If you’ve ever tried to launch Photoshop or any other Adobe product on your Windows laptop, only to be greeted by a frustrating error message about your graphics processor being incompatible, you’re not alone. This issue often stems from a problem with your laptop’s dual graphics setup, particularly when the built-in graphics processor (GPU) is not properly recognized.
Why Does This Happen?
This issue is most common on laptops with dual GPU setups. These laptops use two graphics processors: one built into the CPU and a discrete GPU (often from Nvidia or AMD). In many cases, especially with laptops that have Intel CPUs, the built-in GPU handles basic tasks like displaying the Windows desktop, while the discrete GPU is used for more demanding applications like Photoshop.
However, in certain cases, Adobe Photoshop gets confused by the presence of two graphics processors, leading to the error message about graphics compatibility. This typically happens on laptops that don’t have a proper driver installed for the built-in GPU.
What’s the Root Cause?
The issue is exacerbated by a setting called the “MUX switch,” which allows some laptops to completely disable the built-in GPU and force the system to rely solely on the discrete GPU. However, only a handful of laptops have this switch, meaning most systems will use the internal GPU for displaying images—even if a more powerful discrete GPU is present. This causes Photoshop (and other Adobe products) to incorrectly assume that the graphics processor is incompatible.
How to Fix the Problem
While there are a few workarounds to temporarily solve the issue, the best solution lies in installing the correct drivers for the built-in GPU. Here’s a breakdown of possible fixes:
1. Use an External Display
One potential workaround is to connect an external display to your laptop. In many laptops with dual GPUs, the HDMI or DisplayPort outputs are connected directly to the discrete GPU. By attaching an external monitor, you may bypass the compatibility issue, allowing Photoshop to launch without error.
2. Set the External Display as the Primary Screen
Another approach is to use the laptop’s screen as a secondary display and set the external monitor as the primary screen. This method may also fix the issue since it forces the discrete GPU to handle the main display.
3. Install the Missing GPU Drivers
The actual fix for the problem is relatively simple: you need to install the drivers for your laptop’s built-in GPU. If you’re using an Intel laptop with a 12th Gen processor, for instance, you can search for and install the appropriate Intel graphics drivers. These drivers are essential for ensuring that both GPUs are recognized and work together properly.
Once the drivers are installed, reboot your laptop, and Photoshop or any other Adobe product should launch without any issues related to graphics processor compatibility.
Why Does This Happen in the First Place?
This problem arises when users attempt to disable the built-in GPU in an effort to fix the issue. While some laptops with MUX switches allow for this, most laptops don’t have this feature, and disabling the internal GPU can lead to complications. The discrete GPU depends on the built-in GPU for various tasks, and without the internal GPU functioning properly, the entire graphics system can fail to work as expected.
Final Thoughts
While workarounds like using an external display or changing the primary monitor may seem like quick fixes, the most reliable solution is to install the correct drivers for your built-in GPU. By doing so, Photoshop and other Adobe products will properly detect and utilize both graphics processors, eliminating the compatibility error once and for all.
So, if you’ve been struggling with this issue, don’t worry—it’s a common problem with a simple solution. Install the right drivers, and your Adobe apps should work perfectly fine again!