- Windows allows you to choose which GPU each specific application uses from the system settings.
- The control panels of NVIDIA and AMD offer advanced options and additional customization, so it is recommended to synchronize both settings.
- El Task Manager helps to check in real time which GPU each program is using, thus optimizing performance and energy consumption.
Do you have a computer with more than one graphics card and have noticed that sometimes the powerful GPU isn't used just when you need it? Don't panic, because Microsoft has been making it much easier to manage graphics processors in Windows. You no longer have to rely solely on the classic NVIDIA, AMD, or Windows 10 settings control panel. BIOS: Today there is a way directly from Windows Settings to decide which GPU each application uses, getting the most out of your hardware as you need.
In this article you will find a very easy, extensive and practical guide, which condenses all the relevant information from the best sources on how to change the priority of GPU use in specific programs, both in Windows 10 and in Windows 11You'll see the pros, cons, and solutions for specific cases, as well as a review of how to intervene from the manufacturer's control panels, the BIOS, or even the Task Manager. If you're looking to make your games, video editors, or apps graphics always use the best GPU, here you have everything you need.
Why change an application's preferred GPU?
Muchos portable and equipment websites They have two types of graphics cards: one integrated (such as those of Intel), which consumes little energy and handles basic tasks, and another dedicated (such as NVIDIA or AMD Radeon), designed to get the most out of gaming, video editing, 3D, or any heavy-duty task. The operating system usually automatically chooses which one to use, but not always right, and sometimes, to save battery, it uses the least powerful one just when you need the best.
Changing this can bring you two main advantages: Increase performance in those applications that really require it (such as games or professional software), or prioritize maximum autonomy and low consumption in light apps or when the laptop is running on battery. This way, you can find the perfect balance between power and battery life.
How to choose the GPU from Windows Settings
Since the most recent versions of Windows 10 and especially in Windows 11, Microsoft has integrated a native option to choose which GPU each program should use, without relying on proprietary NVIDIA and AMD panels or having to dig through the BIOS. Here's how to do it step by step:
- Open Windows Settings (Windows + I).
- Accede to System > Display. Scroll down until you find the Graphics Settings link.
- You can add traditional desktop programs (Classic application) searching for the executable, or Microsoft Store apps from the list of universal apps.
- After selecting or adding an app, it will appear in the list. Tap on it and click Options.
- Choose now between 'Energy saving' (usually selects the integrated GPU), 'High performance' (associated with the dedicated GPU) or simply Leave the system default value.
- Save your changes and close the window. The next time you open that application, it will use the GPU you specified.
This feature is very useful if you notice that your demanding games, video programs or apps they would pull the less powerful GPU. It also allows set the use of the integrated for those applications that do not need as much power (such as browsers or office suites) and so on save battery.
Advanced Settings: NVIDIA and AMD Control Panel
Before the new native Windows options, the method principal to choose GPU was the manufacturer's control panel. This is still useful, especially if you're looking for a even more granular control or customize specific 3D settings. Here's how you would do it for NVIDIA or AMD:
- Right click on the desktop and select NVIDIA Control Panel or open the AMD Radeon software.
- Go to 3D Settings > Control 3D Settings (NVIDIA) or to the graphics preferences section (AMD).
- En the Global Settings tab, you can choose which GPU will be used by default for all 3D apps: automatic, integrated or dedicated selection.
- To select specific programs, go to Program Settings. Select the app/game executable and select your preferred GPU. Add programs using the button. Add if they do not appear on the list.
- Save changes with Apply. Every time you open that app, it will boot with the GPU you've set.
Tip: Although Windows now has priority in management, it is advisable sync settings in both places to avoid conflicts, especially on updated equipment.
When is it useful to intervene from the BIOS?
Some laptops and PCs allow you to define the primary graphics card from the BIOS. This can be useful in cases of compatibility problems or to ensure that it always uses the dedicated graphics card. However, on recent laptops and modern systems, Disabling the integrated may cause stability and compatibility issues in some apps, such as video editing or specialized software.
The most common steps are:
- Reboot and access the BIOS by pressing the corresponding key (Escape, F2, F10, F12, depending on the manufacturer).
- Look for the menu Advanced o Integrated device options.
- Choose the option Recorders and select Discrete Graphics or uncheck Enable hybrid graphics.
- Save and exit BIOS.
Always consult your computer's specific documentation, as options vary by model and brand (HP, Dell, ASUS, etc.) for more details on how to manage graphics.
Checking which GPU each application is using
If you want to make sure the changes have been applied correctly, you can easily check which GPU each application is using:
- Open the Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
- In the Processes, right click on the column header and activate GPU y GPU Engine.
- You will see two columns: one shows the usage in percentage of each GPU per process, and another the number of associated GPUs (see the tab Unlimited to know which number corresponds to each one).
This way you can instantly identify if your game or software is taking advantage of the dedicated or integrated graphics and adjust if necessary.
Particularities according to Windows version
Since the Windows 2004 10 Update and in Windows 11, the native GPU management through system settings has priority on the manufacturer's panel. This means that even if you set the preferred card in the NVIDIA/AMD panel, Windows Settings will determine the GPU for each app, with exceptions. Therefore, the best practice is to define the same setting in both places to prevent the system from overwriting it.
Extra considerations for laptops and work computers
In laptops, the power options play a key role. Windows usually prioritizes the integrated GPU when it detects that the device is running on battery power, to maximize battery life. This can cause it to continue using the lowest power source even when connected to the power supply unless you manually change it. Additionally, some applications follow their own internal preferences and they might ignore Windows selection, although this is becoming less common.
For users of professional software (CAD, video editing, industrial graphics), check the documentation for specific recommendations on which GPU to use, as disable the integrated could limit functionality or cause errors. For this, you can also consult How to find out your equipment's specifications and adjust the settings accordingly.
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