Struggling with games using the wrong graphics card? You can fix this by disabling integrated graphics on laptop through Device Manager or BIOS settings. This forces your system to use only your dedicated GPU, solving performance issues and crashes.
The quickest method takes just 3 clicks in Device Manager – right-click your integrated graphics, select “Disable device,” and confirm. This guide shows you every method that works in 2025.
Let’s dive into exactly how to turn off integrated graphics and when you should (or shouldn’t) do it.
What Is Integrated Graphics and Why Disable It?
Integrated graphics (iGPU) is a graphics processor built directly into your CPU. Unlike a dedicated graphics card, it shares your system RAM and offers basic display capabilities. Most modern Intel and AMD processors include integrated graphics.
Here’s why you might want to disable integrated GPU:
- Games detect the wrong GPU – Your games run on Intel HD Graphics instead of your NVIDIA or AMD card
- Performance bottlenecks – The iGPU limits your dedicated GPU’s performance
- RAM usage – Integrated graphics reserves 1-4GB of your system memory
- Heating issues – Both GPUs running simultaneously increases laptop temperature
- Battery drain – Unnecessary power consumption from unused hardware
However, disabling integrated graphics on laptop isn’t always the best choice. Your situation matters.
Can You Disable Integrated Graphics on Laptop? (Must Know First)
Before you disable integrated graphics, understand these critical points:
Desktop vs Laptop Differences:
- Desktops usually allow full iGPU disabling
- Many laptops hardwire the display through integrated graphics
- Gaming laptops with MUX switches offer more flexibility
When You CAN Safely Disable:
- Your laptop has a dedicated GPU (check Device Manager first)
- You’re plugged into external power
- You don’t need battery-saving features
- Your BIOS supports iGPU toggling
When You SHOULD NOT Disable:
- Laptops without dedicated graphics cards
- When running on battery (reduces battery life significantly)
- If you use multiple monitors
- Older laptops that route display through iGPU
Always verify you have a working dedicated GPU before proceeding. Check this by opening Device Manager and expanding “Display adapters.”
Windows 11 Disable Integrated Graphics: Step-by-Step Guide
Windows 11 disable integrated graphics works similarly to Windows 10, with slight interface changes. Here’s the complete process:
- Check Your Current GPUs
- Press Windows + X
- Select “Device Manager”
- Expand “Display adapters”
- Note both graphics cards listed
- Update Your Dedicated GPU Driver First
- Right-click your dedicated GPU
- Select “Update driver”
- Choose “Search automatically”
- Restart after updates complete
- Set Preferred Graphics
- Open Settings (Windows + I)
- Navigate to System > Display > Graphics
- Add your games/apps
- Set each to “High performance”
This prepares your system before disabling the iGPU, preventing black screens.
How to Disable Integrated GPU Through Device Manager?
The Device Manager method is fastest for disabling integrated graphics on laptop. Follow these steps:
- Open Device Manager
- Right-click the Start button
- Select “Device Manager”
- Or press Windows + X, then M
- Find Your Integrated Graphics
- Expand “Display adapters”
- Look for Intel HD Graphics, Intel Iris, or AMD Radeon Graphics
- The integrated GPU usually has “Intel” or includes your CPU model
- Disable the iGPU
- Right-click the integrated graphics
- Select “Disable device”
- Click “Yes” to confirm
- Verify the Change
- Your screen might flicker briefly
- Check Task Manager’s Performance tab
- Only your dedicated GPU should appear active
If your screen goes black, wait 15 seconds. Windows usually recovers automatically. If not, restart in Safe Mode to re-enable.
How to Turn Off Integrated Graphics in BIOS?
BIOS offers permanent control over integrated graphics. This method prevents Windows from re-enabling the iGPU after updates. Here’s how to turn off integrated graphics through BIOS:
- Enter BIOS
- Restart your laptop
- Press the BIOS key repeatedly (F2, Delete, or F10)
- Key varies by manufacturer
- Navigate to Graphics Settings
- Look for “Advanced” or “Chipset Configuration”
- Find “Graphics Configuration” or “Video”
- Locations vary by BIOS version
- Disable Integrated Graphics
- Find “iGPU,” “Internal Graphics,” or “Onboard VGA”
- Change setting to “Disabled”
- Some BIOS show “Primary Display” – set to “PEG” or “PCIe”
- Save and Exit
- Press F10 to save
- Confirm changes
- System will restart
Warning: Not all laptop BIOS versions include this option. Gaming laptops typically offer more control than standard models.
How to Disable Switchable Graphics on Different Brands?
Each manufacturer implements switchable graphics differently. Here’s how to disable switchable graphics by brand:
HP Laptops:
- Enter BIOS (ESC then F10)
- Navigate to “System Configuration”
- Find “Switchable Graphics”
- Set to “Discrete Graphics”
Dell Laptops:
- Enter BIOS (F2 at startup)
- Go to “Video” settings
- Expand “Switchable Graphics”
- Uncheck “Enable Switchable Graphics”
ASUS Laptops:
- BIOS access (F2 or Delete)
- Find the “Advanced” menu
- Look for “Graphics Configuration”
- Disable “iGPU Multi-Monitor”
Lenovo ThinkPads:
- Enter BIOS (F1 at startup)
- Navigate to “Config” > “Display”
- Set “Graphics Device” to “Discrete Graphics”
- Disable “OS Detection for Switchable Graphics”
For detailed ASUS instructions, check our guide on enabling or disabling ASUS integrated graphics.
