- Windows 11 integrates several ways to identify iGPU and dedicated cards.
- Free tools like GPU-Z and Open Hardware Monitor enlarges the detail.
- Differentiating between iGPU, dedicated, and eGPU prevents driver errors and diagnostics.
- Keep them drivers Updated to improve stability, FPS and compatibility.
If you're wondering how to check if your computer has an integrated graphics card (iGPU) in Windows 11, here's a step-by-step guide with the most reliable system tools and several free utilities. Many computers have an integrated iGPU in addition to a dedicated graphics card, and correctly distinguishing between them will help you choose the right drivers, diagnose errors, and plan for future upgrades.
We'll bring together everything you need in one place: Windows settings paths, quick commands , utilities like the DirectX Diagnostic Tool and System Information, as well as popular apps (GPU-Z, Open Hardware Monitor, and CPU-Z) that provide detailed information on each component. We'll also cover how to identify an eGPU, the meaning of terms like VRAM and TDP, and some notable graphics card models for reference.
What is an iGPU and how does it differ from a dedicated graphics card?
An iGPU is the graphics processing unit integrated into the processor itself, while a dedicated GPU is installed as a separate card. Although the terms GPU and graphics card are often used interchangeably, they are not exactly the same: the GPU is the chip that performs the graphics processing , and the card also includes other components such as video memory, a power supply, and display connections.
On a PC with both an integrated GPU and a dedicated graphics card, Windows may display two different entries in the system tools. Generally speaking, you'll see something like " Intel UHD/Iris " or "AMD Radeon Graphics" for the integrated graphics, and a brand-named NVIDIA/AMD model for the dedicated graphics. Knowing which is which will allow you to assign demanding tasks to the dedicated graphics card and conserve power with the integrated one.
Check if you have an iGPU with Windows 11 tools
Windows 11 offers several built-in utilities that clearly identify the display adapters present. Below are the most direct methods to confirm whether your computer includes an active integrated graphics processor (iGPU) alongside a dedicated graphics card , or if it only uses one of them.
DirectX Diagnostic Tool (dxdiag)
dxdiag centralizes video and audio data at the system level. It's a good starting point for seeing if Windows detects one or two graphics adapters and accurately obtaining their name and manufacturer. You'll find the graphics device reference and its drivers in a dedicated tab.
- Press Windows + R to open Run.
- Write dxDiag and confirm with Enter.
- In the window, go to the tab Screen (If your computer has more than one GPU, you'll see multiple Display tabs or an additional section.)
- In the block Device Check the name and manufacturer; if there is an integrated and dedicated iGPU, they will be listed separately.
Device administrator
It's a quick and easy way. If your PC has an integrated GPU and a dedicated GPU (or an electronic GPU), you'll see several entries under Display Adapters. There you can confirm the exact model and, with a double-click, check its status and driver details. This is a useful method for checking for detection and potential issues.
- Open search and type Device administrator.
- Unfolds Display adapters.
- Check if one or two entries appear - iGPUs are usually listed as Intel UHD/Iris or AMD Radeon Graphics, while the dedicated one will show your business name (e.g., NVIDIA GeForce, AMD Radeon RX).
System Information (msinfo32)
This console offers a complete overview of hardware and software. In the display section, you'll see a description of each adapter, its type, drivers, and memory. Additionally, on systems with dual graphics cards, it typically lists the processor's integrated graphics first , followed by the dedicated graphics card.
- Open search with Windows + S and type msinfo32 (o msinfo).
- In the left panel, navigate to Components > Screen.
- On the right side, consult Adapter description and other properties for each detected device.
Settings > Display > Advanced display
From the Settings app, you can also see which adapter is associated with each monitor. This is a quick way to identify the active adapter name and refresh rate, useful for knowing which GPU is displaying the desktop.
- Right click on the desktop and enter Screen settings.
- Accede to Advanced display.
- En Screen information Check the adapter and, if you have several, change the screen to see the associated device.
Task Manager > Performance > GPU
The Task Manager not only tells you the GPU model, but also shows the GPU's load and temperature in real time. If you see GPU 0 and GPU 1 (or more), it means the system is detecting multiple GPUs, which usually indicates a more dedicated iGPU.
- Open the Task Manager from the Start menu or with Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
- Go to the tab Unlimited and select GPU (if there are several, you can switch between them).
