Windows 11 · Windows
Use the NVIDIA GPU for an app in Windows 11
Source-checked About 10 minutes
Answer
Set the app to High performance under Windows Graphics settings; Windows now controls per-app GPU preference on hybrid Intel and NVIDIA systems.
Check the app's Windows graphics preference before changing anything
Identify the exact device, app, account, error, and affected feature for the app's Windows graphics preference. Keep the current result visible or record it first, so the page's later actions can be tested against one clear starting point.
Use the supported controls for the app's Windows graphics preference
Follow the specific control path in the next steps and change only the setting or component that matches the observed problem. Do not combine resets, driver changes, account changes, or third-party tools before checking the documented route.
Open Graphics settings
Open Settings > System > Display > Graphics.
Add or select the app
Choose the desktop or Microsoft Store app. If it is missing, browse to its executable.
Choose High performance
Select Options > High performance, confirm that the listed GPU is the NVIDIA processor, and select Save.
Restart and verify
Restart the app and check its GPU engine in Task Manager. If NVIDIA is not listed, install the PC manufacturer's current graphics drivers.
Verify the result for the app's Windows graphics preference
The chosen app reports the intended GPU under a repeatable workload without display loss, instability, or excessive battery use. Repeat the original task once after reopening the relevant app or settings page, so a temporary screen refresh is not mistaken for a completed result.
Narrow down problems with the app's Windows graphics preference
If the app ignores the preference, only one GPU is detected, an external display is wired to another adapter, or a driver overrides Windows, stop broad resets and return to the last known state. Capture the exact error, versions, hardware or account scope, and failed step before using the linked official support channel.
Video walkthrough
If it does not work
- If the app's Windows graphics preference is unchanged after the documented check, return to the first observed condition and identify whether it affects one app, account, device, or every task before repeating steps.
- If the labels differ after an update or the device is managed, retain the exact condition and use the linked owner source before removing data, resetting Windows, or installing an unrelated tool.
Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: Windows.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.