Changing the default graphics card in Windows 11 is a simple task that can boost your computer’s performance, especially if you have multiple GPUs. To change the default graphics card, you’ll need to access the graphics settings, select the app you want to configure, and choose the preferred GPU. This process will help you optimize your system for better performance and energy efficiency.
How to Change Default Graphics Card Windows 11
In this section, we’ll walk through the steps to change which graphics card your Windows 11 system uses by default. This can be useful if you have both integrated and dedicated graphics and want to switch between them for different applications.
Step 1: Open Settings
To start, click on the Start menu and select “Settings.”
Opening the Settings window is the first step in changing your default graphics card. The Settings can be found by clicking on the Start menu, which is the Windows icon usually located in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
Step 2: Go to System
Next, in the Settings window, click on “System.”
The System section contains several options related to your computer’s hardware and performance. By navigating here, you’ll be closer to accessing the graphics settings.
Step 3: Select Display
Within the System settings, select “Display.”
The Display settings control everything related to your screen, including resolution, orientation, and multiple displays. This is where you’ll find the graphics settings you need.
Step 4: Scroll Down to Graphics Settings
Scroll down until you see “Graphics settings” and click on it.
The Graphics settings link is typically located near the bottom of the Display settings page. Clicking on it will take you to the page where you can set your preferred GPU.
Step 5: Choose an App to Set Preference
Click on “Browse” to choose the app for which you want to set the preferred GPU.
Here, you’ll select the specific application that you want to configure to use the desired graphics card. This is useful for gaming or resource-heavy applications.
Step 6: Set Your Preferred GPU
After selecting the app, click on “Options,” and then choose either “Power saving” or “High performance.”
The “Power saving” option usually selects the integrated graphics card, while “High performance” selects the dedicated GPU. Make sure to save your changes.
Once you’ve completed these steps, the selected app will use the chosen GPU by default. This can improve performance for high-demand applications or save energy for less demanding ones.
Tips for Changing Default Graphics Card Windows 11
- Check Compatibility: Ensure your app or game is compatible with the selected GPU to avoid performance issues.
- Update Drivers: Always keep your graphics drivers updated to get the best performance and compatibility.
- Monitor Performance: Use built-in tools like Task Manager to monitor the performance of your GPUs.
- Switch as Needed: Feel free to change the default GPU for different apps depending on your current needs.
- Energy Considerations: Use the integrated GPU for everyday tasks to save energy and the dedicated GPU for gaming or video editing.
Frequently Asked Questions about Changing Default Graphics Card Windows 11
How do I know which GPU my app is using?
You can check this in the Task Manager under the “Performance” tab.
Can I change the default GPU for all apps at once?
No, you need to set the preferred GPU for each app individually.
Will changing the default GPU improve my gaming performance?
Yes, switching to a dedicated GPU can significantly improve gaming performance.
What happens if I choose the wrong GPU?
You may experience lag or reduced performance, but you can always switch back.
Do I need to restart my computer after changing the GPU settings?
No, changes take effect immediately without needing a reboot.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to System.
- Select Display.
- Scroll Down to Graphics Settings.
- Choose an App to Set Preference.
- Set Your Preferred GPU.
Conclusion
Changing the default graphics card in Windows 11 can be a game changer for your computer’s performance. Whether you’re into gaming, video editing, or just want to ensure your system is running efficiently, knowing how to switch between integrated and dedicated GPUs is essential.
By following the steps outlined above, you can easily manage which GPU your applications use, enabling you to tailor your system’s performance to your specific needs. Remember to keep your drivers updated and monitor your system’s performance to get the most out of your hardware.
If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with others who might benefit from optimizing their Windows 11 settings. Happy computing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.