NVIDIA and AMD Drivers: A Safe Update Strategy
Driver changes can fix bugs or introduce new behavior. Treat them as a troubleshooting variable rather than assuming every new version is faster.
Last reviewed: September 2026 · PCTweaker Editorial
Download from the manufacturer
Use NVIDIA or AMD's official support pages for your GPU model. Avoid third-party driver bundles and modified packages unless you have a specific, well-understood reason.
Record your current version
Before updating, note the installed driver version and any custom graphics settings. This makes rollback and troubleshooting easier.
Test the games you actually play
After a driver change, reproduce the same benchmark or gameplay sequence. Check average FPS, 1% lows, frametime behavior, crashes and visual problems.
Clean installation is a troubleshooting tool
If you have persistent driver problems, a clean driver installation can help isolate corrupted or conflicting components. It should not be treated as a guaranteed performance upgrade.
Keep a rollback path
If a new driver causes a regression in your games, use the manufacturer's supported rollback process or reinstall the previously working driver.