How to Use Integrated Graphics Rather Than a GPU

A good GPU is the most effective way to enjoy high-quality visuals on a computer. On most PCs, however, you may bypass the graphics card and receive a visual output directly from the motherboard. This is dependent on the integrated graphics processor of the CPU.

There are several reasons to return to integrated graphics from your dedicated GPU. The first is if you are removing the GPU. However, the most prevalent purpose is to identify graphics card issues. If your GPU isn’t operating correctly, this is a nice method to test it. Let’s take a deeper look at the transition from dedicated to integrated graphics.

Processors with no built-in graphics

Before attempting to convert to integrated graphics, be sure your CPU has the necessary capabilities. AMD and Intel both sell CPUs without integrated graphics. Processors lacking integrated graphics necessitate the use of a separate graphics card. If you connect one of these processors to the motherboard’s HDMI connector, nothing will appear on the screen.

The model number is the simplest method to tell if your CPU has integrated graphics. AMD CPUs ending with a G feature integrated graphics that you may enable or disable. Intel CPUs ending with the letters X or F, on the other hand, do not have integrated graphics.

How to Make Use of Integrated Graphics

The simplest approach to transition to integrated graphics is to remove the GPU. However, this necessitates disassembling the casing and working around fragile components. If you wish to switch to integrated graphics temporarily, alter the output method in the BIOS.

1. Reboot the computer and enter the system BIOS. Each motherboard manufacturer employs a unique key to access the system BIOS, although this information should be shown upon the restart.
2. Navigate to the settings menu and then to the graphics setup section. Again, each motherboard has this parameter in a different location, however on MSI boards, it is under Advanced.
3. Change PEG to IGD.
4. By restarting the computer, you may save and leave the BIOS.

How to use dedicated graphics

The computer should automatically download the appropriate drivers when you initially install a GPU. Simply connect the HDMI or DisplayPort connection to the GPU and turn on the PC. However, going back to a GPU after using integrated graphics may necessitate a few extra steps, including adjusting the output in the BIOS.

1. If you took out the GPU, put it back in and restart the machine.
2. Restart your PC and boot into BIOS if the GPU isn’t enabling the display to turn on.
3. Find the BIOS’s graphical settings.
4. Switch from IGD to PEG as the default graphics output.
5. Save the BIOS modifications, then start the operating system.

Why would a PC user switch to integrated graphics?

You may be asking yourself by now, why bother with integrated graphics instead of a graphics card. Unless there is a serious issue with the GPU, there is definitely no performance gain. On the other hand, some decide to sell their old GPU instead of purchasing a new one. Determining the cause of a GPU issue is another factor. When a GPU fails, switching to integrated graphics can save your life because it still lets you use the computer for regular chores.

Of course, those who play games seriously should utilize a specialized graphics card that supports greater frames per second and resolution. Thankfully, the cost of GPUs has dropped significantly, and some really cheap graphics cards are available.

In light of this, integrated graphics have advanced significantly, and many games can now be rendered in high resolution using a current CPU. You might be shocked to learn that a modern CPU with integrated graphics can perform better than a very old graphics card.