Other useful routes in Windows and manufacturer panels
In addition to the tools mentioned above, certain drivers add dedicated panels. If you use NVIDIA, the NVIDIA Control Panel offers a comprehensive system information section, covering everything from driver versions to available memory.
- Right-click on the desktop (in Windows 11, choose Show more options).
- Opens NVIDIA control panel.
- Press on System information to view details of the detected hardware and drivers.
Using the manufacturer's dashboards is especially helpful if you need to confirm graphics driver versions or check if the system is applying the correct profile for demanding games and 3D applications.
How to identify an eGPU and differentiate it from an iGPU
If you're using an external GPU (eGPU), Windows will list it separately from the integrated one. In Device Manager, you'll see the eGPU as a second entry under Display adapters; this confirms that the system distinguishes between iGPU, internal dedicated GPU, and eGPU when they are present.
- Opens Device administrator and enters Display adapters.
- Identify the name and model of the eGPU, which will appear separately from the iGPU of the processor.
Before investing in an eGPU for an older laptop, consider compatibility and potential bottlenecks. While it can be a straightforward way to improve graphics performance, it's important to check the available hardware and drivers to avoid surprises.
Third-party applications to know your GPU in detail
If you want to go beyond what the native tools offer, there are free utilities that provide advanced data. With them, you can view clocks, sensors, GPU BIOS , and much more. Below are the most notable options for thoroughly auditing your graphics hardware.
GPU-Z
It focuses on everything related to the GPU and clearly presents the adapter, chip, and monitor. It's compatible with NVIDIA, AMD, ATI, and Intel, includes validation, displays overclocking, base clocks, and 3D clocks when available, and can back up the card's BIOS. It requires no installation (an optional installer is available) and works with Windows XP through Windows 11.
- Support for GPUs from major manufacturers (NVIDIA, AMD/ATI and Intel).
- Adapter, GPU, and display information in one view.
- Load testing to verify the PCIe link and online validation.
- Portable version recommended for use without installation.
Open Hardware Monitor
Open-source project for monitoring CPU, GPU, and motherboard sensors. It allows you to view temperatures, frequencies, and fan speeds, and identifies your GPU model , whether integrated or dedicated. It is compatible with Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10/11 and also with Linux x86, without requiring installation.
It was last updated approximately a year ago, so it readily recognizes relatively modern hardware and provides reliable readings from key sensors.
CPU-Z (Graphics tab)
Although CPU-Z is famous for its CPU and memory information, it includes a Graphics tab with essential data about graphics adapters. After installing it from its official website and opening it, select the Graphics tab and use the Display Device Selection list to switch between cards if your system has multiple GPUs (integrated and dedicated), viewing the exact name and properties of each.
Quick glossary to understand GPU specifications
When you look up features in the tools or on the manufacturer's website, you'll often come across acronyms and metrics. Here are some definitions to help you understand the most common terminology used in charts.
- Clock speed: GPU core frequency (MHz/GHz). Boost clock is the typical maximum frequency under load.
- FPS: Frames per second. Measures fluidity in games and videos; higher numbers indicate greater smoothness.
- GDDR: High-speed video memory used by the GPU for textures and buffers. Newer versions typically offer higher bandwidth.
- Resolution: number of pixels on the screen. The higher the resolution, the more work the GPU has to do per frame.
- TDP: Thermal Design Power (TDP). Provides guidance on the heat generated by the GPU and its cooling needs.
- VRAM: Video random access memory. Essential for high-resolution textures and complex models.
Maintenance and Drivers: Why They Matter
Graphics stability and performance depend heavily on the state of your drivers. An outdated driver can cause crashes, FPS drops, or visual artifacts; therefore, it's advisable to keep them up to date , either through Windows Update , NVIDIA/AMD/Intel utilities, or automated update software.
Solutions exist that are designed to detect, repair, and update drivers with a single click. Tools like Avast Driver Updater can simplify the management of all system drivers and help minimize crashes, improve audio, and optimize browsing, beyond just graphics. If you prefer manual control, frequently check the websites of your GPU manufacturer and the manufacturer of your laptop or motherboard.
Passionate writer about the world of bytes and technology in general. I love sharing my knowledge through writing, and that's what I'll do on this blog, show you all the most interesting things about gadgets, software, hardware, tech trends, and more. My goal is to help you navigate the digital world in a simple and entertaining way.