How to Check SSD Speed on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 25, 2025

Summary of Key Takeaways

  • You can easily check SSD speed on Windows 11 using built-in tools like Task Manager or third-party benchmarking software.

  • SSD speed is measured in read/write performance (MB/s or IOPS).

  • Free tools like CrystalDiskMark and ATTO Disk Benchmark provide detailed results.

  • Checking SSD speed helps you spot performance issues, confirm manufacturer claims, or decide on upgrades.

  • Always close background apps before testing for accurate results.

Introduction

Ever wondered if your SSD is performing as fast as it should? Whether you use your PC for gaming, video editing, or everyday work, SSD speed plays a huge role in overall performance.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to check SSD speed on Windows 11 step by step. From built-in methods to advanced benchmarking tools, you’ll learn everything you need to measure, analyze, and optimize your SSD’s performance.

Why Should You Check SSD Speed?

Your SSD is like the engine of your PC—if it’s not running at full power, the entire system slows down. Checking SSD speed helps you:

  • Verify performance claims from the manufacturer.

  • Diagnose slow boot times or app loading delays.

  • Compare speeds before upgrading to a new SSD.

  • Spot performance drops due to aging or overheating.

Understanding SSD Speed Metrics

When you check SSD speed, you’ll usually see these metrics:

Metric What It Means Example Value
Sequential Read How fast large files are read 3000 MB/s
Sequential Write How fast large files are written 2500 MB/s
Random Read (IOPS) Speed of reading small files 200,000 IOPS
Random Write (IOPS) Speed of writing small files 150,000 IOPS

👉 Sequential speed matters for copying movies or games. Random speed matters for booting Windows or opening apps.

Method 1: Check SSD Speed Using Task Manager

Windows 11 includes a built-in way to monitor SSD activity.

Steps:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

  2. Click on the Performance tab.

  3. Select your SSD drive from the left panel.

  4. Check Active time, Read speed, and Write speed in real-time.

⚠️ Note: Task Manager shows current performance, not maximum speed.

Method 2: Check SSD Speed Using Windows PowerShell

You can run a quick test using PowerShell commands.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + X → select Windows Terminal (Admin).

  2. Type the following command and press Enter:

winsat disk -drive c

  1. Wait for the test to complete.

  2. You’ll see results for sequential and random speeds.

👉 This method gives you raw benchmark results without extra software.

Method 3: Use CrystalDiskMark (Free Benchmarking Tool)

CrystalDiskMark is one of the most popular SSD benchmarking tools.

Steps:

  1. Download CrystalDiskMark from the official website.

  2. Install and launch the program.

  3. Select your SSD drive.

  4. Click All to run tests.

  5. Review results for sequential and random read/write speeds.

✅ Tip: Compare your results with the SSD manufacturer’s advertised speeds.

Method 4: Use ATTO Disk Benchmark

ATTO is another widely used benchmark tool.

Steps:

  1. Download ATTO Disk Benchmark.

  2. Install and open the program.

  3. Select your SSD drive.

  4. Click Start to begin testing.

  5. Review performance across different file sizes.

👉 This tool is great for detailed performance analysis.

Method 5: Use AS SSD Benchmark

AS SSD Benchmark is designed specifically for SSD testing.

Steps:

  1. Download and install AS SSD Benchmark.

  2. Open the program and select your SSD.

  3. Run the test.

  4. Check sequential, random, and access time results.

⚡ This tool also provides a score, making it easy to compare drives.

Method 6: Use Manufacturer Tools

Most SSD brands provide their own diagnostic software. Examples:

  • Samsung Magician (for Samsung SSDs)

  • Crucial Storage Executive (for Crucial drives)

  • WD Dashboard (for Western Digital drives)

These tools often provide:

  • Health status

  • Firmware updates

  • Benchmark testing

Tips for Accurate SSD Speed Testing

To make sure your results are reliable:

  • Close background apps before running tests.

  • Use a stable power connection (don’t test on battery).

  • Avoid testing right after startup (Windows updates may interfere).

  • Test multiple times and take an average.

Common Reasons for Slow SSD Speeds

If your SSD speed isn’t matching expectations, possible causes include:

  • SATA SSD installed instead of NVMe (lower max speed)

  • Outdated firmware or drivers

  • Too many background apps running

  • Thermal throttling (SSD overheating)

  • Low free space on the SSD

How to Improve SSD Performance

If tests reveal slower speeds, here are some quick fixes:

  • Enable AHCI mode in BIOS.

  • Update SSD firmware using manufacturer tools.

  • Turn on TRIM (ensures SSD cleans unused data).

  • Keep at least 10–15% free space.

  • Upgrade from SATA to NVMe SSD for maximum performance.

Comparing SSD Speeds: SATA vs NVMe

SSD Type Typical Speed (Read/Write) Best For
SATA SSD 500–600 MB/s Everyday use, budget builds
NVMe Gen 3 2,000–3,500 MB/s Gaming, productivity
NVMe Gen 4 5,000–7,000 MB/s High-end editing, heavy workloads

Conclusion

Checking your SSD speed on Windows 11 is quick and simple. Whether you use Task Manager, PowerShell, or advanced benchmarking tools like CrystalDiskMark, you can easily verify performance and troubleshoot issues.

Remember, SSD performance depends on drive type, system setup, and maintenance. If your SSD is underperforming, follow the optimization tips we covered to bring it back up to speed.

FAQs About Checking SSD Speed on Windows 11

1. What is a good SSD speed on Windows 11?

For SATA SSDs, around 500 MB/s is normal. For NVMe SSDs, anywhere between 2000–7000 MB/s is expected.

2. Can I check SSD speed without third-party software?

Yes, you can use Task Manager or run winsat disk in PowerShell.

3. Why is my SSD slower than advertised?

Background apps, outdated drivers, or using a SATA port instead of NVMe slot may cause slower speeds.

4. Does SSD health affect speed?

Yes. An aging SSD with many write cycles may show reduced performance. Manufacturer tools can check health.

5. Should I benchmark my SSD regularly?

It’s not necessary, but running a benchmark every 6–12 months helps ensure your drive is still performing well.

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