So, ever since the Diablo III beta system requirements were revealed by Blizzard there have been a lot of questions regarding if X system will be able to run the beta/the game, so here's a guide on how to check for yourself and answers to some common questions.
How to check if your system will run the beta:
Disclaimer: All hardware scores are based on user submitted benchmark tests and may not be completely accurate since different systems/overclocking etc can make an impact on the scores in the individual tests. Take this in consideration when comparing your hardware. Basics
Find out what hardware your computer has. If you are not sure you can use the Blizzard beta opt-in tool. It will show what CPU and graphics card you have, among other things.
RAM (System Memory), HD space, etc are self explanatory. Make sure you are above the minimum specified for "All Platforms".
GPU (Video Card/Graphics Card)
Go to http://www.videocardbenchmark.net/gpu_list.php and use the search form (or CTRL+F) to find your GPU in the list. Use the model name (Usually consisting of 3-5 numbers/letters). If you can't find it try different variations (e.g "GTX 460 SE", "GTX460 SE", "GTX 460SE") or look in the list manually.
Check the number in the first column. This is the card's G3D score based on user submitted benchmarks.
Compare your score to the score of the Beta System Requirements (see below for a score rundown):
Go to http://www.cpubenchmark.net/cpu_list.php and use the search form (or CTRL+F) to find your GPU in the list. Use the model name (Usually consisting of 3-5 numbers/letters). If you can't find it try different variations (e.g "Core2 Duo E8400", "Core 2 Duo E8400", "E8400") or look in the list manually.
Check the number in the first column. This is the CPU's PassMark score based on user submitted benchmarks.
Compare your score to the score of the Beta System Requirements (see below for a score rundown):
Minimum CPU Scores PC:
AMD Athlon 64 X2 4400+: 1194
Intel Pentium D 2.8 GHz: 742
Mac:
Intel Core 2 Duo: (No further specifications given at the moment, but any Mac with the Intel C2D CPU should work.)
Recommended CPU Scores PC:
AMD Athlon 64 X2 5600+ 2.8 GHz: 1538
Intel Core 2 Duo 2.4GHz: 1400-1600(Different models with same frequency, no further specifications given at the moment, but should be within the range.)
Mac:
Intel Core 2 Duo: (No further specifications given at the moment, but any Mac with the Intel C2D CPU should work.)
FAQ:
My score is below the minimum requirements! Won't I be able to play Diablo 3?
It depends. First and foremost these scores are based on tests uploaded by users through benchmarking software and not actual gameplay tests. Therefore the scores may not fully represent their actual performance, but they are a pin point.
Secondly, the requirements currently released are for BETA only and will very likely change (lowering the requirements) for the actual release client. The requirements are likely also "safe" so to speak that they may not actually be the absolute minimum to avoid complaints. A CPU/GPU with a lower score than the minimum may still be able to run the game.
Lastly, it is not only a fast CPU/GPU that is required. Older hardware may lack required features that are needed for the game and will thus never be able to run it.
Why is the scores different for AMD/Intel, AMD/Nvidia?
This may be because of various reasons, either the game is better optimized for one brand and thus requires less hardware power. It could also be because either does better in the benchmark tests. Either way don't take the exact scores too seriously, but rather as an average pointer.
What settings will my system be able to run smoothly?!
It's hard to say exactly atm before we can get our hands on some real tests. It also depends a lot on your setup, E.g. a screen with high resolution will require more power to run the same settings as a system with a smaller resolution. Likely Blizzard is tuning the settings so that recommended play smoothly with Medium settings and minimum at low. Check your scores relative to the requirements and you can more or less guess.
Update: You can check how your video card performs in Diablo 3 at the official page: http://us.blizzard.com/support/article.xml?locale=en_US&articleId=40659
There you can also see what cards are not unsupported. Note that the video card is not the only thing effecting your gaming performance so results may vary.
I'm going to build a new/upgrade my computer for Diablo 3! What should I buy?
Ask in the computer thread for help. We have many helpful people willing to help you out! Remember that Diablo III will not require any high-end machines so if you are buying a computer solely to play D3 then won't have to buy anything super-expensive.
--Insert additional questions here--
Feel free to suggest/ask more questions to add to the FAQ.
