In older PCs, things like graphics and even sound had to be managed by an expansion card instead of a CPU for quite a long time. A graphics processing unit (GPU) is a processor dedicated solely to graphics processing operations. One of the main functions of the GPU is to lighten the load on the central processing unit (CPU), especially when running a graphics-intensive game or application.
Most Intel CPUs come with integrated graphics inside. However, when a specific CPU model ends with the letter “f” it will not support integrated graphics. It is also good to know that the 9th generation Intel processors were made with 0 integrated graphics support at all.
Integrated graphics or “IGPU” allow your computer to run without a graphics card, but this technology is not available on all CPUs. It can help your computer run without a graphics card. Continue reading to learn more!
What Are Integrated Graphics?
A GPU incorporated into the processor is referred to as integrated graphics. Integrated graphics hardware does not use a separate graphics/video memory bank. Instead, the GPU makes use of shared system memory with the CPU.
They’re now more than adequate for basic computing, including casual gaming and 4K movie viewing, although they still fall short in some areas. It’s smaller, uses less energy, and costs less than a specialized graphics card. Integrated graphics used to have a terrible stigma, but they’ve come a long way in recent years.
Integrated Graphics Vs Dedicated Graphics
A GPU incorporated into the processor is referred to as integrated graphics. Integrated graphics hardware does not use a separate graphics/video memory bank. Instead, the GPU makes use of shared system memory with the CPU.
As integrated graphics is embedded into the processor, it often consumes less power and generates less heat, resulting in longer battery life. Processors with integrated graphics are most typically seen in devices with smaller form factors, such as laptops and Intel® NUCs.
Discrete graphics refers to a GPU that is independent of the processor. Discrete graphics have their own memory that is separate from the CPU. Because discrete graphics is distinct from the CPU chip, it consumes more power and produces a lot more heat.
However, because discrete graphics have their own memory and power source, they outperform integrated graphics. Desktop PCs are the most popular place to find discrete graphics cards. However, discrete graphics cards can also be found on laptops and tiny form-factor PCs.
Should You Buy A CPU With Integrated Graphics?
CPUs with built-in graphics aren’t for everyone. These devices are only appropriate for people who regularly use a PC for basic computing tasks such as watching videos, working, streaming, and so on. For example, if you don’t intend to play games, a CPU with integrated graphics will most likely suffice.
CPUs with integrated graphics are less expensive than discrete GPUs, but they are well worth it. While integrated graphics are acceptable for online browsing and games, professional applications such as video editing and graphics rendering will necessitate the use of a standalone graphics card.
Nonetheless, they are perfect for everyday use. If you solely want to use your computer for writing and web browsing, an integrated GPU may be a smart alternative.
Those who are more in it for playing PC games will require a specialized graphics card along with integrated graphics, to get the most out of their PCs. Dedicated graphics cards are normally more expensive but buying one with integrated graphics can save you money. It will, however, only be appropriate for simple games.
The incorporation of the GPU inside the CPU simplifies power management. Although the GPU has its own power supply, the integrated graphics processor can share the CPU’s power supply. Because the entire circuitry consumes less power, this technique is ideal for battery-powered gadgets. So, certainly, a CPU with a built-in graphics card is worthwhile.
So, depending on what you need from your PC, you can decide if a CPU with integrated graphics is worth your while.
How To Check If Your CPU Has Integrated Graphics?
Plug your display port into the back of your motherboard to see if your CPU has integrated graphics. If your computer turns on, your CPU has integrated graphics; if it does not, you do not. Also, AMD CPUs with the letter “G” has integrated graphics, whereas Intel CPUs with the letter “f” do not.
Even though most CPUs have integrated graphics, there are certain exceptions that do not follow the principles above, and there are some performance disparities depending on which IGPU you wish to buy.
Specifications can also be found on the manufacturer’s website. This should indicate whether the CPU has integrated graphics and, if so, what type it has.
Do You Still Need A GPU With Integrated Graphics?
Integrated graphics are built into the CPU and are enough for basic operations such as web browsing and video playback. However, if you intend to conduct any gaming or other resource-intensive activities, you should invest in a dedicated GPU. The primary reason for this is that a CPU lacks the same degree of power as a GPU.
A CPU may have four or eight cores, whereas a GPU may have thousands. That is why GPUs excel at handling enormous volumes of data at once. They’re intended for high-processing-power applications like video rendering and gaming.
If you try to do resource-intensive activities on a PC with integrated graphics, you’ll likely see a significant drop in performance. In some cases, your PC might even crash. So, if you’re looking to do anything other than basic tasks on your PC, you’ll need to get a dedicated GPU.
Conclusion
Many CPUs feature integrated graphics, but not all. If you’re designing a gaming PC on a budget, this is an important factor to consider. You may be able to save money on a dedicated graphics card if your CPU includes integrated graphics.
Not all games, however, will run well on integrated graphics, and you may need to upgrade your CPU or add a dedicated graphics card to get the most out of modern titles. Finally, it is determined by your budget and requirements.
