In multi-GPU computers running Windows 10, you can manually specify which graphics card a Windows app should use as default to either improve performance or increase battery efficiency. So today, we will show you how to set default GPU for apps in multi-GPU Windows 10 computers.
Generally, the integrated GPU (IGPU) is more power efficient, while the discrete GPU is better for demanding games and graphics-heavy applications. So if you’re looking to maximize performance without compromising on power efficiency, you’ve come to the right place. That’s because in this tutorial, we’ll show you how to set a preferred GPU for specific apps in Windows 10.
Navigate to the program’s installation directory. Now select the .exe file for that application and click on ‘Add’.
Once you’ve selected the app, click on ‘Add’.
Let Windows Decide
Power Saving (typically the integrated GPU)
High Performance (typically the discrete GPU)
Choose the option you want and remember to click on the ‘Save’ button once you’ve taken your pick.
List of Popular GPUs
The method described below works for all modern graphics processors, so you can use it to set your preferred Nvidia or AMD card as default for any app in Windows 10. We have mentioned a list of popular GPUs below. Note that this is not an exhaustive list and is here to only serve as an example.
Choose Your Preferred Graphics Processor for Apps on Your Computer
Using the method above, you can set your default graphics card preference (either Nvidia or AMD) for any number of apps in Windows 10. Starting with build 20190, Windows 10 is also letting users specify graphics cards on a per-application basis for even more granular control. It was rolled out late last year to Windows Insiders in the Dev channel, so if you are OK with the bugs and the potential instability, you can join the Windows Insider program by clicking through this link.
