware diagnostics vs. external software tools?

1 Built-in hardware diagnostics

Built-in hardware diagnostics are tests that are integrated into your device's firmware or operating system, and can be accessed by pressing a certain key or combination of keys during the boot process, or by navigating to a settings menu. For example, some Windows laptops have a built-in diagnostic tool that can be launched by pressing F12 during startup, while some Macs have a built-in diagnostic tool that can be started by holding the D key while booting. These diagnostics offer some advantages, such as being easy to access and use, as no additional software is needed. They are also compatible with your device's hardware and software, as they are designed by the manufacturer or vendor. Furthermore, they are reliable and secure, as they are not affected by malware or other software issues. On the flip side, built-in hardware diagnostics may not be comprehensive or updated enough to cover all the hardware components or detect all the possible issues. Additionally, they may not be customizable or flexible enough to enable you to choose which tests to run or how long to run them. Furthermore, they may not be informative or helpful enough to provide clear feedback or troubleshooting steps.

2 External software tools

External software tools are tests that are provided by third-party developers or vendors and are typically downloaded and installed on your device, or run from a bootable media such as a CD, DVD, or USB drive. Examples of popular external software tools for hardware diagnostics include MemTest86, CrystalDiskInfo, HWiNFO, and SpeedFan. While these tools have advantages such as being comprehensive and updated, customizable and flexible, and informative and helpful, they also have drawbacks. These drawbacks include being difficult to access and use, potentially not being compatible with your device's hardware and software, and not being reliable or secure.

3 How to choose the best type of hardware diagnostics

When considering which type of hardware diagnostics is best for your situation, several factors should be taken into account, such as the type and severity of the hardware issue, the availability and accessibility of built-in or external diagnostic tools, your level of expertise with the tools, and the time and resources you have to run tests. Generally speaking, if you have a minor or common hardware issue that can be easily resolved with a reliable built-in tool, then it is likely best to use it. Otherwise, if you have a major or complex issue that requires more thorough testing and analysis or your device does not have a built-in tool, then external software tools may be more suitable. Additionally, if you are familiar with using external tools or booting from a different media, then this will also likely be the better option.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?