Troubleshooting: Common Issues When Disabling iGPU
Problems can occur when you disable the integrated GPU. Here are solutions:
Black Screen After Disabling:
- Boot into Safe Mode (F8 during startup)
- Re-enable integrated graphics
- Update both GPU drivers
- Try BIOS method instead
Games Still Using Wrong GPU:
- Check Windows Graphics Settings
- Use NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Software
- Set each game manually to dedicated GPU
- Disable Xbox Game Bar’s GPU scheduling
System Won’t Boot:
- Clear CMOS (remove battery for 30 seconds)
- Connect external monitor
- Boot with one RAM stick
- Restore BIOS defaults
Lower Performance After Disabling:
- Ensure dedicated GPU drivers are current
- Check power settings (High Performance mode)
- Monitor GPU temperatures
- Verify PCIe power settings
For monitor-related issues after changing graphics settings, see our monitor troubleshooting guides.
Should I Disable iGPU 7800x3d? (AMD Users Guide)
The question “should I disable igpu 7800x3d” comes up frequently among AMD users. The 7800X3D includes basic integrated graphics, and here’s what you need to know:
Benefits of Disabling 7800X3D iGPU:
- Frees up to 2GB system RAM
- Reduces idle power consumption
- Prevents driver conflicts with dedicated GPU
- Can improve system stability
When to Keep It Enabled:
- Troubleshooting display issues
- Running multiple monitors
- Need backup graphics option
- Using specific encoding features
To disable:
- Enter BIOS (Delete key)
- Find “Integrated Graphics”
- Set to “Disabled” or “Force PEG”
- Save and exit
Most 7800X3D users with dedicated GPUs see benefits from disabling the iGPU, especially for pure gaming systems.
How to Turn On Integrated Graphics (If You Need To)?
Sometimes you need to enable onboard graphics with the card still installed. Here’s how to turn on integrated graphics:
Through Device Manager:
- Open Device Manager
- Expand “Display adapters”
- Right-click disabled integrated graphics
- Select “Enable device”
Through BIOS:
- Enter BIOS settings
- Navigate to Graphics Configuration
- Enable “iGPU” or “Internal Graphics”
- Set “iGPU Multi-Monitor” to enabled
- Save and restart
Why Re-enable?
- Troubleshooting dedicated GPU issues
- Reducing power consumption on the battery
- Running multiple monitors efficiently
- Video encoding acceleration
Frequently Asked Questions
Will disabling integrated graphics brick my laptop?
No, disabling integrated graphics won’t permanently damage your laptop. If problems occur, you can boot into Safe Mode and re-enable it through Device Manager. Some laptops require integrated graphics for the display to work, but Windows typically prevents you from disabling it in these cases.
Does disabling integrated graphics improve FPS?
Yes, disabling integrated graphics can improve FPS by ensuring games use only your dedicated GPU. This eliminates confusion in graphics switching and frees up system RAM. Performance gains are most noticeable in games that incorrectly detect or switch between GPUs during gameplay.
Can I disable integrated graphics on a laptop without dedicated GPU?
No, you cannot disable integrated graphics if it’s your only GPU. Your laptop needs at least one functioning graphics processor to display anything. Windows prevents disabling the only available graphics adapter to protect users from losing display functionality.
Why do games still use integrated graphics after I set them to dedicated GPU?
This happens when Windows Graphics Settings conflict with GPU control panels. First, ensure integrated graphics is fully disabled. Then check NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Software settings. Some games require administrator privileges to use dedicated graphics properly. Also disable Windows GPU scheduling features.
Is it safe to disable integrated graphics while gaming?
Yes, it’s safe to disable integrated graphics while gaming if you have a dedicated GPU. In fact, it often improves gaming performance by preventing GPU switching mid-game. Just ensure your laptop is plugged in and properly cooled, as your dedicated GPU will handle all graphics processing.
How do I know if my laptop uses Optimus or switchable graphics?
Check Device Manager for two display adapters – if you see both Intel/AMD integrated graphics and NVIDIA/AMD dedicated graphics, you have switchable graphics. NVIDIA Optimus laptops show both Intel and NVIDIA GPUs. You can also check your laptop’s specifications or BIOS for switchable graphics options.
What happens to battery life after disabling integrated graphics?
Battery life decreases significantly after disabling integrated graphics because your dedicated GPU consumes much more power. Integrated graphics use 5-15 watts while dedicated GPUs use 25-150 watts. Only disable integrated graphics when connected to power or if battery life isn’t a concern.
Take Control of Your Graphics Performance Today
You now know exactly how to disable integrated graphics on a laptop using multiple methods. Whether through Device Manager for quick changes or BIOS for permanent settings, you can force your system to use only your dedicated GPU.
Remember to verify you have a dedicated graphics card before disabling integrated graphics. Start with the Device Manager method first – it’s reversible and takes just seconds.
