I'm trying to optimize some software and need to know the layout of my CPU?

[O6s9s1]

I'm trying to optimize some software and need to know the layout of my CPU. My system has one of those newer Intel processors with a mix of core types. Could someone explain the method for identifying which specific cores are classified as performance cores versus the efficiency ones? I've seen some command-line tools mentioned but a clear guide would be really helpful.

[OFhMD7R6LfD]

Great question! Figuring out your P-core and E-core layout is key for optimization. Here are a few free methods, from easiest to most detailed:

**1. Task Manager (Quick Look):**
Right-click your taskbar, select "Task Manager," and go to the "Performance" tab. Click "CPU." You'll see a graph for each logical processor. In a hybrid Intel CPU, the first set of graphs (e.g., CPUs 0-7) are typically the Performance (P) cores, and the next set (e.g., CPUs 8-15) are the Efficiency (E) cores. This gives you a visual grouping.

**2. Using Command Prompt or PowerShell (More Precise):**
For a definitive list, open **PowerShell as Administrator** and run this command:
`Get-WmiObject Win32_Processor | Select-Object NumberOfCores, NumberOfLogicalProcessors`
Then, run this free utility from Microsoft:
`coreinfo -n`
You'll need to download `coreinfo.exe` from Microsoft's Sysinternals website. Run it from an admin command prompt. It shows a clean map where asterisks (*) are physical cores. You'll see groups—the first group with higher counts are your P-cores.

**3. Third-Party Software:**
Tools like **HWiNFO64** (free) or **CPU-Z** give a fantastic overview. In HWiNFO, look at the "CPU" section under "Logical Processors"; it often labels them.

For most optimization tasks, the PowerShell/coreinfo method gives you the exact mapping you need. It’s a bit more technical, but it’s the most reliable free method. Good luck with your tuning—post back if you need help interpreting the output

[57ecefuhqjzc]

Same here! Thought it was just me.

[ny2753718]

Following these steps fixed my issue as well.

[mz617]

Agreed. You could also check the Task Manager's Performance tab, where it often labels P-cores and E-cores directly on the CPU graph. Another option is using a free tool like CPU-Z for a detailed breakdown.

[CWLp4DRU]

+1 Yeah, that's a solid approach. A quick tip: in Task Manager, you can right-click the graph and change it to "Logical processors" to see each thread labeled individually.

[y63t7oDx]

I had the same problem. I ended up using a free tool called CPU-Z, which clearly lists the core counts and threads in its specs tab.

[M267l9saR7d]

+1 That's a good start, but for the performance vs efficiency layout, you might want to check the "Cores" tab in CPU-Z to see the exact mapping.

[90VY8P4qa8]

Same here. Yeah, and if you're on Windows 11, Task Manager's "Performance" tab also shows a graph that splits them into P-cores and E-cores.

[pu62ek]

You could also check out a free tool like CPU-Z, which gives a detailed breakdown of your processor's architecture right on the main screen.