How to Force Games and Applications to Use Your Dedicated GPU

Modern computers often come equipped with two graphics processing units (GPUs): an integrated GPU (iGPU) built into the CPU and a dedicated or discrete GPU (dGPU) that’s a separate component. While the iGPU is sufficient for basic tasks like browsing the web and word processing, the dGPU offers significantly superior performance for demanding applications like video games, video editing software, and CAD programs. Knowing how to force applications to utilize your dGPU instead of the iGPU is essential for maximizing performance and achieving the best possible experience.

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Understanding Integrated vs. Dedicated GPUs

Before diving into the “how-to,” it’s crucial to understand the fundamental difference between these two types of GPUs.

Integrated Graphics (iGPU)

Integrated graphics are built directly into the CPU. They share system memory (RAM) with the CPU and are generally less powerful than dedicated GPUs. iGPUs are energy-efficient and contribute to a lower overall system cost. They are suitable for everyday tasks and light gaming. Examples include Intel UHD Graphics and AMD Radeon Graphics (integrated versions).

Dedicated Graphics (dGPU)

Dedicated GPUs are separate components with their own dedicated memory (VRAM). They offer significantly higher performance than iGPUs, making them ideal for demanding applications. dGPUs consume more power and generate more heat than iGPUs, requiring dedicated cooling solutions. Examples include NVIDIA GeForce RTX and AMD Radeon RX series.

The main advantages of a dGPU are increased frame rates in games, faster rendering times in video editing software, and improved performance in graphically intensive applications. For users who frequently engage in these activities, ensuring their system utilizes the dGPU is paramount.

Why Your System Might Be Using the Integrated GPU

Sometimes, your computer might default to using the iGPU even when a more powerful dGPU is present. Several factors can contribute to this:

Driver Issues: Outdated, corrupted, or incompatible drivers can prevent the system from properly recognizing and utilizing the dGPU.
Power Saving Settings: Windows power saving settings can sometimes prioritize the iGPU to conserve battery life, especially on laptops.
Application Settings: Some applications may have their own settings that allow you to choose which GPU to use. If these settings are configured incorrectly, the application might be using the iGPU.
BIOS Settings: In rare cases, the BIOS settings might be configured to prioritize the iGPU.
DirectX/OpenGL Issues: Problems with DirectX or OpenGL can sometimes cause applications to default to the iGPU.

Identifying the cause of the problem is the first step towards resolving it. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to force your system to utilize the dGPU.

Methods to Force Applications to Use the Dedicated GPU

Here are the most common and effective methods to ensure your games and applications are using your dedicated GPU:

Method 1: NVIDIA Control Panel (for NVIDIA GPUs)

If you have an NVIDIA graphics card, the NVIDIA Control Panel provides a straightforward way to manage GPU settings.

Accessing the NVIDIA Control Panel: Right-click on your desktop and select “NVIDIA Control Panel” from the context menu. If you don’t see this option, you might need to install or update your NVIDIA drivers.
Managing 3D Settings: In the NVIDIA Control Panel, navigate to “3D Settings” and then “Manage 3D settings.”
Global Settings vs. Program Settings: You have two options:
- Global Settings: This sets the preferred GPU for all applications. Under the “Preferred graphics processor” dropdown menu, select “High-performance NVIDIA processor.” This will force all applications to use the dGPU by default.
- Program Settings: This allows you to specify the preferred GPU for individual applications. Click the “Program Settings” tab. Use the dropdown menu to select the application you want to configure. If the application isn’t listed, click “Add” and browse to the application’s executable file (.exe). Once the application is selected, under the “Select the preferred graphics processor for this program” dropdown menu, choose “High-performance NVIDIA processor.”
Applying Changes: After making your selections, click “Apply” to save the changes.

Using the NVIDIA Control Panel offers granular control, allowing you to optimize performance for specific applications while maintaining battery life for less demanding tasks when using global settings.

Method 2: AMD Radeon Settings (for AMD GPUs)

Similar to NVIDIA, AMD provides its own control panel for managing GPU settings.

Accessing AMD Radeon Settings: Right-click on your desktop and select “AMD Radeon Settings” (or “AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition,” depending on your driver version).
Navigating to Graphics Settings: In the AMD Radeon Settings, click on the “Gaming” tab, and then select “Graphics.”
Adding Applications: If the game or application you want to configure isn’t listed, click the three dots in the top-right corner and select “Add a Game.” Browse to the application’s executable file (.exe) and add it to the list.
Setting the Graphics Profile: Once the application is added, click on its icon. You’ll see various graphics settings. Look for the “Graphics Profile” option. Select “High” or “Gaming” to prioritize performance. You might also see an option for “GPU Workload.” Ensure this is set to “Graphics” instead of “Compute.”
Alternative Method (if “Graphics Profile” isn’t available): Some older AMD drivers might not have the “Graphics Profile” option. In this case, look for options like “Anti-Aliasing Mode,” “Anisotropic Filtering Mode,” and “Texture Filtering Quality.” Setting these to lower values can sometimes indirectly force the system to use the dGPU for better performance.
Applying Changes: Changes are usually applied automatically, but it’s a good idea to restart the application to ensure the new settings are in effect.

