Setting the Default GPU for Applications in Windows 11

How to Change the Default GPU for Applications in Windows 11

Last Updated: January 5, 2026

In Windows 11, users can easily customize which graphics processing unit (GPU) their applications utilize. This guide will walk you through changing the default GPU settings for your applications, whether you’re looking to optimize performance or extend battery life. This capability is particularly beneficial for systems equipped with multiple GPUs, such as those with integrated graphics alongside a more powerful discrete GPU.

Setting the Default GPU for Apps in Windows 11 (New Interface)
Setting the Default GPU for Apps in Older Versions of Windows 11
FAQs on Changing Default GPU in Windows 11

Setting the Default GPU for Apps in Windows 11 (New Interface)

For users running Windows 11 versions 25H2, 24H2, or later, follow these steps to assign a specific GPU to an app:

Open Settings: Navigate to the Settings app in Windows 11.
Select System: Click on the ‘System’ option from the left sidebar.
Access Display Settings: On the right side, locate and click on ‘Display’.
Go to Graphics Settings: Under “Related settings, ” find and click on ‘Graphics’.
Add an App: Select either “Add desktop app” or “Add Microsoft Store app” from the available buttons.
Quick Note: For desktop apps, you’ll need to select the .exe file, while for Store apps, choose from the list.
Expand App Settings: Click on the app you wish to configure to expand its settings.
Choose GPU Preference: Select your desired GPU from the following options:
- Let Windows Decide: The system will autonomously choose the appropriate GPU.
- Power Saving: This option will utilize the GPU that consumes the least power, typically the integrated graphics.
- High Performance: This setting engages the most powerful GPU, often an external graphics card.
Optional Setting for Games: If you are adjusting settings for a game, consider toggling the “Optimizations for windowed games” switch.
Restart the App: Close and reopen the application for the new settings to take effect.

By following these steps, the selected GPU preferences will be in effect the next time the application launches.

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Should you wish to revert these changes, simply repeat the process and select the “Reset” button in Step 5.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIsM1nAa6u0

Windows 11: Change default GPU for apps or games (new & old methods) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIsM1nAa6u0)

Setting the Default GPU for Apps in Older Versions of Windows 11

For those on Windows 11 23H2 or earlier, the procedure differs slightly:

Open Settings: Access the Settings app.
Select System: Click ‘System’.
Access Display Settings: Find and click ‘Display’.
Go to Graphics Settings: Click on ‘Graphics’ under “Related settings”.
Select App Type: Choose either “Desktop app” for non-Store apps or “Microsoft Store app” for those downloaded from the Store, using “Add an app” function.
Browse for the Application: Click ‘Browse’ to locate the application.
Access Options: Click on the ‘Options’ button.
Choose the GPU: Specify which GPU the app will utilize:
- Let Windows Decide: Automatic selection of the GPU.
- Power Saving: Preference for the lowest power-consuming option.
- High Performance: Use of the most powerful GPU available.
Click Save: Confirm the settings by clicking the ‘Save’ button.

Upon completion of these adjustments, the specified GPU will be used the next time the app is launched. To configure additional apps, repeat the procedure as necessary.

Note that preferences set through the Windows Graphics settings will take precedence over similar settings in NVIDIA or AMD control panels, which can still be used for further optimization.

FAQs about Changing the Default GPU on Windows 11

How can I set a specific GPU for an application?

Open Settings > System > Display > Graphics, add your application, and choose your GPU preference. Remember to restart the app for changes to take effect.

Is it possible to enforce a game to always use my high-performance GPU?

Yes, by selecting the game and setting it to High Performance in Graphics settings. Enable Optimizations for windowed games for additional improvements.

Will these settings override the configurations in NVIDIA or AMD control panels?

Indeed, Windows 11 GPU preferences take precedence; however, the control panels can still be utilized for other features like refresh rates and anti-aliasing.

How do I remove a custom GPU setting for an application?

Navigate to the Graphics settings, select the application in question, and then click Reset or Remove in older versions.

Do the steps vary between different versions of Windows 11?

Yes, Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 feature a more streamlined process for app addition compared to earlier versions.

Can an application ignore my GPU assignment?

Yes, some applications, particularly games, may have their own settings that override Windows 11 preferences. Check the app’s internal settings if issues arise.

Will adjusting these settings help conserve battery on laptops?

Absolutely! By selecting the Power Saving option for less demanding applications, users can significantly reduce power consumption, leading to longer battery life.

Update: This guide has been revised to include a video tutorial for following these instructions successfully.

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