Most people want to know if they Can I use their PC without the GPU, In this article, we will answer this question.
Due to various factors, the ongoing graphical processing unit (GPU) supply chain up and down the supply chain, creating a new gaming PC is a real challenge.
Paying extra for less performance or finding a good deal on a GPU is the only way to buy one nowadays.
But does that mean you can’t make a gaming PC? It is not required.
You can build a new PC using today’s fastest CPUs, RAM, and storage, and start using it without the GPU.
When Can You Run PC Without GPU?
- When you have Integrated graphics
- When you have Enough RAM on you PC
1. Integrated graphics
A graphics adapter is required for optimal performance on your computer. Integrated graphics on today’s CPUs can show standard Windows material and a limited set of gaming features.
When you create your PC, you only want to select the correct version of your desired CPU.
Note that integrated graphics are unavailable in all CPU models, so your choice of CPU is limited.
For Intel Core CPUs, you’ll want to find the “F” nominee at the end of the product name. If it is there, the CPU does not have integrated graphics. Intel desktop CPUs provide some levels of Intel UHD graphics.
A graphics adapter is required for optimal performance on your computer. Integrated graphics on today’s CPUs can show standard Windows material and a limited set of gaming features.
There are two to choose from for the AMD Ryzen 5000 series CPUs. The Ryzen 7 5700G (“G” designates integrated graphics, an “X” means that a single To run a game, you must install a graphics card.
You’ll need a discrete GPU if you want a different AMD CPU. Regarding gaming, the Maxsun Nvidia GeForce GT 1030 will outperform integrated Radeon graphics 30 132.
Intel and AMD’s integrated graphics will be so fast that you will run modern titles at low resolutions (no higher than 1080p) and reject graphical details.
Thirty frames per second are all you’ll be able to obtain (fps); in most cases, you’ll get significantly less. You can play old titles and eSports games at 1080p with graphical detail.
Building your gaming PC in this manner may not be ideal, but it will allow you to play light games while you seek a better GPU. The PC will also be fast enough for your productivity and media consumption.
2. Enough RAM
RAM is another important thing to check if you are using APU. Because CPUs with integrated graphics (APUs) generate/use more RAM for graphics processing.
As the Accelerated Processing Unit also processes / renders graphics, it uses more RAM than normal CPUs. Therefore, you will need to install more RAM than usual if it does not have a GPU.
Can you ask me how much RAM you need? Well, as you are not using a dedicated graphics card, you may not use your computer for any advanced work.
So 6 GB RAM will be more than enough for you. Although, if you want to do a little gaming (yes, it is possible, read below), 8 GB RAM would be best for you.
Waiting for a GPU? Get Your Fix with Streaming Services.
First, there are many streaming gaming services where the hard work of presenting the game is done on large servers.
Which only needs to display the stream as if it were some other content and your keyboard and Send peripheral gaming inputs back to the server. You don’t require a powerful graphics card to play today’s most demanding games.
Many streaming services are available, all offering a variety of games and coming at different prices. Here are a few:
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
- Amazon Luna
- Nvidia GeForce Now
- Sony PlayStation Now
1. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
14.99 / month: Includes over 100 games for both Xbox and Windows 10.
2. Amazon Luna
Amazon 5.99 / month for Amazon’s Luna + channel and $17.99 / month for Ubisoft + channel: Currently in beta, the number of titles varies, but the service looks promising.
3. Nvidia GeForce Now
$ 4.99 / month: This service is slightly different because it lets you stream your pre-owned games on Steam, Epic Game Store, and App Services.
4. Sony PlayStation Now
99 9.99 / month: Streams PS2, PS3, and PS4 games with new monthly titles. There are many other game streaming services, but big players are considering them.
Going this route will allow you to play modern titles with solid performance while you wait for your shiny new updated GPU.
It depends on the motherboard you use. Many modern (desktop) motherboards not sold as part of the built-in PC will require an external GPU if they do not provide an onboard display.
If they don’t need it, it means they have graphics integrated. If there is no onboard graphics output, there is nothing to display.
At this time, you need a GPU to get any display. However, when you have your GPU on board now, you can use the graphics output protocol without the GPU driver or feature, and you can send pixel drawing information to the GPU and get it displayed on the screen.
All modern GPUs provide this feature as a “standard” to communicate with the processor. That’s why we can see the graphics when we don’t have drivers or run the PC for the first time.
Final Thought
Building a gaming PC today isn’t dependent on the choice of a graphics card. If you opt to use a streaming service, you’ll have to go through a few hoops and research to ensure you have the proper graphics loaded. So you can start using your PC without the GPU?
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