How to use integrated graphics instead of a GPU

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Using the best GPU you can afford is a surefire way to experience high-quality gaming and graphics processing on a computer. However, you can bypass the graphics card on most computers and get display output directly from the motherboard. This depends on the CPU's integrated graphics processor.




There are several reasons to switch from your dedicated GPU back to integrated graphics. The first option is to get rid of the GPU. However, a more common reason is diagnosing problems with the graphics card. This is a good way to do some testing if your GPU isn't working properly. Now let's take a closer look at the switch from dedicated to integrated graphics.

Processors without integrated graphics

Make sure your CPU has integrated graphics


Before switching to integrated graphics, it is important to check whether your CPU has the appropriate capacity. Not all AMD and Intel processors have integrated graphics capabilities. Processors without integrated graphics require a dedicated graphics card. If you try to use the motherboard HDMI port with one of these processors, nothing will appear on the connected screen.

All AMD Ryzen 7000 and newer processors have integrated graphics. Those with a G are enough to have more powerful GPUs for gaming. Conversely, all Intel processors except those with the suffixes have integrated graphicsX or F.

How to use integrated graphics

A step-by-step guide

The easiest way to switch to integrated graphics is to remove the GPU. However, this requires dismantling the housing and bypassing sensitive components. If you want to temporarily switch to integrated graphics, it's best to change the output method in the BIOS.


  1. Restart the computer and start the system BIOS. Each motherboard manufacturer uses a different key to enter the system BIOS. However, this information should appear upon reboot.
    MSI BIOS boot screen

  2. Go to the settings menu and then search graphic Configuration. Again, this setting is in a different location on each motherboard, but it is at the bottom Progressive on MSI boards.
    MSI BIOS with Advanced option selected.

  3. Switch from PEG to IGD.
    MSI BIOS switches to integrated graphics

  4. Save and exit BIOS.
    Save MSI BIOS settings and reboot


How do I use integrated graphics for selected applications?

Additionally, you can switch from dedicated to integrated graphics for a single game or application in the Settings menu. This is a great option if you have problems with certain programs.

  1. Open that Settings Menu in Windows.
    Select “Display” in System Preferences

  2. Navigate to system > Advertisement > graphic.
    Selecting “Graphics” from the Windows 11 Display menu in System Settings

  3. Select the game or app to run with integrated graphics, then click Options.
    Selecting a game to change the graphics output

  4. Change the selection to integrated graphics card. This may not work for all games or GPUs. However, it is common with laptops.
    Switch which graphics card a game uses in Windows 11


How to use dedicated graphics

It's pretty easy to switch back

Nvidia Geforce RTX 4070 Super Founders Edition installed on testbench, power supply is displayed

When you install a GPU for the first time, the computer should automatically download the necessary drivers. All you need to do is connect the HDMI or DisplayPort cable to the GPU and turn on the computer. But switching back to a GPU after using it for integrated graphics may require a few more steps, including changing the output in the BIOS.

  1. Reinstall the GPU if you have removed it and start anew The computer.
  2. If the display with the GPU does not turn on, restart your computer and Boot into BIOS.
    MSI BIOS boot screen

  3. Find them graphic Settings in BIOS.
    MSI BIOS with Advanced option selected.

  4. Change the default graphics output of IGD to PEG.
    MSI BIOS switches from IGD to PEG

  5. Save the changes in BIOS and start the operating system.
    Save MSI BIOS settings and reboot


Why switch to integrated graphics on a PC?

Useful for GPU troubleshooting

By now you may be wondering why you should bother switching from a graphics card to an integrated graphics card. There's certainly no performance advantage unless there's something fundamentally wrong with the GPU. However, some people choose to sell their current GPU before buying a new one. Another reason is diagnosing a faulty GPU. Switching to integrated graphics can be a lifesaver if a GPU fails, as it means you can still use the computer for everyday tasks.

Of course, serious gamers will want to use a dedicated graphics card that can deliver higher resolution and FPS. Luckily, GPU prices have dropped dramatically and there are some really affordable graphics cards out there.


With this in mind, integrated graphics have come a long way, and a modern CPU can actually output many games in high definition. If you have an old graphics card, you may be surprised to know that a newer CPU like the Ryzen 7 8700G with integrated graphics may outperform it.

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