Have you ever wondered what graphics card your computer has — or whether it’s powerful enough to run your favorite games or editing software? Whether you’re troubleshooting performance issues, upgrading your system, or simply curious, knowing how to check your graphics card on Windows 10 is essential.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you every possible way to find out what GPU you have, how much memory it has, and whether it’s working properly — all without any technical confusion.
🔍 Summary: Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Goal | Identify your graphics card (GPU) and its details on Windows 10 |
| Methods | Device Manager, Task Manager, DirectX Diagnostic Tool, System Information, and GPU utilities |
| Best For | Gamers, editors, or users troubleshooting graphics issues |
| Key Tools | DxDiag, Device Manager, GPU-Z, NVIDIA Control Panel, AMD Radeon Software |
| Pro Tip | Keep GPU drivers updated for better performance and stability |
🧠 What Is a Graphics Card (GPU)?
Your graphics card, also known as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), is responsible for rendering images, videos, and animations on your screen.
There are two main types:
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Integrated GPU: Built into your CPU (e.g., Intel UHD Graphics, AMD Vega).
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Dedicated GPU: A separate card from brands like NVIDIA or AMD, offering higher performance for gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering.
Knowing which one you have helps you:
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Troubleshoot display issues
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Check compatibility for games or software
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Upgrade your system smartly
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Monitor performance and health
🧭 How to Check Graphics Card on Windows 10 (Step-by-Step Methods)
Let’s explore the most effective ways to check your GPU on Windows 10 — from built-in tools to advanced utilities.
🖥️ Method 1: Check GPU via Task Manager (Quick & Easy)
Task Manager gives you a quick overview of your GPU model and real-time performance.
Steps:
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Right-click the taskbar and select Task Manager.
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Click More details (if it’s in compact view).
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Go to the Performance tab.
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Select GPU 0 (and GPU 1, if you have more than one).
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You’ll see:
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GPU name (e.g., NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti)
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GPU usage
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Memory usage
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Temperature (on newer versions)
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Driver version
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💡 Tip: If you have both integrated and dedicated GPUs, you’ll see multiple GPU tabs (GPU 0, GPU 1, etc.).
⚙️ Method 2: Use Device Manager
Device Manager is one of the simplest tools to identify your graphics card and check if it’s working properly.
Steps:
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Press Windows + X, then click Device Manager.
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Expand Display adapters.
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You’ll see the name(s) of your GPU(s).
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Right-click your GPU and select Properties to view details like:
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Driver version
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Manufacturer
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Device status
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Bonus:
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If you see “Microsoft Basic Display Adapter,” it means your GPU driver isn’t installed correctly.
🎮 Method 3: Check GPU with DirectX Diagnostic Tool (DxDiag)
The DirectX Diagnostic Tool gives detailed hardware information — perfect for checking your GPU, sound, and display.
Steps:
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Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
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Type dxdiag and hit Enter.
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In the DxDiag window, go to the Display tab.
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You’ll find:
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GPU name
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Manufacturer
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Approx. total memory
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Driver version and date
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DirectX features
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✅ Pro Tip: DxDiag also lets you save all info as a text file — useful for support requests or troubleshooting.
🧾 Method 4: Check Graphics Card via System Information
System Information provides a comprehensive look at your hardware and software setup.
Steps:
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Press Windows + R, type msinfo32, and press Enter.
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Navigate to:
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Components → Display
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You’ll see:
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GPU name
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Driver details
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Adapter RAM
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Resolution and refresh rate
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🧩 Note: This method lists both active and inactive GPUs if your PC has multiple graphics adapters.
🔍 Method 5: Use Settings App (For Basic GPU Info)
Windows 10’s Settings app also provides a quick glimpse of your GPU setup.
Steps:
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Right-click your desktop and select Display settings.
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Scroll down and click Advanced display settings.
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Under Display information, you’ll see your display adapter listed.
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Click Display adapter properties for Display 1 for more details.
🧰 Method 6: Use Third-Party Software (Advanced Details)
For a deeper dive into GPU performance, sensors, and specs, use third-party tools.
Popular GPU Tools:
| Tool | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| GPU-Z | Power users | Real-time sensors, memory type, clock speed |
| Speccy | General users | Full system summary, temperature monitoring |
| HWMonitor | Tech-savvy users | Voltage, fan speed, temperature |
| MSI Afterburner | Gamers | Real-time overlay, overclocking |
| Open Hardware Monitor | Free, open-source | Tracks all hardware sensors |
Example (GPU-Z):
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Download GPU-Z from TechPowerUp.
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Run it (no installation required).
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You’ll see:
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GPU model and architecture
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VRAM (Video Memory)
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Core and memory clock speeds
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Driver version
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Temperature and power draw
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💡 Why You Should Know Your GPU Details
Understanding your GPU details can help you:
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Determine game compatibility (e.g., minimum specs)
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Solve performance or driver issues
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Choose the right graphics settings for apps or games
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Identify if it’s time for an upgrade
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Compare specs between integrated and dedicated GPUs
🧩 Integrated vs. Dedicated Graphics: What’s the Difference?
| Type | Description | Performance | Power Consumption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Integrated GPU | Built into the CPU (Intel, AMD) | Lower (good for browsing, video playback) | Low |
| Dedicated GPU | Separate card (NVIDIA, AMD) | High (ideal for gaming, rendering) | Higher |
⚙️ Example: Intel UHD Graphics (integrated) vs. NVIDIA RTX 3060 (dedicated) — the latter is much faster and supports real-time ray tracing.
