How to test a GPU before buying
The FullTestPC online GPU test helps you quickly evaluate GPU performance and stability right in the browser. This is useful when you are testing a computer or graphics card before buying, diagnosing artifacts, or want to confirm that the GPU holds load stably. The test runs in two modes. The first is classic graphics load via WebGL that measures average FPS, minimum values, short dips and frame rate stability. The second is WebGPU Compute — pure compute load without tying to the screen refresh rate, which lets you evaluate real GPU performance without the influence of vsync and browser limitations.
Browser test limitations are important for proper interpretation of results. The browser cannot access hardware sensors and does not show core temperature, memory frequencies, voltage or GPU power draw. WebGPU is only available in the latest Chrome and Edge — parts of the test may not work in Firefox and Safari. Results depend on the driver, operating system and background processes, so they cannot be directly compared with 3DMark, Unigine Superposition or FurMark. The test provides a relative stability evaluation rather than absolute numbers.
When the test is especially useful. When buying a used graphics card where the seller does not allow installing third-party software. When diagnosing artifacts, freezes and crashes in games. When checking stability after overclocking or repasting. Before selling — to confirm the card works without issues. If the WebGL tab shows stable FPS without sharp drops and WebGPU Compute demonstrates steady performance — that is a good sign. If you see freezes, sharp FPS drops or rendering errors — the graphics card needs detailed testing.
Common GPU problems the test can reveal. Artifacts and bad pixels in test frames often point to video memory or core issues. Sharp FPS drops after 30–60 seconds of load are a sign of overheating and throttling. Freezes and stuttering when switching between scenes may be driver-related or caused by a faulty PCIe interface. When physically inspecting the card, separately check fans and warranty seals, and in the OS make sure the card is detected without errors in Device Manager.
For full diagnostics, use specialised programs. 3DMark Time Spy and Fire Strike show gaming performance in different scenarios. Unigine Superposition and Heaven create sustained graphics load to evaluate stability. OCCT and FurMark create maximum heat to test the cooling system. To monitor temperatures, frequencies, voltage and power draw, use GPU-Z or MSI Afterburner. Additionally check video memory condition with OCCT Memory Test — this is especially important for used cards that may have been used for mining. Related checks: GPU checklist, PC checklist, laptop checklist.