If you’ve been shopping around for a new laptop, then you’ll likely have come across the term iGPU.
But what actually is an iGPU and how does it differ from a GPU or even a CPU? Do you really need to factor in a computer’s iGPU when making the purchase?
We explain everything you need to know about iGPUs below. Once you’re finished here, make sure you visit our best laptops roundup where we’ve listed the top PCs we’ve reviewed in the past year.
For more information on PC components, our GPU and CPU explainers have you covered.
What is an iGPU?
iGPU stands for integrated graphics processing unit, and refers to a graphics chip that is built within a processor alongside the CPU, rather than being an independent component.
The vast majority of processors, from the likes of AMD and Intel, will have an iGPU, as it is required for your PC to be able to display any kind of image (even your Windows home screen) in the case your system does not have a discrete GPU.
You might be wondering what a discrete GPU is and how it differs from an iGPU. Unlike an iGPU, a dGPU is a dedicated graphics chip that can be found inside powerful laptops (such as gaming laptops) and graphics cards. A dGPU is generally significantly more powerful than an iGPU, because there’s more space for additional cores and transistors to enhance the frequency, while also drawing more power.
How does an iGPU work?
Rather than having its own, an iGPU will share system memory with the CPU and will handle tasks such as displaying images and running basic tasks too. iGPUs generally tend to consume less power than a standalone GPU would, which makes it more of an efficient but also cost-effective alternative. That’s why you’ll typically see iGPUs in more affordable devices.
iGPU vs dGPU: What’s the difference?
DGPU, which stands for discrete graphics processing unit, is a standalone component that’s found inside the graphics card. Unlike an iGPU which shares its memory with the CPU, a dGPU has its own built-in memory and cooling system. Computers with a dGPU will, generally speaking, boast a superior graphics performance to one with just an iGPU present. That’s why many of the best gaming laptops are equipped with a dGPU rather than an iGPU.
Of course, many new iGPUs are much more capable than before, and can even handle gaming. For example, the recently announced Acer Predator Atlas will run on Intel’s G3 and G3 Extreme chips which support Intel’s Arc B390 iGPU. That’s the same beefy iGPU that’s found in the Samsung Book 6 Pro which saw a Geekbench single core score of 2876 and a multi-core score of a whopping 16934.
What can you do with an iGPU?
An iGPU isn’t designed to provide raw power or fast speeds. Instead, an iGPU handles more basic tasks such as visual processing, video playback and controlling applications. Doing so will free up your GPU resources to handle more intense tasks.
Should you disable your iGPU?
You may feel that an iGPU isn’t necessary, especially if you have other dedicated components like a dGPU. However, we’d advise that keeping your iGPU enabled is a good idea. Not only does keeping your iGPU enabled keep things running smoothly and power-efficient, but it also acts as a backup in case your dGPU fails.
Summary
An iGPU is built-in to processors like the Intel Core Ultra 200H/HX series and helps keep your PC running efficiently and smoothly, while handling basic yet important tasks such as displaying images and running certain applications. It also works as a backup, should your GPU fail.
Stephan is the sports journalist for the Maple Grove Report.
