How to Find Out What Graphics Card You Have
Your graphics card is like the artist inside your computer. It draws everything you see on screen from videos and games to simple pictures. Sometimes you need to know which graphics card is working on your PC. Maybe a game isn't running right, or you want to check if your card is good enough for new software.
Don't worry, finding this information is really simple. You don't need to be a computer expert. Here's how to do it in just a few minutes.
The Quick Way (Works on All Windows PCs)
This is the fastest method, and it works whether you have Windows 7, 10, or 11.
Step 1: Press the Windows key + R together on your keyboard. A small box will pop up.
Step 2: Type dxdiag in that box and press Enter.
Step 3: Wait a few seconds. A window called "DirectX Diagnostic Tool" will open.
Step 4: Click on the Display tab at the top.
Step 5: Look at the "Device" section. Here you'll see:
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Your graphics card's name (like NVIDIA GeForce or AMD Radeon)
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How much memory it has
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Who made it
That's it! You now know what graphics card you have.
Another Easy Way (For Windows 10 and 11)
If the first method seems confusing, try this one:
Step 1: Right-click anywhere on your desktop (the empty space where you see your wallpaper).
Step 2: Click on Display settings.
Step 3: Scroll down and click Advanced display.
Step 4: You'll see your graphics card name listed right there.
Why Does This Matter?
Knowing your graphics card helps you in several ways.
For Gamers: You can check if your card can run new games before buying them.
For Designers: Programs like SketchUp, Photoshop, or video editors need good graphics cards. If something looks weird or runs slowly, your card might be the reason.
For Upgrades: When buying a new graphics card, you need to know what you currently have.
For Help: If you're asking someone for computer help, they'll probably ask "what's your graphics card?" Now you'll know how to find out.
What If Your Graphics Look Strange?
Sometimes your screen might show blurry images, weird colors, or display problems. This usually means:
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Your graphics card drivers need updating.
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Your card might be struggling with heavy programs.
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The card might not be compatible with what you're trying to run.
If you're using SketchUp or similar programs and notice display issues, checking which graphics card you have is the first step to fixing the problem. You can then compare it with recommended graphics cards to see if an upgrade would help.
Quick Tips
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Write down your graphics card name somewhere safe. You might need it later.
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Most modern computers have graphics cards built into the processor (integrated graphics) or separate cards (dedicated graphics). Both will show up using the methods above.
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If you see two graphics cards listed, that's normal for laptops. They switch between them to save battery.
Finding your graphics card information takes less than a minute once you know how. Now you're ready to troubleshoot problems, check game requirements, or just know more about your computer. If you plan to upgrade, compare your current GPU with our Gaming Graphics Cards to find a compatible option.
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