Use built-in Linux commands like lspci and nvidia-smi to identify your GPU.
GUI tools like HardInfo or System Monitor provide a visual overview.
Knowing your GPU helps optimize performance for gaming, AI, or software tasks.
Most modern laptops or personal computers have a pre-installed integrated (built within the motherboard) or dedicated (a separate card) GPU. Knowing which GPU powers your device helps you understand your machine’s capability to process tasks such as rendering graphics in video games and other visual applications.
Unlike Windows, Linux does not always display this information right away. This article provides a quick overview of how to check which GPU is installed on Linux using some simple commands.
A Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) is a small chip that speeds up parallel processing and helps handle complex tasks like generating images, graphics, videos, and running AI applications.
If your computer is using the wrong driver or if you don't even know what hardware you have, it can lead to performance issues or lag. Checking your GPU makes sure you have the right drivers and helps you decide how to boost performance.
Also Read: Best GPUs for Virtual Reality Gaming
Linux lets you check your hardware information with simple yet useful terminal commands:
lspci shows all your Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) devices, including the GPU. Open the terminal and type:
lspci | grep -i vga
This will show which graphics cards (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) are connected to your system.
lshw provides a detailed rundown of your hardware. Type this command:
sudo lshw -c display
You will receive information such as the GPU model, memory size, and driver details.
If you have an NVIDIA GPU, nvidia-smi informs you of real-time statistics such as usage, temperature, and memory consumption. Enter this in the terminal:
nvidia-smi
This command is especially useful for gamers, AI developers, and people using Compute Unified Device Architecture (CUDA).
If you prefer using a graphical interface rather than using the terminal, Linux offers a few tools:
HardInfo is a simple tool that displays your system information in detail. To install it, type:
sudo apt install hardinfo # For Debian/Ubuntu
After installation, open HardInfo and go to Devices > PCI Devices to see the GPU details.
Many Linux versions have a system monitor that shows GPU details. For example, GNOME System Monitor shows how much the GPU is used in real-time. This helps you identify which GPU is active and its current performance.
Also Read: Best Budget GPUs Under $500 in 2025: Top Picks for 1080p and 1440p Gaming
Once you know which GPU you have, it is important to check if you have the right drivers. For NVIDIA GPUs:
sudo ubuntu-drivers devices
This command suggests the most suitable drivers for your pre-installed GPU. Having the right driver ensures smooth functioning.
Some Linux computers have both an integrated GPU (like Intel) and a dedicated one (like NVIDIA or AMD). In such cases, you need to make sure the right GPU is working:
Use prime-select on Ubuntu to switch between integrated and dedicated GPUs.
Check GPU usage with nvidia-smi or the system monitor to confirm which GPU is active.
Learning which GPU is powering your Linux computer is not very difficult. Terminal commands like lspci, lshw, and nvidia-smi offer a quick overview of the hardware information. You can also install GUI tools like HardInfo to have a user-friendly experience. Taking a few minutes to check the GPU setup can help you keep your system running efficiently for a long time.
These steps should help you check your Linux GPU and keep your system running smoothly for games, creating apps, or whatever you're doing!
1. How do I check my GPU on Linux using the terminal?
Run lspci | grep -i vga in the terminal to list your system’s GPU details.
2. What is the command to see detailed GPU info on Linux?
Use sudo lshw -c display to view complete GPU specifications and driver details.
3. How can I check if my Linux system uses an NVIDIA GPU?
Run nvidia-smi to see the GPU name, usage, and temperature if an NVIDIA card is installed.
4. Is there a graphical way to check GPU details on Linux?
Yes, use HardInfo or GNOME System Monitor to view GPU info through a simple interface.
5. How do I know if the correct GPU driver is installed?
Type sudo ubuntu-drivers devices to check and install the recommended driver.