AMD Radeon Settings provides a user-friendly interface for optimizing graphics performance and ensuring applications utilize the dedicated GPU.

Method 3: Windows Graphics Settings

Windows 10 and 11 have a built-in graphics settings page that allows you to specify which GPU an application should use. This method is often the simplest and most direct way to force a specific GPU.

Accessing Graphics Settings:
- Windows 10: Go to Settings > System > Display > Graphics settings.
- Windows 11: Go to Settings > System > Display > Graphics.
Choosing an App to Set Preference: Click the “Browse” button to locate the executable file (.exe) of the game or application you want to configure. Once you’ve selected the file, click “Add.”
Setting GPU Preference: The application will now appear in the list. Click on the application’s name, and then click “Options.”
Selecting the Preferred GPU: A small window will pop up with three options:
- “System default” (usually uses the iGPU for power saving)
- “Power saving GPU” (typically the iGPU)
- “High performance GPU” (the dGPU)
  Select “High performance GPU” and click “Save.”
Restart the Application: Close and restart the application for the changes to take effect.

The Windows Graphics Settings offer a simple and effective way to control GPU usage on a per-application basis. This method is particularly useful because it bypasses the need to navigate through manufacturer-specific control panels.

Method 4: BIOS Settings (Less Common)

In some rare cases, the BIOS settings might be configured to prioritize the iGPU. This is more common on desktop systems. Modifying BIOS settings requires caution, so only proceed if you are comfortable with the process.

Accessing the BIOS: Restart your computer and press the appropriate key to enter the BIOS setup. This key varies depending on your motherboard manufacturer, but it’s often Del, F2, F12, or Esc. The boot screen will usually display the correct key.
Finding Graphics Settings: Navigate through the BIOS menus to find the graphics settings. This section might be labeled “Graphics Configuration,” “Display Settings,” or something similar. The location of these settings varies depending on the BIOS version.
Setting the Primary Display Adapter: Look for an option to select the primary display adapter. If it’s set to “Integrated Graphics” or “iGPU,” change it to “Discrete Graphics,” “dGPU,” or the name of your dedicated graphics card.
Saving Changes and Exiting: Save the changes and exit the BIOS setup. Your computer will restart.

Important Considerations:

Caution: Incorrect BIOS settings can prevent your computer from booting properly. Make sure you understand the settings you are changing.
Consult Your Motherboard Manual: Refer to your motherboard manual for specific instructions on accessing and modifying BIOS settings.
Limited Applicability: This method is less commonly needed, as most systems automatically detect and utilize the dGPU when available.

Method 5: Driver Updates and Reinstallation

Outdated, corrupted, or incompatible drivers can cause problems with GPU detection and usage. Ensuring you have the latest drivers installed is crucial.

Downloading the Latest Drivers:
- NVIDIA: Visit the NVIDIA website and download the latest drivers for your graphics card. You can also use the NVIDIA GeForce Experience software to automatically download and install updates.
- AMD: Visit the AMD website and download the latest drivers for your graphics card. You can also use the AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition to automatically download and install updates.
Performing a Clean Installation: When installing the new drivers, it’s recommended to perform a clean installation. This removes all traces of the old drivers and ensures a fresh installation. Both NVIDIA and AMD driver installers offer a “Clean Installation” option.
Using Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU): For a more thorough driver removal, you can use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU). This utility completely removes all graphics drivers from your system. Download DDU from a reputable source and run it in Safe Mode for the best results. After using DDU, install the latest drivers.

Why Driver Updates Matter:

Performance Improvements: New drivers often include performance optimizations for the latest games and applications.
Bug Fixes: Driver updates can fix bugs and compatibility issues that may be causing problems with GPU usage.
Security Updates: Drivers can also include security updates to protect your system from vulnerabilities.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even after following these methods, you might encounter issues where applications still use the iGPU. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

Check Task Manager: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and go to the “Performance” tab. Monitor the GPU usage while running the application. If the dGPU usage is minimal or zero, the application is likely using the iGPU.
Monitor GPU Temperature: Use a hardware monitoring tool like MSI Afterburner or HWMonitor to check the temperature of both the iGPU and dGPU while running the application. If the dGPU temperature remains low, it’s likely not being used.
Conflicting Software: Some software, such as certain overlay programs or outdated system utilities, can interfere with GPU switching. Try disabling these programs to see if it resolves the issue.
Check Power Plan: Make sure your power plan is set to “High Performance.” This prevents Windows from throttling the dGPU to save power.
Laptop Specifics: On laptops, ensure the laptop is plugged into a power source. Some laptops will limit dGPU usage when running on battery to conserve power. Also check for any power saving settings in your laptop manufacturer’s software (e.g., Lenovo Vantage, Dell Power Manager).
Application Compatibility: Some older applications might not be fully compatible with modern GPUs. Try running the application in compatibility mode (right-click on the executable file, go to “Properties,” and then the “Compatibility” tab).
Reinstall the Application: In some cases, reinstalling the application can resolve issues with GPU usage.

