Do you want to know how a GPU and APU work together? The APU chip, often known as the “Accelerated Processing Unit,” is a component of your motherboard’s circuit board. In 2011, AMD released the first APU, and in 2012, the second generation. High-definition video, integrated graphics, high-performance computing, and fast frame rates are all features of the APU.
The term “GPU” refers to a chip used to handle graphics data, including video, 3D rendering, and textures. High-resolution gaming is made possible by it; typical computer tasks like web browsing, using office programs, or viewing movies can be completed without a GPU.
What Is the Distinction Between an APU and a GPU?
APUs are commonly referred to as microprocessors or general-purpose processors. These APUs, however, also support the GPU to improve integrated graphics. So, both serve similar purposes, but which is more powerful? Here are some important distinctions between APUs and GPUs:
| APU | GPU |
| Cheaper to build a PC as compared to GPU. | Expensive to build a PC with GPU. |
| Supports the GPU in rendering. | Renders the 3D images. |
| Also known as Fusion or Microprocessors. | Known as Graphics card. |
| It may consist of both graphic and processing units. | It only consists of a Graphics unit. |
| Fewer transistors are present, so they are less efficient. | More transistors than the APU. |
| More power-efficient. | Less power-efficient. |
| Gaming gives more FPS than integrated Graphics. | Gaming gives more FPS than APU and Integrated Graphics. |
| Less graphic capability. | High graphic capability. |
| Reduces the available memory on PC. | Don’t affect the memory of the PC. |
This means that while an APU can execute and operate more efficiently than a CPU, the GPU really outperforms the APU. APUs simultaneously have CPUs and integrated graphics. APU has both graphics and microprocessors, therefore, it can function without a GPU.
Can You Run Two GPUs on One APU?
Yes, you may use a single APU with a dual GPU. To divide the processing, a system with two graphics cards will need extra RAM. Running two GPUs simultaneously on a single APU will also demand more RAM.
The GPUs must be connected together and crossfired. You must now activate the APU, as previously mentioned. All three components will then be functional. When employing a dual GPU configuration, the power needs and cooling are the two key factors to think about.
It’s critical to have a power source that can support the increased load when it comes to power requirements. A dual GPU configuration typically uses more power than one GPU. If your GPUs start to overheat, you might also think about installing a cooling system.
Is APU More Effective For Gaming Than GPU?
APU is not, in any case, superior to the GPU. GPU powers all textures and visuals. APU just assists the CPU or GPU in processing. It doesn’t specifically improve performance. GPU is superior to APU if you’re looking for a more economical option.
APU is a good option if you want to play games on a tight budget. The only way to maximize APU performance is to pair it with GPU. As the APU and GPU are Crossfired, the Hertz rate rises. Even AMD has introduced APU chipsets that directly interface with GPUs without any outside assistance.
APU can reduce gaming performance if you only have a small amount of RAM available because it has an impact on your computer system’s available memory (RAM). So, the GPU would be a better choice if you have a low-end gaming computer with little RAM.
Motherboards that allow APU and GPU to work together
The motherboard plays an important role in allowing the APU and GPU to function together. You will only be able to set up both chipsets to work together if you have a suitable motherboard. Here is a list of the top 5 motherboards that support both APU and GPU.
1. GA-E2100N
This Gigabyte motherboard includes an AMD E2100 APU and an integrated Nvidia GeForce 210 GPU. It has two DDR3 memory slots and one dedicated card slot. The GA-E2100N is an excellent solution for individuals who want to combine an APU with a GPU.
2. Gigabyte Aorus Pro WiFi B450I
The Gigabyte B450I Aorus Pro WiFi is another excellent option for individuals who wish to use an APU and GPU together. It has an AMD Ryzen 5 2400G APU, integrated Radeon RX Vega 11 Graphics, and two DDR4 memory slots. It only has one dedicated graphic card slot, which is unfortunate.
3. ASUS B450M PRO4 motherboard
AMD Ryzen 3 2000, 3000, and 4000 G-Series APUs are supported by the ASRock B450M PRO4. Install Radeon RX Vega 8 Graphics for the optimum APU/GPU combination. It also includes four DDR4 memory slots and up to one dedicated graphics card slot.
X470GT8 Biostar
It is compatible with all AMD Ryzen APUs and includes Radeon RX Vega 11 graphics. It also features three dedicated graphic card slots and supports up to 64 GB of DDR4 RAM. High-end performance and a smooth overclocking experience are provided by the AMD X470 chipset. With three dedicated graphics card slots, the Biostar X470GT8 is the finest option for APU-GPU integration.
5. ASUS ROG Strix Gaming X470-F
The ASUS X470-F ROG Strix Gaming is equipped with an AMD X470 ATX and an AMD Ryzen 7 2700X APU, as well as an integrated Radeon RX Vega 11 Graphics. It contains three dedicated graphics card slots as well as four DDR4 RAM slots that can hold up to 64 GB of RAM.
How can I tell if the power going to my GPU is sufficient?
Start by examining the power needs of the particular GPU model you are using. The majority of cards will state their minimum power requirement in watts. Verify that your power source is supplying at least that much electricity. Your GPU isn’t getting enough power if it isn’t.
You may also check the power utilization of your GPU in the control panel of your graphics card to see how much power it is using. It needs to get more power if it uses more than what is specified in the specifications.
It’s a good idea to look for any BIOS updates for your graphics card and motherboard. Updates occasionally help the GPU get more power. Finally, if you’re still having issues, you might need to get in touch with the GPU maker for more support.
How Can I Change From an APU to a GPU?
You must turn off the APU in order to switch to the GPU. Through AMD catalyst or BIOS settings, you can disable it. The Device Manager is another place where you can disable the APU. Choose “Display adapters” from the device manager’s menu after first launching it. After that, choose “Disable” from the context menu of the integrated APU.
Before turning off the APU, make sure the graphics card is installed and plugged in. Otherwise, after disabling it, you can experience display problems.
You don’t need to use the external GPU if the AMD processor has an APU with integrated graphics. The best option if you play video games and need additional graphics is to utilize an APU and GPU with greater RAM.
Conclusion
When used together, APU and GPU can both significantly improve your computer’s performance. Before making the transfer, there are a few things you should consider. First, confirm that the graphics card you intend to use is supported by your APU. Second, confirm that both components can be supported by your motherboard.