Wondering if you can add more screens to your computer because your main graphics card doesn’t have enough ports? You’re probably thinking about using the onboard graphics along with your main graphics card. This is a smart move for people who need more screens for work, playing games, or watching videos. In this guide, we’re going to talk about why using both your onboard and main graphics together is a good idea, how to check if your computer can do it, and how to set it up in Windows 11.
Also see: Force App or Game to Use Nvidia GPU or Integrated Graphics
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Why use both onboard and dedicated graphics?
The main reason to use both types of graphics is to connect more monitors. This is handy if your main graphics card can’t connect too many monitors or if you want to use the onboard graphics for simple tasks.
Using both graphics systems can make your computer run better. For example, let the main graphics card handle tough tasks like games or video editing, and let the onboard graphics deal with everyday stuff.
Another plus is saving energy. Onboard graphics don’t use as much power, which can cut down on electricity use. This could also make your computer quieter since the main graphics card might not need to work as hard for simple tasks.
Also, having two graphics options means you have a backup if one fails. And it gives you more ways to connect different screens and devices.
Might be useful: Check Graphics Card on Windows 11/10 (NVIDIA, AMD or Intel)
Checking if your hardware supports running both graphics systems at the same time
Before adding more screens or changing settings, make sure your computer can use both graphics systems at once. Here’s how:
Motherboard manual
First, look at your motherboard’s manual. It’s full of details about what your motherboard can do, including using both onboard and main graphics together.
Inspect the motherboard
Check out your motherboard. If it has ports for screens (like HDMI, DVI, or VGA), it means it can use onboard graphics. This shows your CPU and motherboard can handle displaying stuff without needing a main graphics card.
Check the CPU
Not all CPUs have built-in graphics. Make sure yours does. You can find this info on the CPU maker’s website.
BIOS/UEFI settings
Sometimes, using both graphics systems isn’t turned on automatically. You’ll need to go into the BIOS/UEFI settings to check. Look for options named “IGPU Multi-Monitor,” “Integrated Graphics,” or something like that, and turn it on.
Operating system compatibility
Make sure your operating system, like Windows 11, can handle multiple screens. Most new ones can, but it’s good to double-check.
If you’re not sure about any of this, you can always look up your motherboard online or ask in forums to get more help.
Linked issue: Second monitor not detected Intel HD Graphics Windows 11/10
Setting up onboard and dedicated graphics in Windows 11
To get both your onboard graphics and main graphics card working together, do this:
- Enter BIOS/UEFI settings:
- Restart your computer.
- Press the key to get into BIOS/UEFI settings (it’s usually F2, F10, DEL, or ESC, but depends on your computer).
- Find the graphics settings. Look for options like “IGPU Multi-Monitor,” “Integrated Graphics,” or something similar.
- Turn on the onboard graphics along with the main GPU. Save and exit BIOS/UEFI.
- Connect the monitors:
- Hook up your main monitor to the main graphics card.
- Connect the second monitor to the onboard graphics port on the motherboard. The type of port you use (HDMI, VGA, DVI, or DisplayPort) depends on your motherboard.
- Install or update drivers:
- Make sure you have the newest drivers for both your onboard graphics (from the CPU or motherboard maker) and your main graphics card.
- Download them from the makers’ websites and follow their setup guides.
- Configure Display Settings in Windows 11:
- Right-click on your desktop and pick “Display settings.”
- Both screens should show up here. If not, click “Detect” to find the second screen.
- Arrange the screens by dragging the numbered boxes so they match how your screens are set up.
- Choose which screen is your main one.
- Change the resolution and orientation for each screen as needed.
- Assign applications to specific GPUs (Optional):
- In Windows 11, you can tell certain apps which GPU to use.
- Go to Settings > System > Display > Graphics.
- Pick an app and click “Options.” Here, you can choose which GPU the app should use.
- Testing:
- Try out your setup by using different apps on each screen. Watch how well it works and if it’s stable.
- If something’s not right, double-check your connections, settings, and driver setups.
Related problem: Game Stuttering and Lag on Dual Monitor (Fix)
Some common issues in dual graphics setups
Monitors not detected
If your computer doesn’t see one or both screens, check the cables first. Make sure they’re plugged in right. If all looks good, try turning everything off and unplugging for a minute, then start it all up again. If it still doesn’t work, try updating or reinstalling the drivers for both graphics systems.
Similar issue: Intel HD Graphics: This computer does not meet the minimum
BIOS/UEFI settings problems
Having trouble with the BIOS/UEFI settings? Your motherboard’s manual has the answers. It tells you exactly how to set things up for your specific computer. If the manual doesn’t help, try the motherboard maker’s customer support or online forums.
Dealing with performance issues
Is your computer running slow? First, check the power settings in Windows and make sure they’re on “High performance.” Then, adjust your main graphics card’s settings for better performance. And don’t forget about cooling; too much heat can slow things down.
Software and application compatibility
Some old apps might not work well with two graphics systems. Trying them in compatibility mode or setting them to use a specific GPU in Windows settings can help.
Resolving display resolution or quality issues
If your screens look off, play with the display settings for each screen in Windows. This means changing the resolution to fit what each screen can do. Also, using better cables can help with signal quality, especially for high resolutions.
Final thoughts
Not every computer can run both onboard and main graphics at the same time. It mostly depends on your motherboard, CPU, and sometimes the operating system. If you’re thinking about setting up a dual graphics system, make sure to check if your hardware supports it first. This guide tries to make things simpler, but every computer is a bit different. If you run into trouble, asking for help on forums like Reddit can be a great way to find solutions.