Why are the Mac requirements lower? You'd think they need to push the same number of pixels and perform the same calculations... I have a Nvidia GeForce GT 330M, but on a PC not a Mac.
I'm actually not 100% sure but I take a guess.
It may very well be that since there is such a huge amount of different Windows PC computer setups all with different specs and hardware they put the requirements a bit higher just to be safe. It's just not possible to optimize the game for such a wide array of hardware. For Mac on the other hand there is only so many options. All Macs use basically the same software so it's a lot easier to optimize the code to make it run well even with lower specs.
My wife and I are running IMac's....my video card is NVIDIA GeForce 9400...my wife has a ATI Radeon HD 2400 XT....
im assuming mine will be fine...but will my wife's be able to handle it?
the rest of the IMac specs are fine i think...
I've looked on the video support forums, and it has the Radeon HD 2400 XT as both unsupported and Low, so perhaps i am blind/stupid...any help is appreciated...
The rest should be fine. As you mentioned, you would definitely want to upgrade to a dedicated video card instead of the Integrated Intel chipset. You will also want to look at upgrading your power supply to handle an actual videocard. I wouldn't go too crazy on the videocard as your cpu will become a bottleneck, so a decent midrange card would be good. I'd recommend something like a Radeon HD6850 or if you prefer Nvidia, then maybe a GTX460. Either of those cards should handle D3 at max or near max settings. The GTX460 requires two 6pin power connectors so keep that in mind. As for a power supply, don't skimp on it, get something decent (at least a 500watt or better.) I've used this power supply on a few midrange pc builds and never had any problems: Antec BP550 Plus 550W.
I'm wondering on how the GPU score is calculated? All the tests together or just one of them?
From what I understood the rating is an average based on user submitted score in the PassMark Performance Test software (http://www.passmark.com/products/pt.htm). There are several CPU tests in the software which together gives a rating which would be the one used for the CPU scores.
This is also why I recommend taking the specific ratings with a grain of salt since benchmarks can be very different to live gaming/application performance. They can be used to get a good general idea but should not be the only decisive factor.
I got it now.
It's calculated from all the GPU tests. I was confused cuz the program had bugged and I was able to make 1300+ points with my crappy 9500GT, and was surprised cuz the avarage is 429! Now I've fixed it and managed to get ~405 (with a little overclock LoL) which is what I should've got the first time.
The tests are pretty inaccurate cuz I'm sure at least 30% of the people overclocked.
I also encourage people with PCs to make some overclock if they have an old graphic card like mine. If anyone wants, PM me and I will make a descent guide on how
Oh yeah ok, I also misread GPU for CPU so my post above was probably a bit confusing...
Overclocking is will indeed give you an extra boost and is quite easy to do. Just make sure the cooling can handle it and it's free reign :)!
Could i get some help with my system for diablo 3, will I be able to run it decently? is there anything that I need to upgrade?
Operating System:
Windows 2.6.1.7600
CPU Type:
AMD Phenom(tm) II X6 1055T Processor
CPU Speed:
2.83 GHz
System Memory:
8 GB
Video Card Model:
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460
Video Card Memory:
3.97 GB
Video Card Driver:
nvd3dum.dll
Desktop Resolution:
1280x1024
Hard Disk Size:
432.22 GB
Hard Disk Free Space:
272.45 GB (62%)
Download Speed:
550.98 kB/s (4.5 mbps)
Could i get some help with my system for diablo 3, will I be able to run it decently? is there anything that I need to upgrade?
Operating System:
Windows 2.6.1.7600
CPU Type:
AMD Phenom™ II X6 1055T Processor
CPU Speed:
2.83 GHz
System Memory:
8 GB
Video Card Model:
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460
Video Card Memory:
3.97 GB
Video Card Driver:
nvd3dum.dll
Desktop Resolution:
1280x1024
Hard Disk Size:
432.22 GB
Hard Disk Free Space:
272.45 GB (62%)
Download Speed:
550.98 kB/s (4.5 mbps)
Any help is appreciated
Your comp will run it maxed, don't worry and if it runs anything less than maxed just upgrade to a better GPU, but honestly a 460 should run it maxed at that resolution.
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This post was awesome. Very informative. Not just in terms of Diablo 3, but in general. I had no idea about the PassMark site and will be referencing it a lot in the future. Thanks!
