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To remove a GPU, you shut down and unplug the PC, disconnect the PCIe power cables, remove the bracket screws, press the PCIe slot latch and pull the graphics card straight up out of the slot. Removing a graphics card takes about 5–10 minutes and needs only a Phillips screwdriver.
What do you need to remove a graphics card?
You need 3 things to remove a graphics card:
- A Phillips #2 screwdriver.
- An anti-static surface, such as the card’s box or anti-static bag.
- A way to ground yourself, such as touching the metal case.
Should you uninstall drivers before removing a GPU?
You should uninstall drivers before removing a GPU when you are switching brands, for example from NVIDIA to AMD. Use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) for a clean removal. When replacing a card with one from the same brand, uninstalling is optional. See how to update GPU drivers.
How do you remove a GPU from the motherboard step by step?
You remove a GPU from the motherboard in 9 steps:
- Shut down Windows and switch off the power supply at the back.
- Unplug the power cord and press the power button for 5 seconds to drain charge.
- Disconnect the monitor cables from the graphics card.
- Remove the side panel and lay the case on its side if the card is heavy.
- Ground yourself by touching unpainted metal on the case.
- Unplug the PCIe power cables (8-pin or 12V-2×6) by pressing the clip and pulling straight out.
- Remove the screws holding the GPU bracket to the case, and any GPU support bracket.
- Press or slide the PCIe latch at the end of the slot to release the card.
- Lift the card straight up, holding the bracket and the card’s edge, and place it on an anti-static surface.
How do you release the PCIe slot latch?
You release the PCIe slot latch by pressing it down, sliding it sideways or pressing a button, depending on the motherboard. Many new motherboards have a quick-release button near the slot, such as ASUS Q-Release or MSI EZ PCIe Release. If the latch is hidden under a large card, use a long screwdriver or plastic tool to press it gently.
Why is my GPU stuck in the slot?
Your GPU is stuck in the slot because the PCIe latch is still locked, a bracket screw is still in place, or the card is caught on the case. Never pull hard; check all three before trying again.
How do you remove a 12VHPWR or 12V-2×6 cable?
You remove a 12VHPWR or 12V-2×6 cable by pressing the clip on top of the connector firmly and pulling straight out, without rocking it side to side. Read do GPUs come with power cables for connector types.
What do you do after removing a GPU?
After removing a GPU, you can install a new graphics card, clean the old card, or sell your used GPU. Store the old card in an anti-static bag.
FAQ
Can you remove a GPU without unplugging the PC?
No. Always unplug the PC before removing a GPU to avoid electrical damage.
Will the PC work without a GPU?
Yes, if the CPU has integrated graphics; plug the monitor into the motherboard.
How do you remove a GPU from a laptop?
Most laptop GPUs are soldered to the motherboard and cannot be removed.
Related guides
- Installing & Upgrading a GPU
- How to Install a Graphics Card
- How to Reseat a GPU
- How to Update GPU Drivers
