How to Download and Use the FFXIV Dawntrail Benchmark

See how your PC measures up to Dawntrail's new graphical update.

On Sunday, April 14, Square Enix released the benchmark tool for Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail, a software used for testing whether your hardware has the specs to run the upcoming expansion, as well as test out some of the new graphical options and character creation features. 

A companion to the Benchmark Trailer released the previous day, the benchmark has been FFXIV fans' first chance to see how the game will run with the new graphical upgrades. Here's how to get the benchmark yourself and experience your first peek into Dawntrail.

How to Download the FFXIV Dawntrail Benchmark

To download the FFXIV Dawntrail benchmark, simply head to the FFXIV Lodestone site and navigate to the official Dawntrail benchmark post. Download to your PC and extract the Zip file to your chosen location.

Using the FFXIV Dawntrail Benchmark

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Screenshot via Fanbyte/Square Enix

Extract and unpack the Dawntrail benchmark into its own folder, and then run the "ffxiv-dawntrail-bench" application. Once it’s loaded, you can immediately run the benchmark to test your hardware using the standard Warrior of Light (Meteor) model, or head to the character creator for some customization.

In the character creator you can import your saved character designs from FFXIV which should automatically be loaded as an option if you select “load appearance data.” You can also create and customize a new character, including the new female Hrothgar.

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Screenshot via Fanbyte/Square Enix

Once you’re happy with your character option, you can exit the character creator and head to the initial menu again. Either start up the benchmark immediately, or you can mess with the settings. Then, sit back and enjoy the sights of Dawntrail.

What’s a good score in FFXIV Dawntrail Benchmark?

Once you’ve completed the benchmark you’ll be awarded a score based on your computer’s performance. Below is a table of the results.

Performance ScoreMeaning
15,000+ Extremely High PerformanceEasily capable of running the game at its maximum settings.
11,000-14,999 Very High PerformanceEasily capable of running the game. Will run well at higher resolutions and at max settings.
8,000-10,999 High PerformanceEasily capable of running the game.
6,000-7,999 Fairly High PerformanceCan run the game, may need to run at a higher resolution.
4,000-5,999 Standard PerformanceCan run the game on default settings.
2,000-3,999 Slightly Low PerformanceChanges to settings recomended.
1,000-1,999 Low PerformanceChanges to settings required.
Under 1,000 Insufficient PerformanceCannot run the game.

Ideally, your PC should be running the game at at least a Standard Performance level, otherwise you might run into issues as you play the game.

About the Author

Michael Hassall

After giving up a "real" job in Marketing in 2019, Michael started working as esports, gaming, and entertainment journalist and hasn't looked back. He lives in the UK, but wishes he lived in Eorzea, having spent 5,000 hours there. When not dutifully grinding Tomestones and being designated furniture crafter for his FC, he enjoys travel to warm places, cold drinks, light reading, and heavy metal.