Integrated or dedicated GPUs!
Are these two types of graphics processing units confusing you so much?
Integrated GPU is enough when gaming isnt your primary concern.
But a dedicated GPU is like a basic need if youre a heavy gamer.
However, dont get confused about these graphics while buying a new PC!
Because I will clarify the core differences between these two GPU segments in this article.
Just read until you reach the finish line.
So, lets get in!
What is an Integrated Graphics?
The Integrated GPU shares the CPUs same silicon die as its integrated within the CPU.
This graphic is also known as iGPU, and its not powerful because of its power efficiency.
Onboard GPUs dont have their own VRAM and processor to handle heavy workloads.
It uses the systems1% to 3%RAM and CPU processing power.
Intel and AMD offer processors with iGPU on them.
Youll see Intel UHD Graphics in Intel processors, but for AMD CPUs, youll see AMD Vega Graphics.
However, AMD named their integrated graphics-based processors APU.
Though the naming might sound terrible, it is a bang for the buck.
The processor with integrated graphics can handle both CPU and GPU-based work.
What is a Dedicated Graphics Card?
A dedicated GPU is absolutely separate from the CPU.
It has its own processor for rendering graphics and VRAM.
As a result, this GPU doesnt depend on the CPUs processing power and share RAM.
Its not power efficient like the iGPU, and these are expensive too.
Youll find dedicated GPUs, mostly on laptops and desktops.
A dedicated GPU helps to free the CPU from processing more GPU-centric data.
Thats why you wont face frame drops if youre playing high graphics demanding AAA-titled games.
In laptops, dedicated GPUs get soldered in the motherboards PCB, and there is no option to upgrade.
But this scenario is reversed for the desktop graphics card.
There is a PCIe slot for installing desktop-grade GPUs in the motherboards.
Moreover, you’ve got the option to upgrade the card anytime to get better performance.
Differences Between Integrated vs Dedicated GPU
The main distinction between integrated and dedicated GPU is the performance.
The dedicated one is more powerful and consumes more power than the integrated one.
Due to having its own processor and VRAM to render graphics, the dGPUs are faster and more powerful.
For that, the iGPUs are weak and cant handle heavy graphics data.
And the same thing goes for the RAM segment too.
And youll find this tiny amount of shared VRAM useless if youre a heavy gamer.
Now, lets look at the differences between these graphics in a table.
Butnot all CPUs have integrated graphics on them.
So, before buying one, ensure your CPU has iGPU in it by checking the model name.
The Intel processors model names withFin the last dont have integrated graphics.
But all Ryzen mobile APUs have iGPUs in them.
And double-check to go for Ryzen desktop APUs with aGin the last of the model name for integrated graphics.
These are powerful dedicated graphics by Intel & AMD for laptop platforms.
iGPU vs dGPU Which is better?
Discrete graphics is crucial If your priority is gaming, 3D modeling, or GPU-intensive work.
So, which graphics option is the best?
My super-tech sense suggests you should go for the dedicated GPU, at least for the entry-level one.
Which wont dry your wallet greatly, and still give you enough room to do all sorts of things.
So, in the end, the winner of this graphics battle is Mr.
But still, there are things to consider before giving the winner tag to the dGPU.
Let me get that to you now.
Check out our separate post onhow to Benchmark your Graphics Card?
Who Needs a Dedicated Graphics Card?
You must consider two factors to understand who exactly needs discrete graphics.
The facts are using scenario and budget.
The budget part comes as the second factor.
Those who dont worry about the wallet to buy a gaming rig can buy a top-tier-level graphics card.
So, dedicated graphics cards are like the basic needs of gamers and professionals.
Below are the main consumers who need dedicated graphics:
1.
Hardcore gamers play mostly play AAA-titled games and stream a lot.
For them, getting a high-end GPU is like injecting more adrenaline.
Justspend$700or above to buy a decent gaming rigthat will play all 1080p games.
A gaming laptop with the same specs as a desktop will cost more.
But with the extra amount of money, youll get portability.
With a moderate budget, you’ve got the option to still buy a gaming laptop.
Youll find a laptop with a dedicated GPU to play mid-level games for just under $700.
Professionals Who Do Graphics-related Works
Not only gamers but also graphics work-related professionals use graphics cards.
Animation makers, 3D modelers, or video renderers require powerful cards to accomplish their work more quickly.
A powerful GPU card also requires a powerful CPU with at least 16 GB or 32 GB of RAM.
Who Needs Integrated Graphics Only?
CPU makers are more focused on making their processors more powerful and power efficient at the same time.
Along with the clock speed, the integrated graphics also provide a top-notch performance.
So, the latest generation CPUs offer iGPUs in the same silicon die that can play moderate games.
Now, let me show you who should go for integrated graphics only.
Here are use case scenarios that only require iGPU:
1.
Integrated graphics can handle these sorts of tasks without any issues.
However, modern iGPUs are powerful enough to handle video editing.
As I stated earlier, modern CPUs do come with powerful iGPU.
Because integrated GPUs share the system RAM to work as a shared GPU memory.
That means more RAM will make the iGPU more powerful.
With the$250-$400budget, its possible to build an entry-level gaming rig.
For a better gameplay experience, you must lower the game options.
Mid-Level Gamers Who Need a Laptop Under Tight Budget
Gaming is tough on a laptop without a dedicated GPU.
Thats because laptop CPUs arent as powerful as desktop ones if both are the same model.
iGPUs mostly relied on CPU power.
I suggest you go forAMD 6000series APU orIntel 13th GenCPU-based laptop.
AMDs6000 series RX 680MiGPU is a beast among all.
But to get one, you must spend a little more.
I bet I have cleared up your confusion about choosing the right graphics card by giving all the scenarios.
But pick the right CPU and GPU wisely.
FAQs
Can I combine both iGPU and dedicated GPU for better performance?
No cant combine both of these GPUs to boost graphics performance.
However, if you managed to do that, the iGPU can keep up with the dGPU.
Which one provides better gaming performance integrated or discrete graphics?
Discrete or dedicated graphics will deliver top-class performance than the integrated ones.
But you’re able to play some mid-level games with iGPU by lowering gameplay prefs.
What is the benefit of dedicated graphics over the integrated GPU?
Integrated graphics dont have any separate graphics processing unit and VRAM.
But dedicated GPUs consist of a powerful graphics rendering processor and VRAM.
Plus, dedicated GPUs have their own cooling system to cool down the processor.
It stands still and fights against all sorts of rendering missions.
Thats why integrated and dedicated graphics are essential, but each has its own working capability.
The main goal of this article is to let you know the in-depth comparison of these graphics.
And I believe I have given all to clear up things regarding iGPU vs. dedicated GPU.
Feel free to knock for more info.
See you at the next one.
Till then, let the GPU bring a smile to your face!
