Can you switch USB-C with Thunderbolt to use dedicated Nvidia GPU?

[BigFig15]

Hi,

I want to hook 2 external monitors up to my ENVY 16 laptop and use the dedicated Nvidia GPU.  I have the HDMI connected monitor using the Nvidia GPU and the other monitor I have hooked up to the thunderbolt USB-C using an HDMI adapter and that monitor is using the integrated Intel GPU.  I tried disabling the Intel GPU and that didn't work.  Is it possible to switch the USB-C ports to use the Nvidia GPU or am I going to have to get an HDMI adapter to go from 1 to 2 ports?

Thanks for the help!

[Alden4]

Hi @BigFig15,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

Unfortunately, in most laptops with both integrated and dedicated GPUs, the external display outputs are often wired to the integrated GPU. This means that even if you connect an external monitor to the USB-C port (which is typically wired to the integrated GPU), it won't be able to utilize the dedicated Nvidia GPU.

Disabling the integrated GPU may cause issues with the laptop's display and other functionalities, as the integrated GPU is often responsible for handling those tasks.

To utilize the Nvidia GPU for both external monitors, you'll likely need to use the HDMI port for one monitor and the USB-C port for the other, both connected to the Nvidia GPU. If your laptop has multiple USB-C ports, you can try connecting the USB-C monitor to another port and see if it's connected to the Nvidia GPU by default. However, this behavior can vary depending on the laptop model.

Alternatively, you may consider using a USB-C docking station or adapter that supports video output and connects to the Nvidia GPU. These docking stations often provide multiple display outputs and other connectivity options, allowing you to connect multiple monitors while utilizing the dedicated GPU. Make sure to check the specifications and compatibility of the docking station with your laptop before purchasing.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support