4 Ways to Check GPU Health in Windows 11

Your GPU is at the heart of everything graphics-related on your PC—from gaming to video editing to simply running Windows 11’s interface. But like any hardware, it can run into issues over time. Catching those early can save you from bigger headaches later. Here are four simple ways to check your GPU’s health in Windows 11.

1. Task Manager: Quick and Built-in

Windows 11’s Task Manager gives a quick snapshot of GPU usage, temperature, and memory.

How to do it:

1. Right-click the taskbar and select Task Manager.
2. Click the Performance tab.
3. Select GPU on the left sidebar.

Here you’ll see real-time usage, temperature (if your GPU supports it), and memory details. If usage spikes when nothing’s running, or if temperatures are unusually high, you may have a problem.

2. Windows Security: Check for Driver Issues

Sometimes, GPU issues are related to driver problems rather than hardware failure. Windows Security can help spot these.

How to do it:

1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.
2. Go to Device performance & health.

If Windows detects any issues, you’ll see a warning here. It’s not foolproof for deep hardware issues, but it’s a quick way to catch driver or compatibility problems.

3. DirectX Diagnostic Tool (DxDiag): Get the Details

DxDiag is a built-in tool that gives you technical info about your GPU and can spot problems.

How to do it:

1. Press Win + R, type dxdiag, and hit Enter.
2. Click the Display tab.

Look for any error messages under “Notes” at the bottom. This can flag issues with your GPU or its drivers.

4. Third-Party GPU Monitoring Tools

Sometimes, built-in tools aren’t enough. Free apps like GPU-Z, HWMonitor, or MSI Afterburner can give you a much deeper look at GPU temperatures, clock speeds, voltage, and more.

How to do it:

• Download one of the tools (GPU-Z, for example).
• Run the app and check real-time stats.

Look for sudden drops in clock speed, overheating, or unusual voltage readings. These can be signs your GPU is struggling.

Final Tips

• Update your drivers regularly through the manufacturer’s app or Windows Update.
• Clean your PC to prevent dust buildup, which can cause overheating.
• If you notice artifacts (strange shapes or lines on screen), crashes, or regular overheating, it might be time for a hardware check or replacement.

Stay proactive and your GPU will last a lot longer—keeping your PC running smoothly.

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!