Did you know that a simple driver update can boost your gaming performance by up to 15%? It sounds almost too good to be true, but I’ve seen it happen. I remember spending a whole weekend troubleshooting choppy frame rates in a new game, only to find out the solution was a five-minute driver update. If you’re wondering how to update AMD drivers, you’ve come to the right place.
It’s one of the simplest yet most effective things you can do to keep your PC running smoothly, whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just use your computer for everyday tasks.
This guide will walk you through everything, step-by-step. We’ll cover the super-easy automatic method using AMD’s own software and the manual method for those who like a bit more control. Let’s get those drivers updated and your system optimized.
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Why Should I Bother Updating My AMD Drivers Anyway?
That’s a fair question. If your computer is working, why fix what isn’t broken? Well, think of drivers as the instruction manual that your graphics card (GPU) uses to talk to your operating system and your games. When that manual is outdated, communication gets messy.
Here’s what you gain by keeping them fresh:
- Better Performance: Game developers work closely with AMD to optimize new releases. Driver updates often include specific performance improvements for the latest titles.
- Fewer Bugs and Crashes: Have you ever had a game randomly crash to the desktop? An outdated driver is a common culprit. Updates patch up stability issues.
- New Features: AMD often rolls out new features through its Radeon Software, like improved streaming capabilities or new image sharpening technologies. You miss out on these goodies if you don’t update.
- Enhanced Security: Though less common for graphics drivers, updates can sometimes include important security fixes that protect your system.
Honestly, after years of building and maintaining my own PCs, I can tell you that keeping drivers updated is non-negotiable. It’s the digital equivalent of an oil change for your car—essential for long-term health and performance.
Before You Begin: What’s Your Graphics Card Model?
Before you can download the right software, you need to know exactly which AMD graphics card you have. It’s like knowing your shoe size before you go shopping. If you already know your GPU model (e.g., Radeon RX 7800 XT), you can skip this part.
If you’re unsure, here’s the easiest way to find out on Windows:
- Press the
Windows key + Ron your keyboard to open the Run dialog. - Type
dxdiagand press Enter. - You might get a prompt asking to check if your drivers are digitally signed. Just click “Yes.”
- The DirectX Diagnostic Tool will open. Click on the “Display” tab.
- Look for the “Name” field in the “Device” section. That’s your graphics card model!
Jot that name down. You’ll need it if you decide to go the manual route. Now that you’re armed with this crucial piece of information, let’s get to the fun part.
Method 1: The Easiest Way – How to Update AMD Drivers Automatically with Radeon Software
For 99% of people, this is the best method. It’s fast, simple, and you don’t have to worry about downloading the wrong file. AMD’s Adrenalin software (previously known as Radeon Software) has a built-in updater that does all the heavy lifting for you.
Step 1: Open AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition
First, you need to find and open the software.
- Right-click on your desktop.
- In the context menu, you should see an option that says “AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition.” Click on it.
If you don’t see this option, you might not have the software installed. Don’t worry, we’ll cover how to get it in the manual update section, which will also install this handy tool for future use.
Step 2: Check for Updates
Once the software is open, the interface is pretty straightforward.
- In the top right corner, you’ll see a gear icon. Click on it to go to “Settings.”
- In the Settings menu, look for the “Check for Updates” button on the left panel, usually under the “System” tab.
- The software will immediately check to see if a newer driver is available.
Step 3: Download and Install the New Driver
If a new driver is found, the software will show you the version number and release notes. This is actually pretty cool because you can see exactly what’s been fixed or improved, like “Optimizations for New Big Game Title.”
You’ll typically see a couple of options:
- Recommended: This is the most stable version that has undergone extensive testing. It’s the safest bet.
- Optional: This is usually a newer, beta version that might include support for brand-new games but hasn’t been as thoroughly tested. I usually stick with “Recommended” unless a game I’m eagerly waiting for is specifically mentioned in the “Optional” release notes.
Click the “Download” button. The software will handle the download process. Once it’s done, the button will change to “Install.” Click it to begin the installation.
What to Expect During Installation
Your screen might flicker or go black for a few seconds during the installation. This is completely normal! The installer is disabling the old driver and enabling the new one. Don’t panic. Just let it do its thing. I usually just grab a cup of coffee at this point.
The installer will guide you through a few clicks. It’s best to choose the “Full Install” or “Recommended” option to ensure all components are updated. It might also ask you to do a “Factory Reset,” which uninstalls old drivers before installing the new ones. This is a great option as it can prevent potential conflicts. I almost always select this for a clean slate.
Once it’s finished, it will prompt you to restart your computer. Do it. A restart is crucial for the new driver to load correctly. After your PC reboots, you’re all set! You’re now running the latest AMD driver.
Method 2: For the Hands-On User – How to Update AMD Drivers Manually
Maybe the automatic tool isn’t working, or maybe you just prefer to have more control over the process. Manually downloading and installing the driver is also a perfectly valid option. It sounds more intimidating than it is.
