Did you previously buy an APU instead of CPU+GPU to build your budget-friendly gaming PC?

Whats the Difference Between APU and GPU?

Meanwhile, a GPU(Graphics Processing Unit) is a specialized processor designed for accelerated graphics rendering.

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Its the basic definition difference between the two SoC.

Lets take a look at the technical differences.

APUs and GPUs are built differently for different purposes.

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GPUs are much more complex and capable of rendering intense graphical tasks.

It comes with onboard video memory for frame buffers.

Its really hard to summarize all the nit bits about iGPU vs dGPU.

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So, verify to check out our in-depth discussion onintegrated graphics vs dedicated graphicsto know all about it.

Bear in mind, there are certain noteworthydifferences between an APU and a CPU.

Do APUs & Dedicated GPUs Work Together?

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Yes, APU and GPU can work together.

It delivers stunning visuals at a performance level that cant be achieved with either unit alone.

If you mean whether you could build an APU+GPU setup, then the answer isyes.

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Suppose you have an AMD A10-7850K APU and Radeon R7 250 discrete graphics card.

Both Crossfire and Radeon Dual Graphics are AMD platform exclusive.

But, not all APUs and AMD GPUs support such features.

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Furthermore, AMD has stopped supporting Crossfire between their APUs and dGPUs.

Not to mention the severe lack of optimization for such configs.

Below, Ive discussed both methods in great detail.

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Keep in mind that only compatible 3D applications can utilize a multi-GPU system.

Some unsupported apps might not run at all in such a configuration.

you could also enable theShow AMD Crossfire Logotoggle.

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To use this feature, you must enable certain options from the BIOS.

Can I Use Nvidia GPU with AMD APU?

Its an either or situation.

But youll have to use either the Nvidia GPU or the built-in iGPU to play those games.

Frequently Asked Question

Is an APU or GPU good for gaming?

A dedicated GPU is better for gaming than an APU.

Does APU affect GPU performance?

Are APUs faster than GPUs?

No, current discrete graphics cards are way faster than APUs.

This pretty much summarizes the topic on hand.

Hopefully, this write-up has cleared out any confusion you had about using an APU+GPU PC setup.

If theres still any question lingering on your mind, spill the beans in the comment section below.