Lightning BenchHERE TO HELP
A little guidance. A clearer result.
Everything you need to get started with Lightning Bench.
Start with a standard test
Select This Device on the dashboard, review the maximum file size, total write budget and free-space requirement, then tap Start Standard Test. Keep the app in the foreground until the test completes.
Understand the measurements
Sequential read / write (MB/s) describes the speed of large transfers. 4K random read / write (IOPS) describes the number of small operations completed per second. Higher is faster within the same test method.
When comparing apps, check the unit as well as the workload. MB/s uses 1,000,000 bytes; MiB/s uses 1,048,576 bytes. A 4 KiB operation is 4,096 bytes. Public reference results can use different protocols and device conditions.
Frequently asked. Clearly answered.
Why do results vary?
Capacity, free space, temperature, operating-system version and background tasks all affect storage performance. Use the same settings on the same device, allow it to cool between runs and compare several tests. A reference average is not a guaranteed score.
Can I test an external SSD?
Yes, if it is a compatible local drive that iOS or iPadOS can access. Connect it, select External Drive and choose a writable folder. The app uses its own temporary files in that folder. Adapter, port, cable, power and filesystem limitations may affect results.
How much space will a test use?
The dashboard shows the maximum single-file size, total write budget and required free space before you start. These are different values: total writes can exceed the peak space occupied because temporary files are reused or cleaned up. Check the values for your selected mode.
How do I share a result?
Open History and use the share button on a completed test. Preview the image, then save it to Photos or open the system share sheet. For the full settings and measurements, export the complete HTML report.
Are my results uploaded?
No benchmark result is automatically submitted. Your history stays on your device. Refreshing public reference data makes a network request to the reference provider; sharing only happens when you choose it. See the privacy policy for details.
Does the video estimate guarantee recording support?
No. Estimates compare storage bandwidth with video data-rate requirements. They do not test codec processing, camera compatibility, sustained thermal performance or a recording app.
How do I delete a test?
Open History and delete the saved record. Exported reports and images are separate copies; remove them in the app or service where you saved them.
Which devices are supported?
Lightning Bench is built for iPhone and iPad running iOS or iPadOS 18 or later, with adaptive layouts for different sizes. iPhone Duo uses layouts for its outer and expanded displays. External-drive testing also requires a compatible connection and writable folder.
Need a hand?
When reporting a problem, include the device model, app version, system version, test mode and what happened. You may choose to include a report. Please do not send passwords or unrelated personal information.
Planned support address: support@lightning-bench.com. This mailbox is not active yet; please wait until launch before emailing.