Side by side
lshw vs SIW
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 Linux
Choose lshw if you need a free Linux hardware inventory tool with detailed system information and multiple report formats. It may be less suitable if you need a listed platform beyond Linux or want a graphical interface without building the optional GTK+ component.
Visit lshw Free plan Windows
SIW combines detailed system inventory with flexible report formats and command-line options. Review the trial restrictions and the update and support terms attached to each paid license before choosing an edition.
Visit SIWThe facts
| lshw | SIW | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux | Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | SIW Technician's Version — 1 Year Free Updates: $39.99 a year |
| Plans published | 1 | 6 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | ezix.org | gtopala.com |
| On system information software | #16 of 34 | #20 of 34 |
lshw: what it does well
- Reports memory, firmware, mainboard, CPU, cache and bus details.
- Exports information as plain text, XML or HTML.
- Covers multiple hardware interfaces and standards.
- Free to use under the GPL-2.0 license.
- An optional GTK+ interface can be built separately.
What to know first
- The listed platform is Linux.
- Support for some hardware areas depends on architecture or testing.
- Installation instructions call for compiling with make.
SIW: what it does well
- Reports support HTML, JSON, CSV, TXT, XML, and ODBC.
- Command-line controls include silent report creation.
- Technician's Version runs without installation.
- The maker states a 30-day money-back guarantee.
What to know first
- The trial expires after 14 days.
- Trial values may be replaced with ***TRIAL***.
- The 23.99 USD option has no updates or support.
- Customization costs $50 extra.