Side by side
MemTest86 vs MemTest86+
Both stand on pc overclocking software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1
MemTest86 provides bootable RAM diagnostics, with additional automation and deployment options in paid editions. Check the UEFI and processor requirements first, especially for Apple Silicon Macs.
Visit MemTest86 Free plan LinuxMacWindows
MemTest86+ offers a focused way to test system memory outside the operating system. Check Secure Boot and USB compatibility before choosing how to boot it.
Visit MemTest86+The facts
| MemTest86 | MemTest86+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | No | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Pro Support Extension: $76 a year | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 8 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | memtest86.com | memtest.org |
| On pc overclocking software | #2 of 31 | #10 of 31 |
MemTest86: what it does well
- Runs from USB without an installed operating system.
- Lists 14 memory test algorithms.
- Can generate customizable HTML reports.
- Binaries support Secure Boot and are Microsoft-signed.
- Free Edition supports up to 16 CPU cores.
What to know first
- Requires UEFI firmware and x86 or ARM64 hardware.
- Does not support Apple Silicon M-series Macs.
- Free Edition support is through the public forum.
- Pro Download costs $116, paid once.
MemTest86+: what it does well
- Free and open-source under GNU GPL version 2.
- Tests can access almost all computer memory.
- Boots from BIOS, USB, CD-ROM, or PXE.
- Includes moving inversions and Modulo-20 tests.
What to know first
- Secure Boot must be temporarily disabled.
- USB drivers do not support every device.
- Nightly builds are untested and unsupported.
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