Side by side
CPU-X vs hw-probe
Both stand on system information software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxSelf-hosted
Choose CPU-X if you need a free, open source system information tool for GNU/Linux or FreeBSD and value its multiple interfaces. Look elsewhere if you need an actively maintained project or reliable detection of newer CPU generations.
Visit CPU-X Free plan LinuxSelf-hosted
hw-probe combines hardware inventory, driver guidance, optional tests, and scheduled monitoring for Linux and BSD environments. Review its upload behavior and Snap limitations before choosing an installation method.
Visit hw-probeThe facts
| CPU-X | hw-probe | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Self-hosted | Linux, Self-hosted |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | github.com | github.com |
| On system information software | #8 of 34 | #12 of 34 |
CPU-X: what it does well
- Shows processor, motherboard, memory, system, graphics, and performance information.
- Offers GTK, NCurses, and command-line interfaces.
- Supports GNU/Linux and FreeBSD on x86 and ARM.
- Free and open source under GPL-3.0.
- Has package, AppImage, and Flathub distribution options.
What to know first
- The project is archived and does not accept new issues.
- The maintainer reported newer CPU generations were not properly detected.
- The daemon requires root privileges for access to special devices.
hw-probe: what it does well
- Provides permanent URLs for hardware snapshots.
- Suggests kernel versions or third-party drivers for missing drivers.
- Daily monitoring can email alerts about failures and changes.
- Optional tests cover graphics, drives, CPU, and RAM.
- Available in several package and deployment formats.
What to know first
- Snap runs in a sandbox with limited functionality.
- Drive SMART checks require disk block-device access.
- Privacy masking may fail in edge cases.
- No report export is listed.
Alternatives to CPU-X Alternatives to hw-probe The whole list