To check graphics card memory (VRAM) on Windows 11, open Task Manager with Ctrl + Shift + Esc, go to Performance and select GPU. Dedicated GPU memory is the card’s own VRAM; Shared GPU memory is the portion of ordinary RAM that Windows may lend to graphics. You can also see Dedicated Video Memory in Settings > System > Display > Advanced display > Display adapter properties, or run dxdiag. PCs with integrated graphics usually show little dedicated memory, which is normal.
Quick Answer
Task Manager > Performance > GPU > Dedicated GPU memory.
Steps to Check VRAM
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Click Performance, then GPU 0 (or GPU 1 on PCs with two GPUs).
- Look at the Dedicated GPU memory figure; that total is your VRAM.
- For another view, press Windows + R, run dxdiag, open the Display tab and check Display Memory (VRAM).
Where to Find GPU Memory
| Tool | What it shows |
|---|---|
| Task Manager > Performance > GPU | Dedicated and shared memory, live usage |
| Display adapter properties | Dedicated Video Memory, Shared System Memory |
| dxdiag > Display | Display Memory (VRAM) and driver details |
| GPU maker’s control panel | Full specifications |
Troubleshooting
- Two GPUs listed: Laptops often have integrated and dedicated graphics; check each GPU entry.
- Numbers seem low: Integrated graphics use shared memory by design.
- Which card do I have? See identifying the GPU in a Windows 11 PC.
- On Windows 10: See checking graphics card memory in Windows 10.
- Want more VRAM: See what you can and can’t change about VRAM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my VRAM enough?
It depends on the use: everyday tasks need little, while modern games and video editing benefit from 8 GB or more.
Can I add VRAM?
Not to a dedicated card. On some PCs with integrated graphics, the firmware lets you change how much RAM is reserved.
Why is shared memory so large?
It’s a ceiling, not usage: Windows sets aside a share of RAM (often around half) that graphics can use on demand.
Summary
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc and choose the GPU under Performance.
- Note the Dedicated GPU memory total.
- Use dxdiag or adapter properties to confirm.
- Expect low dedicated memory on integrated graphics.
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.
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