Many 15-inch MacBook Pro notebooks have two graphics processors (GPU)—a discrete GPU and an integrated GPU. The discrete GPU provides substantial graphics performance but uses more energy. The integrated GPU optimizes battery life by using less energy.
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I would take a look at the Macworld review for more information on the new Mac Pro. Quad-Core and Eight-Core Mac Pros (2009 editions) Review Desktop Macworld I've got the standard card in my Mac Pro (see specs in my signature), and it does a great job with video editing, but I haven't tested it with any games.
Check if the discrete or integrated GPU is in use
To see which graphics cards are in use, choose Apple () menu > About this Mac. The graphics cards currently in use appear next to Graphics. Learn which integrated GPUs your Mac might have.
Check if an app is using the dedicated GPU
To see if an app is using the higher-performance discrete GPU, open Activity Monitor and click the Energy tab. If you don't see the Requires High Perf GPU column, your computer only has one graphics processor.
In this example, iMovie and Final Cut Pro are using the higher-performance discrete GPU:
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Here are a few examples of apps and accessories that use the higher-performance discrete GPU:
- iMovie
- Adobe Photoshop and Adobe InDesign
- An external display
Learn how to use an external graphics processor (eGPU) with your Mac.
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Learn how to set the graphics performance on your MacBook Pro or MacBook Pro with Retina display computer.