PC requirements
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim System Requirements
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim needs at least Dual Core 2.0GHz or equivalent processor, 2GB System RAM and Direct X 9.0c compliant video card with 512 MB of RAM graphics. For the recommended experience you want Quad-core Intel or AMD CPU, 4GB System RAM and DirectX 9.0c compatible NVIDIA or AMD ATI video card with 1GB of RAM (Nvidia GeForce GTX 260 or higher; ATI Radeon 4890 or higher) graphics.
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 7/Vista/XP PC (32 or 64 bit) | — |
| Processor | Dual Core 2.0GHz or equivalent processor | Quad-core Intel or AMD CPU |
| Memory | 2GB System RAM | 4GB System RAM |
| Graphics | Direct X 9.0c compliant video card with 512 MB of RAM | DirectX 9.0c compatible NVIDIA or AMD ATI video card with 1GB of RAM (Nvidia GeForce GTX 260 or higher; ATI Radeon 4890 or higher) |
| Storage | 6GB free HDD Space | — |
Not sure how your PC compares? Use the
Can I Run It checker —
pick your CPU and GPU and it tells you which column you land in.
Playing on a handheld instead? Players report
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim as
Gold on
Steam Deck and Linux.
Other platforms
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is also available on these systems, where hardware is fixed and no per-PC check is needed:
Quick answers
Running The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim on PC
Can my PC run The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim?
Compare your CPU, GPU and RAM against the minimum column below. If your parts match or beat every minimum row, the game will launch — though you may need to lower settings. Matching the recommended column is what gets you 60fps at 1080p.
How much storage does The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim need?
6GB free HDD Space
What is the difference between minimum and recommended specs?
Minimum means the game starts and is playable, usually at 30fps on low settings at 1080p. Recommended is the developer's target for a smooth 60fps experience at high settings.