Ensuring your dedicated GPU is utilized properly requires understanding the interplay between hardware, software, and system settings. By systematically applying the methods outlined above and troubleshooting any issues that arise, you can unlock the full potential of your system and enjoy a significantly improved experience with demanding applications. Remember to keep your drivers updated and monitor your GPU usage to ensure optimal performance.

Why is my game/application using the integrated GPU instead of my dedicated GPU?

Your game or application might be defaulting to your integrated GPU due to power-saving features built into your operating system or graphics drivers. These features are designed to conserve battery life on laptops and reduce overall power consumption on desktops. The system might initially assume the integrated GPU is sufficient for the task at hand, especially if the application’s resource demands appear low at first glance.

Another potential reason is that the application may not be explicitly configured to use the dedicated GPU within your system’s graphics settings. Many modern operating systems and driver software allow you to specify which GPU should be used for each individual application. If the application isn’t assigned to the dedicated GPU, it will automatically fall back to the integrated option.

How can I force a game to use my dedicated GPU on Windows?

On Windows, you can force an application to use your dedicated GPU through the Graphics Settings. Open Settings, search for “Graphics settings,” and click on the result. In the Graphics Settings, you’ll be able to browse for and add the executable file of the game or application you want to configure.

Once added, click on the application and select “Options.” A pop-up window will appear, offering you a choice between “System default,” “Power saving (integrated GPU),” and “High performance (dedicated GPU).” Choose “High performance” to ensure the application uses your dedicated GPU. Repeat this process for each game or application as needed.

What are the steps to force a game to use my dedicated GPU on macOS?

Unfortunately, macOS generally manages GPU selection automatically and offers limited manual control compared to Windows. However, you can influence GPU usage by closing other resource-intensive applications to reduce the load on the integrated GPU and encouraging the system to utilize the dedicated GPU.

You can also try forcing the dedicated GPU by enabling “Prefer External GPU” in the application’s “Get Info” window if the application supports it. Right-click the application icon in Finder, select “Get Info,” and look for the “Prefer External GPU” checkbox. This option isn’t available for all applications, but it’s worth checking.

How can I verify if the game/application is actually using my dedicated GPU?

You can monitor GPU usage in real-time using the Task Manager on Windows or Activity Monitor on macOS. Open the Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) on Windows and go to the “Performance” tab. Select your dedicated GPU to view its utilization percentage. Launch the game/application and observe if the utilization increases, indicating the dedicated GPU is in use.

On macOS, open Activity Monitor (Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor) and click the “GPU” tab. Launch the game/application and check which GPU is being used and its load. If the dedicated GPU shows significant activity during gameplay or application use, it confirms that it is indeed being utilized.

Will forcing the dedicated GPU always improve performance?

While forcing the dedicated GPU generally improves performance, especially in graphically demanding applications, there might be instances where the difference is minimal or even negative. This can occur if the application is CPU-bound, meaning its performance is limited by the processor rather than the graphics card. In such cases, switching to the dedicated GPU might consume more power without a noticeable performance gain.

Furthermore, some applications are designed to run efficiently on integrated GPUs, especially if they are not graphically intensive. Forcing the dedicated GPU in these situations might lead to increased power consumption and heat generation without significant performance improvements. It’s best to experiment and monitor performance to determine if the dedicated GPU truly provides a benefit.

Are there any potential drawbacks to always forcing the dedicated GPU?

One of the main drawbacks is increased power consumption, especially on laptops. Using the dedicated GPU constantly drains the battery faster compared to relying on the integrated GPU for less demanding tasks. This can significantly reduce battery life while on the go.

Another potential drawback is increased heat generation. Dedicated GPUs tend to produce more heat than integrated GPUs, which can lead to higher fan speeds and potentially louder operation. In the long run, excessive heat can also contribute to component wear and tear.

What if I still have problems after forcing the dedicated GPU?

If you’re still experiencing issues, ensure your graphics drivers are up to date. Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause performance problems and prevent the dedicated GPU from functioning correctly. Visit the manufacturer’s website (Nvidia, AMD, or Intel) to download and install the latest drivers.

Another possible solution is to check if the game or application has specific settings related to GPU selection within its own options menu. Some applications allow you to manually choose the GPU to use directly within the game or application settings, overriding the system’s default configuration. Lastly, ensure that your power plan settings are set to “High Performance” to provide maximum power to the dedicated GPU.