What is a discrete graphics card in a laptop: advantages and disadvantages of a discrete graphics card

A laptop is one of the most common devices that almost every modern person has. A huge number of users prefer their traditional desktop computers. This is explained by the fact that the laptop is more mobile, and in terms of its technical characteristics practically does not concede to a PC.

But not every owner of such a device has an idea of ​​all its components, which allow you to use many functions. For example, what is a discrete graphics card and how does it differ from other types? You will learn about all this in this article.

Types of video cards in a laptop

There are several types of video cards that can be equipped with laptops. Each of them has its own characteristics, which you should definitely be aware of when choosing a device for certain purposes.

Consider the types of these elements:

1. Integrated - such a card is built into the device’s motherboard or located in the processor. It is used during normal operation, which does not require special expenditures of energy and power of the laptop. Such a card does not have its own video memory.
2. Discrete - such a video card can be either built-in or removable. Its difference lies in the presence of its own video memory and some other features.
3. External - a card connected separately and executed in a separate case.

In modern laptops, there are usually two types of cards: integrated and discrete. The first is used during simple tasks, and the second is activated when games and other more “powerful” applications are launched.

What is a discrete graphics card?

So what exactly is a discrete graphics card? This is such a card that practically does not use the resources of the laptop, it only receives all the necessary data from it. It is most often performed in a separate case and significantly improves productivity, and also guarantees excellent image quality. It has a graphics adapter with special individual processors, which makes it even more useful when using a laptop.

Attention! The best option is a laptop model that has two types of cards. This is explained by the fact that at first only an integrated card is used, and then, if necessary, a discrete one is also connected. Thus, the most acceptable balance is achieved between productivity and energy consumption.

Like any other card, a discrete one has its own advantages and disadvantages, which should be taken into account when choosing a laptop or a separate video card. Let's consider them in more detail.

Advantages and disadvantages of a discrete graphics card

The discrete and integrated cards differ on one point: one has excellent performance, but quite energy-consuming, the second, on the contrary, consumes less energy, but does not differ at a good level performance.

The main advantages of a discrete graphics card are:

• the ability to upgrade to the latest, most powerful version;
• ability to play any media files in excellent quality;
• the ability to use multiple monitors at once;
• increase the computing power of the device.

Of the minuses, one can single out the rather high cost of such a video adapter, as well as extremely high energy costs. In the second case, you should be careful - too high a level of energy consumption can lead to strong heating of the laptop, which will negatively affect its future work.

How to switch to a discrete graphics card

Switching from an integrated card to a discrete card should happen automatically as soon as the operating system of the device will understand that this is necessary and the built-in element can no longer cope with the given load.

But this does not always happen. The system is not perfect, therefore errors periodically occur that can significantly spoil the impression of using a laptop. What to do in this case, and is it possible to switch from one card to another independently?

There are several ways to do this: by using the firmware (it is installed simultaneously with the necessary drivers), through Windows tools or through UEFL / BIOS. The procedures for such a switch are not too complicated, so even a beginner who does not have in-depth knowledge of the field of technology can cope with the task. Detailed instructions are easy to find on the Internet.

It is also necessary to consider the model of your laptop and manufacturer, as there may be minor differences in the systems.

Now you know what a discrete graphics card for a laptop is, why it is needed and whether it is possible to switch between a discrete and an integrated card yourself without waiting for an automatic transition. With this knowledge, you can choose for yourself the perfect laptop that can play any, even the most “heavy” applications and will be characterized by a high level of performance. This means that you will be able to watch videos in the highest quality, as well as play any games without violating the graphics and other important parameters.