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To update an NVIDIA GeForce driver in Windows 11, use the NVIDIA App for convenience, download the matching driver directly from NVIDIA for more control, or use Windows Update for the automatic route Microsoft recommends for most drivers. If you have a laptop, check its manufacturer’s support page too: the laptop maker may provide a driver certified for that specific model.
Choose an update method
| Method | Best for | Package control |
|---|---|---|
| NVIDIA App | Updating through NVIDIA’s app and switching between Game Ready and Studio driver branches | Select a driver branch in the app; NVIDIA provides the update controls |
| NVIDIA driver download | Choosing a package for a specific graphics product and Windows configuration | Direct selection through NVIDIA’s driver lookup |
| Windows Update | Using Windows’ built-in automatic driver updates | Less direct control over a particular NVIDIA package version |
For a notebook, consult the laptop maker’s support guidance if model-specific certification matters. NVIDIA says its GeForce Game Ready and Studio drivers can be installed on supported notebook GPUs, but recommends checking the OEM’s recommended updates.
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Update with the NVIDIA App
- Open the NVIDIA App. If it is not installed, download it from NVIDIA’s NVIDIA App page.
- Open the app’s driver section and use its update controls to check for and install an available driver.
- Choose Game Ready or Studio if you want to switch driver branches. NVIDIA describes the app as a way to keep a PC updated with current GeForce Game Ready and Studio drivers.
NVIDIA notes that some existing GeForce Experience installations cannot automatically update to the NVIDIA App. In that case, download the app or install it through a current Game Ready driver.
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Download and install a driver directly from NVIDIA
- Open NVIDIA’s driver lookup.
- Select the exact graphics product and Windows configuration that match your PC. Confirm the GPU model and Windows version and architecture before downloading.
- Review the release page’s supported products and release notes to confirm the package is appropriate for your GPU.
- Download the matching installer, run it, and follow its prompts. Restart if the installer requests it.
Driver listings change over time, so use the live NVIDIA listing rather than relying on an old version number. For example, NVIDIA’s page listed GeForce Game Ready Driver 617.14, released September 22, 2026, for Windows 10 64-bit and Windows 11. That is dated product information, not a standing recommendation for every GPU.
#1 Best Overall
- AI Performance: 767 AI TOPS
- OC mode: 2632 MHz (OC mode)/ 2602 MHz (Default mode)
- Powered by the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture and DLSS 4
- Axial-tech fan design features a smaller fan hub that facilitates longer blades and a barrier ring that increases downward air pressure
- A 2.5-slot design maximizes compatibility and cooling efficiency for superior performance in small chassis
Use Windows Update or Device Manager
Microsoft recommends Windows Update for automatic driver updates in most cases. To check there, open Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates. If a driver is offered, install it through Windows.
Device Manager is useful when you have already downloaded a manufacturer’s driver, need to reinstall a driver, or want to roll back a recent change. Microsoft’s instructions are at Update drivers through Device Manager in Windows.
Rank #2
- Powered by the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture and DLSS 4
- Powered by GeForce RTX 5070 Ti
- Integrated with 16GB GDDR7 256bit memory interface
- PCIe 5.0
- WINDFORCE cooling system
If the new driver causes a problem
Roll back the driver
- Right-click Start and open Device Manager.
- Expand Display adapters, right-click the NVIDIA graphics device, and select Properties.
- Open the Driver tab and select Roll Back Driver. Follow the prompts and restart if asked.
Administrator permission is required. Microsoft says rolling back often resolves an issue that began after a Windows Update.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesReinstall the display adapter
If rollback is unavailable or does not help, Microsoft documents uninstalling the display adapter in Device Manager and restarting Windows so it can attempt to reinstall the driver. Use the Device Manager instructions linked above and select the NVIDIA adapter before uninstalling.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Powered by the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture and DLSS 4 OC mode: 2640MHz/Default mode: 2610MHz (Boost Clock)
- Military-grade components deliver rock-solid power and longer lifespan for ultimate durability
- Protective PCB coating helps protect against short circuits caused by moisture, dust, or debris
- 3.125-slot design with massive fin array optimized for airflow from three Axial-tech fans
- Phase-change GPU thermal pad helps ensure optimal thermal performance and longevity, outlasting traditional thermal paste for graphics cards under heavy loads
Rank #4
- Powered by the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture and DLSS 4
- Powered by GeForce RTX 5060
- Integrated with 8GB GDDR7 128bit memory interface
- PCIe 5.0
- WINDFORCE cooling system
Rank #3
- Powered by the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture and DLSS 4. System Requirements: Minimum 850W PSU with 16-pin 12V-2x6 (12VHPWR) connector required. Verify before purchasing.
- Military-grade components deliver rock-solid power and longer lifespan for ultimate durability. Compatibility: 348mm (13.7") length, 3.6 slots, 4.3 lbs. Confirm case clearance and slot spacing. GPU bracket included.
- Protective PCB coating helps protect against short circuits caused by moisture, dust, or debris
- 3.6-slot design with massive fin array optimized for airflow from three Axial-tech fans
- Phase-change GPU thermal pad helps ensure optimal thermal performance and longevity, outlasting traditional thermal paste for graphics cards under heavy loads
Before you install
- Match the package to the exact GPU and Windows configuration.
- For a laptop, check the manufacturer’s certified or recommended driver guidance, especially when model-specific support matters.
- Read the release notes and supported-product list; a newer version is not automatically necessary for every user.
- When downloading manually, use NVIDIA or the device manufacturer’s official site rather than a third-party driver-download site.
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