How to Force Windows 10 to Use Dedicated GPU for Improved Performance

Boosting Windows 10 Performance with a Dedicated GPU

Getting the most out of Windows 10 requires having the right hardware configuration. For graphics-intensive tasks like gaming, video editing, and 3D modeling, having a dedicated GPU is essential for optimal performance. However, even with a dedicated NVIDIA or AMD graphics card, Windows doesn’t always tap into its full potential.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to configure Windows 10 to fully utilize your dedicated GPU for a smooth, lag-free experience.

Understanding Windows GPU Usage

Windows has become smarter about managing GPUs over the years. Modern Windows versions automatically switch between the integrated graphics on your CPU and your dedicated NVIDIA or AMD GPU, aiming to balance performance and battery life.

However, this automated switching can sometimes result in the dedicated GPU being underutilized. Windows may stick with the integrated graphics for non-3D applications, even though the dedicated GPU would provide a performance boost.

Do I need to use the device manager to update drivers?

You will now no longer need to use the Device Manager to search for device driver updates. Consequently, the Device Manager will soon no longer search the internet for available updates. You will be able to use it only if you have the driver update file on your computer.

How to fix device not getting recognized on Windows 10?

Thank you for the update on the issue. If issue still persists and device is not getting recognized then try to see if all of the device drivers and Windows updates updated. I would suggest you to refer the article mentioned below to update the drivers on Windows 10 computer. Do keep us updated. Ramesh Kumar.

The key is taking control of GPU selection yourself and assigning graphics-intensive apps to the dedicated GPU.

Forcing App Usage of the Dedicated GPU

Here are the steps to make Windows tap into your dedicated GPU’s power:

1. Open Settings > System > Display > Graphics Settings
2. Under "Graphics performance preference," click Browse.
3. Select the app you want to use the dedicated GPU.
4. Click Options, choose High Performance, and click Save.

Repeat steps 2-4 for other desired apps.

This forces the selected apps to use the dedicated GPU rather than integrated graphics. Be sure to choose apps that need the extra performance, like games and video editors.

You may need to restart the app to fully activate the dedicated GPU. Check your GPU usage in Task Manager to confirm it’s working.

Disabling Integrated Graphics in Device Manager

For maximum dedicate GPU utilization, you can disable the integrated graphics entirely in Device Manager:

1. Type "Device Manager" into the Windows search bar and open it.
2. Expand the "Display adapters" section.
3. Right-click the integrated graphics device and select "Disable."

This will force Windows to rely solely on your dedicated GPU. However, note that you’ll lose the battery life savings of switching to integrated graphics.

Why is my Windows 10 device not working?

The device is not performing or functioning correctly with the current driver. A new or beta version of a driver is causing stability issues. To update a specific driver, select the device in Device Manager and select Update Driver Software from the context menu. Windows 10 offers you two choices for updating the driver.

How do I update a driver in Windows 10?

Open Control Panel, and select Device Manager. Locate the category your device is in, right-click it and select Update driver. In the window that appears, select Search automatically for updated driver software. Updating a driver through Device Manager.

What is a device driver?

More commonly known as a driver, a device driver or hardware driver is a group of files that enable one or more hardware devices to communicate with the computer’s operating system. Without drivers, the computer could not send and receive data correctly to hardware devices like printers. What devices need drivers? What devices may not need drivers?

Adjusting GPU Settings in Control Panel

For further tuning, open the NVIDIA or AMD graphics control panel and adjust these settings:

• Set Preferred graphics processor to High-performance NVIDIA/AMD processor
• Adjust power management mode to Prefer maximum performance

Save your changes and restart your PC. Windows will now tap into the true capabilities of your dedicated GPU. Enjoy silky smooth graphics and lightning fast performance!

When to Use Integrated Graphics

While disabling integrated graphics can boost performance, it’s wise to avoid it when running on battery power. Switch back to integrated graphics via Device Manager and reset your NVIDIA/AMD control panel settings to Balanced when untethered. This will extend your laptop’s battery runtime.

Only force dedicated GPU usage when plugged in and for demanding applications that need the extra horsepower. Otherwise, let Windows automatically switch GPUs – it does a decent job in balanced mode.

Boost your gaming and creative work by optimizing Windows 10 GPU usage. With these tips, your high-end graphics card will finally stretch its legs and deliver fast, fluid visuals. Game on!

How do I troubleshoot Windows 10?

Press Windows key to get the Start menu. Type Troubleshooting in the search box right up corner and hit enter. Click on Troubleshooting tab. Click on view all option on the upper left corner. Select the Hardware and Device options from the list. Click Next to run the Hardware and Device Troubleshooter. I hope this helps you.

Does Windows 10 require a device driver?

When you install a hardware component on Windows 10, the operating system requires a device driver to be installed so that you can use it. After it’s configured, the device driver loads automatically and is available for Windows to use.

How do I install Windows 10 drivers?

If you’ve already downloaded the drivers to your PC, then install those by selecting “Browse My Computer for Drivers” and choosing your drivers. We’ll go with the former option. If Device Manager finds new drivers for your device, it’ll download and install them for you. You’ll then have to restart your Windows 10 PC.

Further Reading

For deep dives into GPU optimization for Windows 10, check out these guides:

• NVIDIA Control Panel Settings – Tom’s Hardware
• Tweak AMD Radeon Settings For Best Performance – Tech Advisor
• Benchmarking GPU Performance in Windows 10

References

1. https://pureinfotech.com/set-gpu-app-windows-10/
2. https://www.itechtics.com/use-specific-gpu/

Does Windows Update update drivers all the time?

It’s to be able to get updated drivers all the time from Windows Update if/when available. The link below from Microsoft is for Windows 7, but still applies. You can check Windows Update at any time to see if it found new drivers and icons for your hardware, especially if you recently installed a new device.

How do I force install a driver?

To force install a driver that does not come with an installation exe file – Browse my computer …, Let me pick …, select the correct hardware from the list if there are multiple entries shown, then it will install even if it older or less suitable. Was this reply helpful? Sorry this didn’t help.

What happens if a driver is not installed in Windows 10?

In Microsoft Windows you can see all devices installed and their associated drivers in the Device Manager. What happens if a driver is not installed? If the appropriate driver is not installed, the device may not function properly, if at all. With some devices, the device may work, but all of its features may not work.