Graphics card (GPU)
The GPU draws everything on screen and powers games, 3D and video work. In laptops it is either built into the processor (integrated) or a separate chip (discrete).
Two kinds of GPUs exist in laptops. An integrated GPU shares the processor's memory and power budget — enough for the interface, video playback and light photo work. A discrete GPU has its own processor and dedicated VRAM — required for modern games, 3D rendering and heavy video timelines.
Types and facets
- Gaming lines (GeForce, Radeon, Arc) — optimised for frame rates in games; classes range from entry to ultra.
- Professional lines (Quadro RTX, Radeon Pro) — certified drivers and more VRAM for CAD and content-creation software, at a price premium.
- VRAM — the GPU's own memory; larger textures, higher resolutions and 3D scenes consume more of it.
High class
≈55 fps
128 GPUs measured
Mainstream class
≈27 fps
119 GPUs measured
Cyberpunk 2077 — Average measured frames per second at 1080p, high preset — live from the GPU database.
How it affects your choice
If your work is a browser and office apps, an integrated GPU is the right, quiet and battery-friendly answer. Games, 3D, video editing and machine learning benefit from discrete graphics — and from cooling that lets it run. Measured GPUs live in the GPU catalog.