You can identify the graphics card or integrated GPU in a Windows 10 PC with Task Manager, Device Manager, or the DirectX Diagnostic Tool. You do not need to install a hardware-detection utility for this basic information.
Check the GPU in Task Manager
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- If necessary, expand Task Manager to its detailed view.
- Open the Performance tab.
- Select the GPU entry on the left. Windows displays the GPU name along with usage and memory information.
Use Device Manager
Right-click Start, choose Device Manager, and expand Display adapters. A laptop may show two entries—for example, integrated graphics plus a discrete NVIDIA or AMD GPU. That is normal on systems with switchable graphics.
Use DirectX Diagnostic Tool
Press Windows + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter. The Display or Render tabs can show the graphics device and driver information. This can be useful when you are troubleshooting a game or application that asks for GPU details.
If Windows shows “Microsoft Basic Display Adapter”
That usually means Windows is using a generic display driver rather than identifying the full graphics hardware with its normal driver. Check Windows Update and the PC or GPU manufacturer’s official support site for the appropriate driver.
If you are checking the GPU to determine whether software will run, compare the exact GPU model, available graphics memory, driver support, and required DirectX features with the application’s requirements rather than relying on the brand name alone.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
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