GPU Force Methods
GPU Selector provides three methods to force a game to use a specific GPU. Each method targets different graphics APIs. Vulkan ICD driver selection is handled automatically for all methods via VK_LOADER_DRIVERS_SELECT.
Quick Reference
| Method | APIs | Requirements | Best For |
|---|
| Win GPU Pref | DX9 to DX12, OpenGL | None | Most games |
| Disable Device | All APIs | Admin rights | Universal fallback for any game |
| VK: Hide ICD | Vulkan | None | Vulkan games |
Compatibility warnings: GPU Selector shows per-API warnings when you select a force method that doesn't match your game's graphics API, with suggestions for a better alternative.
Windows GPU Preference
Sets the Windows graphics preference for the game executable via the registry. This tells Windows which GPU the application should prefer.
- Works with: DirectX 9 through 12, and OpenGL
- Does NOT work with: Vulkan — use VK: Hide ICD for those
- Takes effect on a fresh launch: Windows reads the preference when the game starts, so a game already running keeps the GPU it has
- Requires: No special permissions
- How it works: Writes to the Windows GPU preference registry key. The same mechanism as Settings → Display → Graphics Settings, but automated.
Recommended for most users. This is the safest and most compatible method for modern games.
Disable Device
Temporarily disables all other GPUs so the game can only see the one you selected. The GPUs are re-enabled after the game exits.
- Works with: All graphics APIs (DX9, DX10, DX11, DX12, OpenGL, Vulkan)
- Requires: Administrator privileges
- How it works: Uses the Windows Device Manager API to disable GPUs before launch and re-enable them after the game closes.
Note: Your display may flicker briefly when GPUs are disabled/re-enabled. If a monitor is connected to a disabled GPU, it will go black during gameplay. The GPU Re-enable Delay setting (in Settings) controls the timing.
Vulkan: Hide ICD
Temporarily hides the Vulkan ICD (Installable Client Driver) files for GPUs you don't want the game to see.
- Works with: Vulkan games only
- Requires: No special requirements
- How it works: Renames the ICD JSON files so the Vulkan loader can't find them. Files are restored after the game exits. The ICD Hide Delay setting controls timing.
Which Method Should I Use?
- Modern DX10/11/12 game? → Use Win GPU Pref
- Vulkan game? → Use VK: Hide ICD
- Anything else or nothing works? → Use Disable Device (universal but requires admin)
Upgrading from older versions: The legacy "vkconfig" and "Monitor Switch" methods have been removed in v1.2.5. Games that used those methods are automatically migrated to the best available alternative.
Games That Use DXVK
DXVK games pick their GPU from a file called dxvk.conf.
- Pick a GPU and click Launch
- Click Change for This Launch
Your file goes back to normal when the game closes.