Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Should be installed in C:\Program Files\MAXON\Cinebench R23\Cinebench.exe
Warning
Benchmark runs will push CPU/GPU to max
During a run Cinebench may spawn threads for CPU tests and an OpenGL workload for the GPU test
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
You can close Cinebench after a run or prevent startup via Windows startup options
What is cinebench.exe?
Cinebench is a cross-platform benchmark from MAXON that measures your PC’s performance by rendering a demanding 3D scene. It includes a multi-threaded CPU test and an OpenGL GPU test. The results compare CPU and graphics performance across systems using standardized workloads.
CPU testing runs a complex scene across all cores to estimate multi-thread performance, while the OpenGL test stresses the GPU by rendering in real time. Scores reflect peak capability and are useful for comparing hardware configurations.
Quick Fact: Cinebench popularized portable, cross-platform CPU and OpenGL GPU benchmarking with a single, standardized score.
Types of Cinebench Components
- CPU Benchmark Engine: Runs multi-threaded and single-threaded rendering workloads to produce CPU scores
- OpenGL Renderer: GPU OpenGL workload that generates a separate GPU score
- UI/Launcher: User interface and test orchestration for launching benchmarks and viewing results
- Result Calculator: Aggregates CPU and GPU test results into final Cinebench score
- Data Loader: Loads test scenes and configuration data at startup
- Telemetry/Logging: Background logging of test performance and environmental data
Is Cinebench Safe?
Yes, Cinebench is safe when downloaded from the official MAXON site (maxon.net) or trusted distributors.
Is Cinebench a Virus or Malware?
The legitimate Cinebench is not a virus. Malware may disguise as Cinebench. Always verify the download source and signature.
How to Tell if Cinebench is Legitimate or Malware
- Source Download:: Download from the official MAXON site. Installer path example: C:\Users\Public\Downloads\Cinebench_R23_setup.exe
- Digital Signature:: Right-click C:\Program Files\MAXON\Cinebench R23\Cinebench.exe → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show 'MAXON Computer GmbH'.
- File Location:: Installed path should be C:\Program Files\MAXON\Cinebench R23\Cinebench.exe. Any Cinebench.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
- Version/Publisher Consistency:: Check the file version and certificate issuer. It should match Cinebench version 23.x and MAXON.
Red Flags: If Cinebench.exe is located in unusual folders (Temp, AppData) or lacks a valid digital signature, or if a file named Cinebench.exe appears with suspicious sizes, run antivirus and verify the installer.
Why Is Cinebench Running on My PC?
Cinebench runs when you launch the benchmark or when it is configured to run automatically, such as during system health checks or automated benchmarking scripts.
Reasons it's running:
- Benchmark Execution: Starting Cinebench triggers CPU and OpenGL tests to measure performance.
- OpenGL Rendering Load: GPU OpenGL workload is executed to compute the GPU score.
- Background Data Preparation: Cinebench loads test scenes and initializes measurement tools before scoring.
- Power and Performance Profiling: Windows power plan and CPU frequency scaling can affect results; set to High Performance for consistency.
- Automation or Multiple Runs: If used in automation, Cinebench may run sequential benchmarks or repeated tests.
Can I Disable or Remove Cinebench?
Yes, you can disable Cinebench from running at startup or uninstall it completely. Close the app after a run and use Windows settings to remove.
How to Stop Cinebench
- End Current Benchmark: In the Cinebench UI, click Stop or Cancel to halt the ongoing run.
- Close Application: Close the Cinebench window or use Alt+F4 to exit after a run.
- End Background Tasks: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and end any lingering Cinebench processes.
- Disable Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable Cinebench or related launcher.
- Uninstall: Windows Settings → Apps → Cinebench → Uninstall
How to Uninstall Cinebench
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Cinebench → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → Cinebench → Uninstall
- ✔ Reboot the system after removal to clear any residual processes
Common Problems: Benchmark Crashes or No Results
If Cinebench fails to run, crashes, or returns implausible scores, use these guidance points to diagnose and fix common issues.
Common Causes & Solutions
- Outdated GPU or CPU drivers: Update graphics drivers from the GPU vendor (NVIDIA/AMD) and ensure CPU microcode is current.
- Thermal throttling or inadequate cooling: Improve cooling, repaste if needed, ensure fans run properly and airflow is unobstructed.
- Power plan set to Power Saver: Set Windows power plan to High Performance while benchmarking.
- Background processes consuming resources: Close non-essential apps and background services before running Cinebench.
- Corrupted Cinebench installation: Repair or reinstall Cinebench from the official source.
- Incompatible OS or version: Ensure you are using a supported OS version and the latest Cinebench release (R23 or newer).
Quick Fixes:
1. Quick Fixes:
2. 1. Check for driver updates for GPU and CPU.
3. Run Cinebench as Administrator.
4. Close all other heavy applications before benchmarking.
5. Set Windows power plan to High Performance.
6. Reinstall Cinebench from the official site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cinebench measuring?
Cinebench measures CPU performance with multi- and single-thread workloads and GPU OpenGL rendering performance, providing standardized scores for comparison.
Is Cinebench safe to run?
Yes. Cinebench is a harmless stress test that pushes hardware limits; ensure you download from MAXON and monitor temperatures during tests.
Does Cinebench require internet access?
No. Cinebench runs locally and does not require an active internet connection for benchmarking.
What is a good Cinebench score?
Scores vary by CPU and GPU. Compare against similar hardware or reference results from MAXON’s published benchmarks for context.
Can Cinebench damage my computer?
Cinebench can push components to high load, which may cause heat. With proper cooling and monitoring, it does not inherently damage hardware.
Where can I download Cinebench?
From the official MAXON website or trusted distributors. Avoid third-party unverified sources to prevent tampered installers.