The easiest way to update GPU drivers is through the maker’s own app: the Nvidia App for Nvidia cards, or AMD Adrenalin for AMD cards. Open it, check for updates, and install. You can also download the driver for your exact model from the Nvidia or AMD website, which is best when you want a specific version.
- The Nvidia App and AMD Adrenalin are the easiest routes.
- Manual downloads let you pick the exact driver for your model.
- Device Manager works, but Windows may install an older driver.
- Know your GPU model first.
Before You Start: Know Your GPU
You need your card’s exact name for a manual download, and to know whether to use the Nvidia or AMD tool. If you’re not sure, check what GPU you have first, it takes a few seconds in Task Manager.
Method 1: Use the Nvidia App or AMD Adrenalin
For Nvidia, install the free Nvidia App, open the Drivers tab, and click Download when an update appears. For AMD, open AMD Adrenalin Software, click Check for updates, and install what it finds. Both apps manage future updates for you.
Method 2: Download the Driver Manually
- Go to the maker’s driver page: Nvidia’s drivers page or AMD’s support page.
- Search for your GPU by product name and series.
- Download the latest driver. For Nvidia, that’s usually the Game Ready Driver.
- Run the file and pick your install options, then click Install.
- Restart your PC when it finishes.
AMD also offers an auto-detect and install tool that works out your card for you, which is handy if you’d rather not search for it.
Method 3: Use Device Manager
- Open Device Manager from the Start menu.
- Expand Display adapters and double-click your GPU.
- Open the Driver tab and click Update Driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers.
Note: this is the weakest option. Windows Update tends to install generic, older GPU drivers without game-specific optimizations, so you’re usually better off getting the driver straight from Nvidia or AMD. Microsoft’s GPU guide covers where your graphics info lives in Windows.
What If Updating Doesn’t Help?
An outdated or corrupt driver is a common cause of stutter or crashes, which is why it’s worth updating when a game misbehaves. It’s also a frequent reason a card goes missing, so if your GPU vanished after an update, see why a GPU is not showing in Task Manager. And if you’re seeing high usage with poor performance, 100% GPU usage with low FPS is often a driver problem too.
Keeping drivers current is also part of keeping a card healthy, as covered in how long GPUs last.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I update my Nvidia GPU driver?
Install the Nvidia App, open the Drivers tab, and click Download when an update is available. You can also download it manually from Nvidia’s drivers page.
How do I update my AMD GPU driver?
Open AMD Adrenalin Software, click Check for updates, and install. Or download the driver for your model from AMD’s support page.
Is it safe to update GPU drivers through Windows Update?
It’s safe, but the driver is often older and less optimized for games. Getting it from Nvidia or AMD is usually better.
Where do I download GPU drivers?
From the maker’s website: nvidia.com for Nvidia cards and amd.com for AMD cards. Avoid third-party driver download sites.