🔧 How to Check If Your PC Has Both Integrated and Dedicated GPUs
Some laptops (especially gaming laptops) have two GPUs — one for light tasks (integrated) and another for high-performance tasks (dedicated).
Steps:
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Open Device Manager → Display adapters.
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If you see both Intel HD Graphics and NVIDIA/AMD GPU, you have dual graphics.
You can also check which GPU your apps are using:
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Go to Settings → System → Display → Graphics settings.
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Choose an app → Options.
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Set it to use Power Saving (integrated) or High Performance (dedicated) GPU.
📊 How to Check GPU Memory (VRAM) on Windows 10
VRAM (Video RAM) determines how much texture and image data your GPU can handle — crucial for gaming and video editing.
Steps:
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Right-click your desktop → Display settings.
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Click Advanced display settings.
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Select Display adapter properties.
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Under the Adapter tab, look for Dedicated Video Memory — that’s your VRAM.
🧠 What to Do If Windows 10 Doesn’t Detect Your GPU
If your graphics card isn’t showing up, don’t panic — it’s often a driver issue.
Troubleshooting Steps:
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Update GPU drivers
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Use Device Manager → Display adapters → Update driver.
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Or visit NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel’s official websites.
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Reseat the GPU (for desktops).
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Check BIOS settings — ensure the dedicated GPU is enabled.
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Uninstall and reinstall drivers using Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) in Safe Mode.
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Run Windows Update to get the latest compatibility fixes.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid using third-party driver sites — always get drivers from official sources.
🧮 How to Check Graphics Card Performance
Once you’ve identified your GPU, you can test its performance.
Options:
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Task Manager → Performance → GPU (real-time usage)
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3DMark or Unigine Heaven (benchmark tools)
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MSI Afterburner for in-game overlays
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Windows Game Bar (Win + G) for basic monitoring
🧰 Updating Your Graphics Drivers (Recommended Step)
Updated drivers ensure compatibility, bug fixes, and performance improvements.
| Manufacturer | Update Method |
|---|---|
| NVIDIA | GeForce Experience → Drivers tab → Check for updates |
| AMD | Radeon Software → Updates → Check for updates |
| Intel | Intel Driver & Support Assistant |
💡 Tip: Always restart your PC after updating GPU drivers.
🧊 Pro Tips to Optimize GPU Performance
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Keep your system clean and dust-free.
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Update Windows and GPU drivers regularly.
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Close background apps before gaming.
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Use a cooling pad for laptops.
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Adjust graphics settings (resolution, shadows, etc.) for performance balance.
⚠️ Common GPU Issues and Fixes
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Screen flickering | Outdated driver | Update or reinstall driver |
| No display output | Loose GPU or cable | Reseat GPU / check connections |
| Game crashes | Overheating | Monitor temps, clean fans |
| GPU not detected | BIOS or driver error | Enable GPU, reinstall drivers |
💻 How to Find GPU Information for Support or Upgrades
When contacting support or buying a new GPU, you’ll need details like:
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GPU model
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Driver version
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VRAM size
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Manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel)
You can copy these from Device Manager → Properties → Details tab → Hardware IDs — or simply save the DxDiag report.
🧾 Conclusion: Mastering GPU Info in Windows 10
Now you know how to check your graphics card on Windows 10 using multiple tools — from Task Manager to GPU-Z. Whether you’re gaming, editing videos, or just troubleshooting, understanding your GPU’s specs gives you a serious edge.
Quick recap:
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Use Task Manager or Device Manager for quick checks.
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Use DxDiag or System Information for detailed info.
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Use GPU-Z or MSI Afterburner for advanced monitoring.
Keeping your GPU drivers updated and monitoring its health regularly ensures better performance, stability, and longevity.
❓ FAQs: How to Check Graphics Card on Windows 10
1. How can I see my graphics card specs in Windows 10?
Use Task Manager → Performance → GPU or Device Manager → Display adapters to view your GPU details.
2. How do I check if I have NVIDIA or AMD GPU?
Go to Device Manager → Display adapters. The brand name (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) will be listed there.
3. Can I find GPU details without installing any software?
Yes — use built-in tools like Task Manager, DxDiag, or System Information.
4. Why isn’t my GPU showing in Device Manager?
It could be due to missing drivers, disabled hardware, or BIOS settings. Reinstall drivers or check BIOS configuration.
5. How do I know how much VRAM I have?
Go to Display settings → Advanced display settings → Display adapter properties → Adapter tab — your Dedicated Video Memory is your VRAM.
✅ Final Tip:
Regularly check your graphics card info and drivers — it’s the easiest way to keep your PC running smoothly, prevent crashes, and get the best visual experience in games or creative apps.