Many laptops and some desktops have two graphics processors: a power-saving integrated GPU built into the processor and a more powerful dedicated GPU from NVIDIA or AMD. Windows 10 usually picks one automatically, but games, video editors, and 3D apps sometimes run on the weaker chip. This guide shows how to make Windows use your dedicated graphics card for specific apps, how to use the NVIDIA and AMD control panels, and what to check if the change does not stick.
Quick Answer
Go to Settings > System > Display and click Graphics settings. Choose Desktop app (or Microsoft Store app), click Browse, and add the program. Click it, choose Options, select High performance, and click Save. Restart the app.
Before You Start
- Check which GPUs you have: right-click Start, open Device Manager, and expand Display adapters. You should see two entries, such as an Intel or AMD integrated GPU and an NVIDIA or AMD dedicated GPU.
- Update graphics drivers from the GPU maker or your PC maker's support site.
- Plug in your laptop. Some laptops limit the dedicated GPU on battery power.
Method 1: Windows 10 Graphics Settings
- Press Windows key + I and go to System > Display.
- Scroll down and click Graphics settings.
- Under Choose an app to set preference, select Desktop app for regular programs or Microsoft Store app for Store apps.
- Click Browse and select the program's .exe file (often in C:\Program Files). For Store apps, choose from the list.
- Click the app in the list and then Options.
- Select High performance for the dedicated GPU, or Power saving for the integrated GPU.
- Click Save and restart the app.
This option requires Windows 10 version 1803 or later. On version 2004 and later, you may also see Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling on this page, which is a separate setting.
Method 2: NVIDIA Control Panel
- Right-click the desktop and choose NVIDIA Control Panel (or search for it in Start).
- Go to 3D Settings > Manage 3D settings.
- To change it for everything, on the Global Settings tab set Preferred graphics processor to High-performance NVIDIA processor.
- To change it for one app, open the Program Settings tab, select the program, and choose the preferred processor.
- Click Apply.
On newer systems, Windows Graphics settings take priority over the NVIDIA setting, so set both if an app still uses the wrong GPU.
Method 3: AMD Software
For AMD switchable graphics, open AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition (or the older Radeon Settings), go to System > Switchable Graphics or the equivalent section, and set the app to High Performance. Menu names vary by driver version.
Method 4: BIOS or MUX Switch (Some Laptops)
Some gaming laptops have a MUX switch or a BIOS setting to use only the dedicated GPU, sometimes called Discrete or dGPU only mode. This improves performance but reduces battery life. Check your laptop maker's control app or manual.
How to Confirm Which GPU an App Uses
- Open Task Manager with Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
- On the Processes tab, right-click a column header and enable GPU engine.
- Look for your app. The column shows GPU 0 or GPU 1. The Performance tab shows which number is which card.
Troubleshooting
The app still uses integrated graphics
- Make sure you added the correct .exe; some games use a launcher and a separate game executable.
- Restart the app or PC after changing settings.
- Update both GPU drivers.
Only one GPU appears
Your PC may have only one GPU, or the dedicated GPU driver may not be installed. Check Device Manager for a warning icon.
External monitor performance is poor
On many laptops, video outputs are wired to one specific GPU. Check your laptop's documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I disable the integrated GPU?
It is not recommended. On most laptops, the display is connected through the integrated GPU, and disabling it can cause a black screen.
Does High performance drain the battery?
Yes. Use it for demanding apps and leave everyday apps on Let Windows decide.
Is this the same in Windows 11?
Yes. Go to Settings > System > Display > Graphics, select the app, and choose a GPU preference.
Summary
- Open Settings > System > Display > Graphics settings.
- Add the app with Browse.
- Click Options and choose High performance.
- Use the NVIDIA or AMD control panel if needed, and confirm in Task Manager.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.