Windows · Windows Utilities
GPU-Z for Windows
Free Windows utility from TechPowerUp that identifies detailed graphics card specifications and monitors GPU sensors like temperature and clock speeds in real time.
Updated August 9, 2026 · Reviewed by SoftNexi Editorial Team, Software research and documentation
Overview
GPU-Z, from TechPowerUp, is a lightweight utility focused entirely on graphics cards: it identifies the GPU model, memory type and amount, driver version, and supported technologies, and it also monitors live sensor data such as GPU temperature, clock speeds, fan speed, and power draw.
It complements CPU-Z rather than duplicating it — CPU-Z's own GPU tab is basic, while GPU-Z is purpose-built for graphics hardware and is commonly used when benchmarking, checking whether a card is thermal throttling, or verifying that a graphics card's specifications match what was advertised, particularly for used-market purchases.
A Sensor Log tab records values over time, which is useful for confirming whether temperatures or clocks dip or spike during a gaming session, and an Advanced tab exposes lower-level register information for enthusiasts.
It suits PC gamers, overclockers, and anyone diagnosing graphics card behavior; it does not replace a full system monitor for CPU and motherboard sensors, where a tool like HWiNFO or HWMonitor is the better fit.
Key features
- GPU identification: model, memory amount and type, driver version, bus interface
- Real-time sensor monitoring: temperature, clock speeds, fan speed, and power draw
- Sensor Log tab to record values over a session
- Support for validation reports similar to CPU-Z
- Portable build that runs without installation
- Advanced tab with lower-level GPU register details
System requirements
- Operating system
- Windows 11 and Windows 10 (older Windows releases also supported)
- Architecture
- x64 or x86 build; a portable build is also offered
How to install GPU-Z
1. Download from TechPowerUp
Open techpowerup.com/gpuz and download the installer or the portable build.
2. Install or run portable
Run the installer, or launch the portable executable directly with no installation.
3. Launch GPU-Z
Open the program; it detects your graphics card automatically and displays its specifications and live sensors.
How to use it
1. Check GPU temperature and clocks live
Open the Sensors tab to watch temperature, core clock, and fan speed update in real time, useful while gaming or stress testing in the background.
2. Log a gaming session
Enable logging on the Sensors tab before playing to record how temperatures and clocks change over time, then review the saved log afterward.
3. Verify card specifications
Check the main tab against the card's advertised specifications, useful when buying used or verifying a pre-built PC.
Safety and privacy
- We link only to TechPowerUp's own gpuz page, the official distribution channel.
- TechPowerUp is an established hardware enthusiast site with a long publishing history for this tool.
- Bundled software
- The official download does not bundle third-party offers; avoid third-party download portals when searching for GPU-Z.
- Privacy
- Runs locally; the optional validation/share feature uploads detected specs to TechPowerUp's site to generate a shareable report.
Known risks
- As with any sensor tool, only trust copies from techpowerup.com to avoid repackaged installers from unrelated download sites.
What's new
2.xx series
TechPowerUp publishes frequent updates to add support for newly released graphics cards. Check techpowerup.com/gpuz for the current version before downloading.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free and focused specifically on graphics card details
- Real-time sensor monitoring alongside identification in one tool
- Sensor logging for reviewing behavior over a session
- Portable build available
Cons
- Covers GPU only — no CPU, motherboard, or storage monitoring
- Interface is basic and utilitarian
- Some very new or niche GPUs may need a version update before full support
Verdict
GPU-Z is the standard free tool for graphics card identification and live sensor monitoring on Windows. Pair it with CPU-Z or HWiNFO for full-system information beyond the graphics card.
Frequently asked questions
Is GPU-Z free?
Yes, it is free to download and use.
Does GPU-Z work with both NVIDIA and AMD cards?
Yes, it supports graphics cards from major vendors including NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel.
Can GPU-Z log temperatures over time?
Yes, the Sensor Log tab can record temperature, clocks, and other sensor values throughout a session for later review.