Having updated GPU drivers is crucial for maximizing the gaming and visual capabilities of your computer. Outdated drivers can lead to system crashes, low frame rates, or the inability to run the newest AAA titles.

In this blog, you will find out how to update GPU drivers using various methods, when it is necessary to update them, and how to use best practices so you won't have issues. Whether you are a gamer or a performance user, this guide will allow you to optimize your graphics drivers easily.

What Are GPU Drivers?

GPU drivers are software that acts as an intermediary between your operating system and your graphics card (hardware). They enable your PC to use the graphics processing unit in the best manner possible, enabling it to be supported by games, programs, and graphics rendering engines.

● GPU Hardware: Physical device installed in your PC.

● GPU Software (Drivers): Software that tells your OS how to use that hardware.

Regular updates can introduce significant improvements, particularly when there are new game titles or new features. Due to evolving gaming engines and graphics APIs, developers typically tune for performance against driver compatibility. Updating drivers is thus imperative.

When and Why Update GPU Drivers?

You need to update GPU drivers when:

● Your system crashes continuously or has blue screens.

● Your screen is flickering or showing artifacts when gaming.

● New games do not release or perform very badly.

● Graphics-intensive programs experience lag or input lag.

Advantages of Updating Graphics Drivers

● Bug fixes and patches for stability.

● Performance tuning and FPS boosts.

● Support for fresh game titles.

Improved Support for High Refresh Rate Monitors and 4K/8K Displays

Cutting-edge games like Cyberpunk 2077 or Elden Ring usually need the newest drivers to perform at their best. In professional eSports, even a small FPS boost can affect your game. Companies like NVIDIA and AMD tend to release Game Ready Drivers for upcoming releases.

How to Find Your Current GPU Driver Version?

For Windows Users

● Press Win + X and choose Device Manager.

● Expand the section Display adapters.

● Right-click your GPU and choose Properties.

● In the Driver tab, check the Driver Version.

Alternate Tools

● NVIDIA Control Panel → Help → System Information

● AMD Radeon Software → Settings → System → Driver Version

Following these steps helps to check whether you're running older drivers or have the most current version supported by your system.

Step-by-Step: Updating GPU Drivers

Via Windows Update

● Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

● Press Check for updates.

● Windows will automatically search and install generic drivers.

While simple, this method may not always install the latest release optimized for gaming. Improved performance can be achieved from drivers provided by the manufacturer.

Manually from the Manufacturer's Site

NVIDIA GeForce Experience

● Download from GeForce.com

● Install and launch the application.

● Drivers > Click Check for updates.

● Download and install the latest recommended version.

AMD Radeon Software

● Download from the website of AMD.

● Execute Radeon Software.

● Proceed to the Updates tab.

● Click Check for Updates and follow the prompts.

This method ensures you're downloading the most recent version tailored to your GPU model and your gaming performance needs.

Third-Party Tools (Optional)

● Driver Booster

● Driver Easy

These tools simplify things by scanning your system and suggesting compatible updates. But always cross-check driver sources to avoid getting malware or facing incompatibility.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting Tricks

In case an update fails:

Rollback Drivers

● Device Manager → Right-click GPU → Properties → Driver → Roll Back Driver

Safe Mode & Clean Install

● Boot into Safe Mode.

● Uninstall existing drivers using Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU).

● Reinstall existing drivers.

Black Screen or Flickering

● Reset display settings using Win + Ctrl + Shift + B

Best Practices After Updating GPU Drivers

Restart Your System

Firstly, restart your system so the new drivers can take effect properly.

Benchmark Performance

Use tools like 3DMark, Heaven Benchmark, or MSI Afterburner to confirm FPS improvements and thermal behavior.

Update Related Software

● Ensure Latest Version: Make sure DirectX, Visual C++ Redistributables, and game launchers are current.

● Enable Game Mode in Windows: Privileges GPU utilization during gaming.

● Check In-Game Graphics Settings: Sometimes, driver updates enable more features or restore settings.

Wrap Up

Updating your graphics drivers regularly is essential for unlocking the full potential of your gaming rig. Whether you're experiencing crashes, low FPS, or just want smoother gameplay, learning how to update GPU drivers ensures your system stays optimized for the latest games and features. From manual updates to using dedicated software, the right method can make a big difference in performance and stability.

Want more expert gaming PC tips and build guides?

Head over to the TechnoidGamingPC Blog for in-depth guides on updating drivers, optimizing your setup, and getting the most out of your hardware.

FAQs

1. How often do I have to update my GPU drivers?

Update whenever there is a new release of a game or if you're having issues. Typically, check monthly.

2. Will driver updates delete my games or settings?

No, not your game files. Some driver updates will set the default graphics settings.

3. Can I roll back to an earlier driver version?

Yes. Roll back with Device Manager or manually install an older version.

4. Are driver updaters safe?

Most of them are, but use highly rated programs and beware of untrusted programs.

5. Do Mac users need to update GPU drivers?

Mac drivers are typically updated by system updates. Drivers are rarely updated manually unless an external GPU is being utilized.