GPU drivers are incredibly important to have installed and up to date, to ensure your graphics cards work as intended and you avoid encountering issues in PC games. A GPU driver is essentially software that handles communication between Windows 10, games and applications, and the graphics card component. It's very important.
Luckily, regardless as to whether you're an NVIDIA fan or on team red with AMD, it's easy to install drivers with a new GPU and keep them updated.
AMD GPU drivers
AMD uses the new Radeon Software to manage drivers, GPU settings, and game-specific options. Downloading and installing the software is straightforward, and if you're not sure of the GPU you have, AMD offers an auto-detect utility that can point you in the correct direction.
Checking for updates within Radeon Software can be achieved by opening up the suite and clicking on the update button in the lower left-hand corner of the window. The software will periodically check for updates and alert you with a notification, which can serve as a shortcut to the update process.
NVIDIA GPU drivers
NVIDIA's current software package is a strange one. Like AMD, the company has rolled out an updated suite that looks modern and fresh but bundles it with the older settings app, so you have two places to manipulate settings. Installing the driver can be achieved by heading to the NVIDIA website and either downloading the detector tool or specifying the GPU you have installed.
To check for updates, you'll need to launch the GeForce Experience app, since the traditional settings area does not sport this feature. With the GeForce Experience window open, choose the Drivers tab at the top and hit "check for updates." If an update is available it'll be displayed below with a button to install.
Related resources
- Tracking GPU performance in Windows 10
- Don't buy a GPU unless you have to
- Best GPU deals
- Best GPUs for Crypto Mining
- How to choose a GPU for 1080, 1440, and 4K
- Everything you need to know about the GPU
- Ultimate GPU buyer's guide
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
These great Thunderbolt 3 docks turn your laptop into a desktop
Looking to make the most of your super-fast Thunderbolt 3 connection? The CalDigit TS3 Plus is our top pick thanks to plenty of ports and solid construction, but there are a bunch of other options that might better suit your needs.
If you want the best gaming laptop, you want a Razer Blade 15 Advanced
The Razer Blade 15 is an impressive piece of engineering, and it had the performance hardware available to handle any modern game at a smooth framerate. If it's not quite what you're looking for, there are plenty of alternatives collected here.
Maingear Vector review: The only thing understated is its looks
The Maingear Vector offers plenty of gaming power at a great price. What's more, it looks good while doing it. Here's a deep dive into how the Vector stacks up to the competition.
These are the best PC sticks for when you're on the move
Instant computer, just add a screen! That’s the general idea of the ultra-portable PC Compute Sticks, but it can be hard to know which one you want. Relax, we’ve got you covered.
