FIX: Minecraft not using GPU

You need to configure Minecraft to utilize the dedicated GPU instead of the default Intel one. In order to do so, follow the steps below.

How do I make Minecraft using the dedicated GPU?

1. Select the NVIDIA GPU

1. Right-click the desktop and select NVIDIA Control Panel.
2. Select Manage 3D Settings on the left of the window.
3. To select NVIDIA GPU for all games, select the High-performance NVIDIA processor option on the Global Settings tab.
   
4. To select the NVIDIA GPU more specifically for Minecraft, click the Program Settings tab.
   
5. Click the Add button.
6. Click Browse on the Add window.
   
7. Then open the Minecraft folder in the Add window.
8. Open Minecraft’s bin subfolder, which might be at this default path: C:Program Files (x86)Minecraftruntimejre-x641.8.0_25bin.
9. Select Javaw.exe in the bin folder.
10. Then click the Open option.
11. With the Javaw.exe path selected, click the Select the preferred graphics card for this program drop-down menu.
12. Select the High-performance NVIDIA processor option.
13. Press the Apply button.

Note: Users with NVIDIA laptops can also select a High-performance NVIDIA processor context menu option. Right-click Minecraft’s icon to open its context menu.

Then select the High-performance NVIDIA processor option on the Run with Graphics processor context menu submenu.

2. Select the AMD GPU

1. Minecraft players with AMD GPUs will need to right-click the desktop and select AMD Radeon Settings.
2. Then click the System tab.
   
3. Click the Switchable Graphics tab.
4. Select the Installed Profile Applications option to get an overview of your installed software.
   
5. Click the Browse option to select Javaw.exe for Minecraft.
6. Click Javaw.exe to select the High Performance option for the discrete GPU.

3. Select High-Performance GPU via Settings

1. Go to the Windows search bar.
2. Then enter the keyword graphics settings in the search box.
3. Click Graphics settings to open the Settings window as shown directly below.
   
4. Select Universal app if you got Minecraft from the MS Store.
5. Click the Select an app menu to select Minecraft.
6. Click the Options button for Minecraft.
   
7. Select the High-performance radio button.
8. Press the Save button.

So, that’s how you can configure Minecraft to utilize a discrete GPU instead of the integrated alternative. Then you’ll get better graphics performance for Minecraft when you play it.

You can also configure dual GPU graphics settings much the same for other games.

FAQ: Learn more about Minecraft

• Does Minecraft use the GPU?

It all depends on what version of Minecraft for PC you are using. If you want Minecraft to run better, consider a CPU upgrade before all else.

• Do I need a powerful PC to run Minecraft?

Minecraft was created with the common PC user in mind, so unless you want to use advanced shader mods, you don’t need a more powerful gaming PC to run it.

• Why is Minecraft not using my GPU?

It might be a graphic settings issue. You can follow the steps in this guide to make Minecraft using your dedicated GPU.

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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in April 2020 and was revamped and updated in January 2021 for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.