Well sadly when I got into the Beta, My computer just could not handle it. I had no dedicated graphics card and shotty RAM.
I will say that with the Beta on low settings it was still "playable" but definately could not handle MultiPlayer and would lag in intense fights. It killed me twice before I logged off and bought a new rig.
My new computer is set to Arrive on March 1st, I tried to go above and Beyond the Specs just to make sure I had no issues for awhile.....
My New Rig....
AMD FX-4170 4.2Ghz Processor
ATI Radeon HD 6870 Ice Q Turbo 1Ghz GPU x2
16Gig Corsair RAM
120Gig Solid State Drive
2 TB Data Drive
Some various other bells and whistles, but the core of the Rig should be able to handle the game just fine.
Summary, The minimum specs are close, it is "playable" with less but not recommended at all if you want an enjoyable experience.
And my suggestion, with the Release creeping ever closer.... Now is the time to make those crucial upgrades if your system is lacking.
Good Luck all, And Happy Demon SLAYING!!
Operating System:
Windows 2.6.1.7601 (Service Pack 1) CPU Type:
Intel® Core™ i5-2500K CPU @ 3.30GHz CPU Speed:
3.62 GHz System Memory:
3.98 GB Video Card Model:
AMD Radeon HD 6900 Series Video Card Memory:
2.73 GB
Will I be able to play it at max details and resolution with no slowdowns?
Yes, it should have no problems :).
Your max resolution depends on your screen though.
****2nd Generation Intel Core i5-2450M Processor 2.50GHz with Turbo Boost Technology up to 3.1GHz, Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit), 14" HD Widescreen CineCrystal LCD Display, Intel HM65 Express Chipset, 4096MB DDR3 Memory, NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M with NVIDIA Optimus technology***
I accidently got quite a bit of liqour on my old laptop last night, was looking to upgrade as well. I dont have much cash to spare and this spec is just in my price range...will the VID CARD do ok? I dont care about max settings, med settings is fine, as long as I have decent FPS and NO LAG i'm a happy camper.
I have a question. I did see a Amd Radeon HD 6370M on the list, does anyone know if that will work for a the same number accept a D on the end? cause thats what I have -__- I sure as hell hope it does, I dont have money to go out and buy a new video card
macmodify.com tweeted the other day about discount code "Diablo3" for guys who need mac RAM upgrades. prices seem to be decent anyways. haven't seen it tweeted again though so dunno if it's running or not.
Operating System:
Windows 2.6.1.7601 (Service Pack 1) CPU Type:
Intel® Core™ i5-2500K CPU @ 3.30GHz CPU Speed:
3.62 GHz System Memory:
3.98 GB Video Card Model:
AMD Radeon HD 6900 Series Video Card Memory:
2.73 GB
Will I be able to play it at max details and resolution with no slowdowns?
I would say on high settings, not on ultra or another higher tier setting.
I have a question. I did see a Amd Radeon HD 6370M on the list, does anyone know if that will work for a the same number accept a D on the end? cause thats what I have -__- I sure as hell hope it does, I dont have money to go out and buy a new video card
Depending on your other pc specs, you'll be able to play on medium to high with that gpu
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Basics
GPU (Video Card/Graphics Card)
CPU (Processor)
It depends. First and foremost these scores are based on tests uploaded by users through benchmarking software and not actual gameplay tests. Therefore the scores may not fully represent their actual performance, but they are a pin point.
Secondly, the requirements currently released are for BETA only and will very likely change (lowering the requirements) for the actual release client. The requirements are likely also "safe" so to speak that they may not actually be the absolute minimum to avoid complaints. A CPU/GPU with a lower score than the minimum may still be able to run the game.
Lastly, it is not only a fast CPU/GPU that is required. Older hardware may lack required features that are needed for the game and will thus never be able to run it.
Why is the scores different for AMD/Intel, AMD/Nvidia?
This may be because of various reasons, either the game is better optimized for one brand and thus requires less hardware power. It could also be because either does better in the benchmark tests. Either way don't take the exact scores too seriously, but rather as an average pointer.
What settings will my system be able to run smoothly?!
It's hard to say exactly atm before we can get our hands on some real tests. It also depends a lot on your setup, E.g. a screen with high resolution will require more power to run the same settings as a system with a smaller resolution. Likely Blizzard is tuning the settings so that recommended play smoothly with Medium settings and minimum at low. Check your scores relative to the requirements and you can more or less guess.
