Learn how to switch between integrated and dedicated GPUs for optimal performance & battery life in this brief Windows laptop guide.
On most Windows laptops, particularly gaming models with dual graphics, assigning graphics-intensive tasks to your dedicated GPU and light day-to-day tasks to the integrated GPU helps improve battery life and also increases performance within your games. Below are simple steps on how to manage your GPU usage on any Windows laptop with two GPUs.
Switch Between GPUs on Hybrid Laptops
There are several ways to do this, and the method depends on your laptop’s specifications, including the manufacturer and CPU type. GPU type, etc. Below are the techniques you can use to approach this.
1. Use Windows Graphics Settings
2. Nvidia Optimus Laptops
Note:This can also be done via the Nvidia app, but the process is significantly more complicated than using the control panel. If your GPU is older than an RTX 20 series, such as the GTX 1070 Max-Q, then the control panel method is the most sensible option.
3. AMD Switchable Graphics Laptops
On AMD laptops, if you are using a newer model, such as those released in 2020 or later, Switchable graphics can be found already integrated into the Windows Display settings, rather than a standalone Radeon menu.
If you find the option missing in Radeon settings, use the Windows Graphics method mentioned in the beginning. Please note that some apps may be“locked”and default to an integrated GPU for power savings, requiring no changes to be made. That said, here are the steps:
4. BIOS or Physical Switch (If Available)
On a few laptops, a BIOS option or a hardware toggle is provided, specifically to execute this:
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