The performance of your PC/monitor depends strongly on your drivers. If they´re not updated correctly, no matter what GPU you have, it won’t work as efficiently. Today we’ll show you how to update AMD drivers. Although it may look hard, it’s very simple; there are 3 different ways to do it. Let’s delve into the methods below.
Before we move on, you may be interested in more GPU how-to guides. Luckily, we have articles such as how to update Nvidia drivers and how to overclock your GPU right here. Be sure to check them out.
Step-by-step guide – How to update AMD graphics (GPU) drivers
Updating AMD drivers via Device Manager
When learning how to update your AMD graphics (GPU) drivers, we’ll show you several methods. The first being updating AMD drivers via Device Manager.
Step
Open Device Manager
Begin by right-clicking the Start button in Windows 10 and selecting “Device Manager” from the context menu. This opens the Device Manager window, where you can manage the hardware components of your system.
Step
Locate your AMD graphics card
Within Device Manager, scroll down to and expand the “Display adapters” section. Here, you’ll find your AMD video card listed. This step is crucial for identifying the specific hardware you’re updating.
Step
Initiate driver update
Right-click on your AMD video card entry under Display adapters and select “Update driver” from the context menu. This action prompts Windows to search for available driver updates for your AMD GPU.
Step
Search for driver software automatically
In the update window, choose “Search automatically for updated driver software.” Windows will then search both your computer and the internet for the latest driver software and install it if found. Follow any on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Updating AMD drivers via Radeon settings
Step
Open Radeon settings
Right-click on an empty area of your desktop and select “AMD Radeon Settings” from the menu that appears. This action launches the Radeon Settings application, your control center for adjusting various GPU settings.
Step
Navigate to the Updates section
Once in Radeon Settings, locate and select the “Updates” tab, typically found at the bottom of the navigation pane. This section is dedicated to managing your GPU’s driver updates.
Step
Check for Updates
Inside the Updates section, click on “Check for Updates” to allow Radeon Settings to search for any available driver updates for your GPU. It’s a simple yet effective way to ensure your drivers are current.
Step
Select driver version
After checking for updates, you’ll be presented with options: “New Recommended” and “New Optional.” “New Recommended” refers to stable driver versions ideal for most users, while “New Optional” may include beta versions with the latest features still under testing. Choose “New Recommended” for stability, and follow the on-screen prompts to download and install the update.
AMD driver update via website
Step
Identify your AMD graphics card model
Before heading to AMD’s website, it’s important to know the exact model of your AMD graphics card. This an important first step in learning how to update AMD graphics (GPU) drivers. You can find this information through the Device Manager under “Display adapters” or by using a system information tool. Knowing your GPU model ensures you download the correct drivers.
Step
Visit AMD drivers download website
Open your web browser and navigate to the AMD drivers and support page. Here, you’ll find an extensive list of AMD products. You can manually select your product from the list or use the auto-detect tool provided by AMD to identify your graphics card and operating system.
Step
Select your operating system and download driver
Once you’ve located your specific AMD graphics card model on the website, you’ll be prompted to select your operating system. After choosing the appropriate OS, AMD will display the latest available driver versions.
Choose the driver you wish to install—typically, you’ll see options for “Recommended” and sometimes “Optional” drivers. Click “Download” next to the driver version you prefer.
Step
Install the downloaded driver
After downloading the driver, locate the installation file (usually a .exe file) in your downloads folder and double-click it to start the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the new driver.
The installer might offer express or custom installation options; express installation is suitable for most users, installing all components automatically. Once the installation is complete, it’s a good practice to restart your computer to ensure the new drivers are properly applied and functioning.
How to know if your AMD drivers are up to date?
To check if your AMD drivers are up to date, open the AMD Radeon Settings application and navigate to the “Updates” section, where you can see your current driver version and check for new updates. Alternatively, you can visit the AMD website, use their driver auto-detect tool, or manually search for your GPU model to compare the latest available driver version with the one installed on your system. This ensures you have the most current drivers, offering optimal performance and security.
Do I need an AMD graphics driver if I have Nvidia?
If your system uses an Nvidia GPU, you do not need AMD graphics drivers; instead, you should install Nvidia drivers tailored for your specific Nvidia graphics card. Graphics drivers are designed to work with specific hardware, and having the correct drivers ensures your GPU functions optimally. Installing drivers for a different manufacturer’s GPU won’t benefit your system and could lead to compatibility issues or software conflicts.
