Can I use GPUs of different types in the same computer for different applications?

Ne0Wolf7

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Jun 23, 2016
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Hello, everybody,
I'm attempting to build my first computer and have reached a dilemma- I will be using light 3D modeling (Autodesk 123D Design and Austodesk Meshmixer) and light gaming (Minecraft). What I'd like to do to satisfy both programs is this: buy a low end workstation graphics card and a low end gaming card for the same machine and tell the machine what card to use for what application (Use gaming card for games and the workstation card for CAD/CAM). All three of these "main programs" for my build are relatively light considering their professional counterparts and seem to have undemanding system requirements but these gpus have me stumped. Can I use 2 completely different GPUs in the same computer and tell the machine which card to use to power what programs? Help is much appreciated, especially considering this is my first build.
 
Solution
Yes, it is very easy!

If you have Nvidia graphics card:
Right click on the desktop and open up Nvidia control panel, go to 3D settings, then go to progam settings (instead of global as global changes the settings of ALL programs), then select preferred graphics processor and select the one you want to use the program with.

If you have AMD graphics card:
I don't perfectly know how to do it on AMD graphics processor, I know how choose a global graphics card for all the programs and for that you have to open up a menu type of thing, like, when i did it, i pressed some F2 button or maybe F11, i cant remember that, and after going into that menu, you have to find a graphics option and check if there is anyway to switch between...

Seeking_Gamer_2

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Feb 29, 2016
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Yes, it is very easy!

If you have Nvidia graphics card:
Right click on the desktop and open up Nvidia control panel, go to 3D settings, then go to progam settings (instead of global as global changes the settings of ALL programs), then select preferred graphics processor and select the one you want to use the program with.

If you have AMD graphics card:
I don't perfectly know how to do it on AMD graphics processor, I know how choose a global graphics card for all the programs and for that you have to open up a menu type of thing, like, when i did it, i pressed some F2 button or maybe F11, i cant remember that, and after going into that menu, you have to find a graphics option and check if there is anyway to switch between graphics cards which you will use!

Hope this solution worked!
 
Solution

Ne0Wolf7

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Jun 23, 2016
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As far as checking this solution, I cannot because i have not yet bought all the part or even decided on most of them. My goal is to know I can do this before I buy anything. Your reply is very helpful, although I was interested in AMD because they're supposed to have better value at the lower end of the spectrum where I am buying. Thanks!
 

Ne0Wolf7

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Jun 23, 2016
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Theres been some time or me to do more research, and I found that I will not need to use two graphics cards. I will instaed use a GTX 750 TI in my machine. Thanks so much for your help!