Many budget PC users still rely on the Intel HD Graphics 4600 in 2025. This built-in GPU from 2013 can still handle basic tasks and even some games when set up right. I’ve spent weeks testing this chip on my old laptop, and I’m here to share what it can really do.
Technical Specs and Design
This GPU, part of the Haswell family, offers decent performance for an integrated GPU. While it can’t match newer chips or dedicated cards, it still works for everyday tasks and light gaming in 2025.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Graphics Chip | Haswell GT2 (22nm) |
| Processing Units | 20 EUs |
| Base Clock | 350 MHz |
| Boost Clock | Up to 1350 MHz |
| Memory | Shared system RAM (up to 1700 MB) |
| DirectX Support | 11.1 (limited 12) |
| OpenGL Support | 4.0/4.3 |
| Max Resolution (HDMI) | 4096 × 2160 |
| Power Use | ~45W TDP (with CPU) |
Driver Updates in 2025
Keeping your Intel HD Graphics 4600 drivers up to date is key for best performance in 2025. Even though Intel has stopped regular updates, you can still find and install the right drivers using several methods.
Method 1: Windows Device Manager
This built-in Windows tool offers a simple way to check for driver updates:
- Press Win+X and choose “Device Manager”
- Find “Display adapters” and click to expand
- Right-click on “Intel HD Graphics 4600”
- Select “Update driver” and follow the steps
- Restart your PC after updating
Method 2: Intel’s Website
For more reliable updates, go straight to the source:
- Visit Intel’s download center website
- Search for “Intel HD Graphics 4600”
- Select the driver that matches your Windows version
- Download the EXE or ZIP file
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen steps
- Restart your computer
Also Read: Intel Arc A380 Review: The Budget GPU Challenger in 2025
Gaming Performance in 2025
In 2025, the Intel HD Graphics 4600 can still run some games, but with limits. Don’t expect to play the latest AAA titles, but many older games and indies run fine with the right settings.
What Can It Run?
This aging GPU can handle about 25% of popular PC games at minimum settings, but only 7% at recommended settings. Here’s what to expect at different screen sizes:
| Resolution | Average FPS | Gaming Experience |
|---|---|---|
| 720p | 18-22 | Best for most games |
| 900p | ~14 | OK for older titles |
| 1080p | ~11 | Too slow for most games |
Best Games by Type
This GPU performs better with certain game types:
Action Games that Run Well:
- Assassin’s Creed (up to Black Flag)
- Batman Arkham Asylum
- Tomb Raider (2013)
Strategy Games with Good Performance:
- Civilization V
- Age of Empires II: DE
- XCOM: Enemy Unknown
Indie Games (Best Performance):
- Stardew Valley
- Hollow Knight
- Terraria
- Don’t Starve
Also Read: Intel Arc A770 Review 2025: A Comprehensive GPU Analysis
Performance Tips for Better Gaming
Make your Intel HD Graphics 4600 perform better by using these proven tips from my testing:
- Lower your resolution – 720p gives the best balance of looks and speed
- Turn off these settings first:
- Shadows (big performance boost)
- Anti-aliasing (smoother edges but very slow)
- Post-processing effects
- Use dual-channel RAM – two sticks work much better than one
- Close background programs before gaming
- Update drivers to the latest version
- Set Power Mode to “High Performance” in Windows
Limitations in 2025
This GPU has several limits you should know about in 2025. Understanding these helps set realistic expectations for what this aging GPU can handle.
Main Drawbacks:
- No dedicated memory – relies on system RAM
- Struggles with modern games released after 2020
- Limited DirectX 12 support
- No ray tracing or AI upscaling features
- No official Windows 11 driver support
Comparison with Other Graphics
How does the Intel HD Graphics 4600 stack up against other options in 2025? Here’s a quick comparison:
| GPU | Performance vs HD 4600 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Intel HD 4000 | 30% slower | Previous generation |
| Intel HD 620 | 32% faster | Newer architecture |
| NVIDIA GT 710 | Slightly faster | Entry-level dedicated card |
| AMD Radeon HD 6850 | Much faster | Older dedicated card |
Modern Uses in 2025
The Intel HD Graphics 4600 still works well for many tasks in 2025. While not ideal for new games or heavy work, it’s perfect for:
- Office work – handles Word, Excel, and PowerPoint with ease
- Web browsing – loads modern websites smoothly
- Video watching – plays up to 4K videos
- Light photo editing – basic Photoshop tasks work fine
- Indie games – runs thousands of 2D and simpler 3D games
- Coding – perfect for programming environments
- Education – handles learning software and virtual classrooms
Also Read: Intel Core i5-8500 Review: A 2025 Performance Analysis & Gaming Guide
Wrapping UP
The Intel HD Graphics 4600 remains useful in 2025 for basic tasks and some gaming. While it shows its age with newer software, keeping drivers updated and using performance tips can extend its life. This GPU is ideal for budget systems, office work, and casual gaming with older or indie titles.