Update: You can check how your video card performs in Diablo 3 at the official page: http://us.blizzard.com/support/article.xml?locale=en_US&articleId=40659
There you can also see what cards are not unsupported. Note that the video card is not the only thing effecting your gaming performance so results may vary.
I'm going to build a new/upgrade my computer for Diablo 3! What should I buy?
Ask in the computer thread for help. We have many helpful people willing to help you out! Remember that Diablo III will not require any high-end machines so if you are buying a computer solely to play D3 then won't have to buy anything super-expensive.
--Insert additional questions here--
Feel free to suggest/ask more questions to add to the FAQ.
And thank you FingolfinGR
I'm actually not 100% sure but I take a guess.
It may very well be that since there is such a huge amount of different Windows PC computer setups all with different specs and hardware they put the requirements a bit higher just to be safe. It's just not possible to optimize the game for such a wide array of hardware. For Mac on the other hand there is only so many options. All Macs use basically the same software so it's a lot easier to optimize the code to make it run well even with lower specs.
According to http://us.blizzard.com/support/article.xml?locale=en_US&articleId=40659 it will run on low so that's what I'd but my bets on!
Check out my Youtube channel: RetroGameClips
From what I understood the rating is an average based on user submitted score in the PassMark Performance Test software (http://www.passmark.com/products/pt.htm). There are several CPU tests in the software which together gives a rating which would be the one used for the CPU scores.
This is also why I recommend taking the specific ratings with a grain of salt since benchmarks can be very different to live gaming/application performance. They can be used to get a good general idea but should not be the only decisive factor.
Oh yeah ok, I also misread GPU for CPU so my post above was probably a bit confusing...
Overclocking is will indeed give you an extra boost and is quite easy to do. Just make sure the cooling can handle it and it's free reign :)!
Operating System:
Windows 2.6.1.7600
CPU Type:
AMD Phenom(tm) II X6 1055T Processor
CPU Speed:
2.83 GHz
System Memory:
8 GB
Video Card Model:
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460
Video Card Memory:
3.97 GB
Video Card Driver:
nvd3dum.dll
Desktop Resolution:
1280x1024
Hard Disk Size:
432.22 GB
Hard Disk Free Space:
272.45 GB (62%)
Download Speed:
550.98 kB/s (4.5 mbps)
Any help is appreciated
At that resolution you can run most games "decently", you'll be fine for Diablo III. I'd expect 60fps most of the time.
I will say that with the Beta on low settings it was still "playable" but definately could not handle MultiPlayer and would lag in intense fights. It killed me twice before I logged off and bought a new rig.
My new computer is set to Arrive on March 1st, I tried to go above and Beyond the Specs just to make sure I had no issues for awhile.....
My New Rig....
AMD FX-4170 4.2Ghz Processor
ATI Radeon HD 6870 Ice Q Turbo 1Ghz GPU x2
16Gig Corsair RAM
120Gig Solid State Drive
2 TB Data Drive
Some various other bells and whistles, but the core of the Rig should be able to handle the game just fine.
Summary, The minimum specs are close, it is "playable" with less but not recommended at all if you want an enjoyable experience.
And my suggestion, with the Release creeping ever closer.... Now is the time to make those crucial upgrades if your system is lacking.
Good Luck all, And Happy Demon SLAYING!!
Yes, it should have no problems :).
Your max resolution depends on your screen though.
****2nd Generation Intel Core i5-2450M Processor 2.50GHz with Turbo Boost Technology up to 3.1GHz, Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit), 14" HD Widescreen CineCrystal LCD Display, Intel HM65 Express Chipset, 4096MB DDR3 Memory, NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M with NVIDIA Optimus technology***
I accidently got quite a bit of liqour on my old laptop last night, was looking to upgrade as well. I dont have much cash to spare and this spec is just in my price range...will the VID CARD do ok? I dont care about max settings, med settings is fine, as long as I have decent FPS and NO LAG i'm a happy camper.
You'll be able to play on medium to high, high might lag a little I predict
I would say on high settings, not on ultra or another higher tier setting.
Depending on your other pc specs, you'll be able to play on medium to high with that gpu