I sometimes do this when I’m setting up a new PC from scratch and don’t have any AMD software installed yet. It’s a reliable way to get the foundational software on your system.
Step 1: Go to the Official AMD Drivers and Support Website
First things first, only download drivers from the official AMD website. Downloading from third-party sites is a huge security risk. They could be bundled with malware or be the wrong version for your card.
You can find the official page here: AMD Drivers and Support
This is the only place you should trust for your driver files. The site is secure and directly from the source.
Step 2: Find the Right Driver for Your Graphics Card
This is where knowing your GPU model from earlier comes in handy. On the support page, you’ll see a section that says “Search for your product” or a list of product categories.
- You can either type your graphics card model (e.g., “Radeon RX 7800 XT”) into the search bar.
- Or you can select it from the list. It will be under “Graphics,” then your series (e.g., “Radeon RX 7000 Series”), and then your specific model.
Be precise. A driver for an RX 7700 XT is not the same as one for an RX 7800 XT.
Step 3: Select Your Operating System
After you select your product, the website will take you to the download page. It will ask for your operating system. For most people, this will be Windows 11 or Windows 10 (64-bit edition). Choose the correct one from the dropdown list.
Step 4: Download the Recommended Driver Software
You’ll now see a list of available downloads. Just like in the auto-update tool, you’ll likely see a “Recommended” and an “Optional” version.
- Adrenalin [version number] Recommended (WHQL): This is the one you want. WHQL stands for Windows Hardware Quality Labs. It means the driver has been tested and certified by Microsoft to be stable and compatible.
- Adrenalin [version number] Optional: Again, this is the newer beta version.
Click the “Download” button next to the Recommended version. Save the file to a location you can easily find, like your Desktop or Downloads folder.
Step 5: Run the Installer
Once the download is complete, find the installer file you just saved and double-click it to run it.
The installation process from here is identical to the one I described in the automatic method. The installer will open, and you can follow the on-screen prompts. Choose the “Full Install” option and consider using the “Factory Reset” feature for a clean installation.
Your screen will flicker, and you’ll need to restart your computer at the end. Once you’ve rebooted, the manual update is complete. As a bonus, the manual installation also installs the AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition, so you can use the automatic update method next time!
What If Something Goes Wrong? Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the process is usually smooth, technology can be finicky. I’ve had my share of updates that didn’t go as planned. Here are a few common problems and how to solve them.
Problem: The Installation Fails or Gives an Error
This can be frustrating, but it’s often caused by remnants of old drivers. The best solution is to perform a truly clean installation using a special tool.
- AMD Cleanup Utility: AMD provides its own tool for completely wiping all traces of its drivers from your system. You can download it from their website. Run this utility, restart your PC, and then try installing the new driver again.
- Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU): This is a very popular third-party tool among PC enthusiasts. It’s more thorough than the standard uninstall process. You have to boot into Windows Safe Mode to use it properly, but it’s the gold standard for fixing stubborn driver issues.
Problem: My PC is Acting Weird After the Update
Sometimes a new driver can introduce unexpected bugs, especially with older hardware or specific software combinations. If you’re experiencing crashes, graphical glitches, or poor performance after an update, the best course of action is to roll back to the previous driver.
If you know which version you were using before, you can simply run the DDU tool, and then manually download and install the older, stable driver from AMD’s website. It’s a good reason why I sometimes keep the installer file for the previous driver version in a folder, just in case.
A Final Piece of Personal Advice
Updating your AMD drivers is a fundamental part of PC maintenance. It’s not just for gamers chasing the highest frame rates; it’s for anyone who wants a stable, secure, and efficient computer. I make it a habit to check for a new driver every month or so, or whenever a big new game I’m interested in is released.
By following the steps for either the automatic or manual method, you’re taking control of your hardware’s performance. You’re ensuring that your graphics card, a component you invested in, is running at its absolute best. So go ahead, give it a try. The five minutes you spend on it today can save you hours of troubleshooting headaches down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What steps should I take if the screen stays black after updating AMD drivers?
If your screen remains black after an update, restart Windows in Safe Mode to uninstall or rollback the problematic driver using removal tools like the AMD Cleanup Utility or Display Driver Uninstaller, then reinstall the correct driver version to resolve the issue.
How do I manually update my AMD drivers from the official website?
To manually update AMD drivers, visit the AMD Drivers and Support page, select your graphics card model and operating system, download the latest driver package, and run the installer following the prompts, ensuring you perform a clean installation if necessary.
What is the difference between recommended and optional AMD driver updates?
Recommended drivers have been extensively tested for stability and are suitable for everyday use, while optional drivers may include the latest features and support for new games but could contain some bugs, so they are best used if you need access to new features immediately.
How can I automatically update my AMD drivers effectively?
To automatically update AMD drivers, open the AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition, check for updates in the Settings menu, and select the latest recommended driver to download and install, which is the easiest method for most users.
Why is it important to update your AMD drivers regularly?
Updating your AMD drivers is important because it ensures your computer runs smoothly, fixes bugs, adds new features, improves gaming performance, and keeps your system secure from potential vulnerabilities.
