Setting the Default GPU for Applications in Windows 11

Key Notes

  • Easily switch default GPUs for applications in Windows 11 settings.
  • Available options include ‘Power Saving’ and ‘High Performance’.
  • Changes apply immediately after configuration is completed.

Master Your Graphics: Changing Default GPU Settings on Windows 11

Managing GPU settings is vital for enhancing performance and battery life on your system. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for adjusting default graphics settings based on your application’s needs, ensuring optimal performance on Windows 11.

Setting Default GPU for Applications on Windows 11 (24H2)

To configure a specific GPU for an application on Windows 11 24H2 and higher, follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings on your Windows 11 device.

  2. Click on System.

  3. Choose the Display option from the sidebar.

  4. Under the “Related settings, ” select Graphics.

  5. Click the “Add desktop app” or “Add Microsoft Store app” button.

    Pro Tip: For desktop apps, select the “.exe” file, whereas Microsoft Store apps can be selected directly from the list.

  6. Expand the settings for the chosen app.

  7. Select the desired graphics card option from the “GPU preference” menu:

    • Let Windows decide (default) — The system decides which GPU is best.
    • Power Saving — Runs the app on the least power-consuming GPU.
    • High Performance — Uses the most powerful GPU available.

  8. (Optional) Enable the “Optimizations for windowed games” toggle to enhance gaming performance.

  9. Restart the application to apply the new settings, if needed.

After completing these steps, the app will now utilize the specified GPU in Windows 11 24H2.

If you wish to revert this change, follow the previous instructions and click the “Reset” button for the app in question.

Configure Default GPU for Applications on Windows 11 (23H2)

For users still on Windows 11 23H2 or earlier, here are the steps to change the default GPU settings:

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Click on System.

  3. Navigate to the Display page on the right.

  4. Under “Related settings, ” select Graphics.

  5. Choose the “Desktop app” option for apps installed outside the Store or “Microsoft Store app” for apps directly from the Store using “Add an app.”

  6. Click the Browse button to locate your application.

  7. Click Options to set the preference.

  8. Select the preferred GPU:

    • Let Windows decide (default) — Default selection by the system.
    • Power saving — Draws the least power.
    • High performance — Utilizes the top GPU.

  9. Press the Save button to apply your changes.

The chosen GPU will be in effect the next time you open the app. Repeat these steps for additional applications as needed.

Note that these settings will override any graphics card preferences set in other control panels, like those from AMD or NVidia.

If changes are no longer required, navigate to the “Graphics” settings, select the apps, and click “Remove”.

Additional Tips

  • Check your application’s preferences to ensure the GPU settings are not being overridden.
  • Regularly update your graphics drivers for optimal performance.
  • Disable settings for applications that do not require high-performance graphics for battery conservation.

Summary

This guide has outlined the straightforward steps to change the default GPU for applications on Windows 11, ensuring your apps perform efficiently based on their graphical needs. Whether using Windows 11 24H2 or 23H2, users can easily optimize their settings for both performance and power efficiency.

Conclusion

Adapting the default GPU for applications can significantly enhance your experience on Windows 11. With these simple adjustments, you can tailor your software performance to match your workflow or gaming requirements, leading to more efficient operation and better resource management. Start making these changes today for an optimized system!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I revert to the default GPU settings?

Yes, you can use the same steps, but instead of adding preferences, choose to reset the application settings.

Does setting a default GPU affect my battery life?

Yes, selecting “Power Saving” can prolong battery life by utilizing the integrated GPU instead of the more power-intensive dedicated graphics card.