GPU performance in Illustrator

Learn all about the GPU Performance in Illustrator.

The Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) is a specialized processor that can rapidly execute commands for manipulating and displaying images. With GPU Performance, Illustrator gets a performance boost and runs faster and more smoothly.

GPU Performance settings

With the latest version of Illustrator, the GPU Performance is enabled by default. To access the following GPU options, go to Edit > Preferences > Performance.

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Change the GPU performance settings in a few simple steps.

Illustrator Preferences panel with Performance options
GPU Performace settings in the Preferences panel

  • GPU Performance: Enable or disable GPU Performance feature.
  • Animated Zoom: Enables smoother zoom and animation.
  • Show System Info: Opens the System Info panel, which displays Illustrator's software and hardware environment.
  • Undo Counts: Select the number of times a user can undo the performed actions in Illustrator. You can select 50, 100, or 200  from the drop-down list.
  • Real-Time Drawing and Editing: Experience real-time drawing and editing. If there is a lag, the experience changes to non-real-time.

If you see a lag in Illustrator performance due to your GPU card, you can either disable GPU Performance or change preview mode to Preview with CPU in Illustrator.

Disable GPU Performance

Follow these steps to disable GPU Performance in Illustrator:

  1. Open the Preferences panel (Press Ctrl+K or choose Edit > Preferences).

  2. In the Performance tab, uncheck GPU Performance to disable the feature.

Change preview mode

Follow any of these options to switch between GPU and CPU preview modes:

  • GPU Preview: Choose View > GPU Preview.

  • CPU Preview: Choose View > Preview on CPU.

To further enhance Illustrator performance based on your operating system, refer to improve Illustrator performance on Windows or macOS.


Still Facing issues with your GPU card?

If you continue to face issues with your GPU card, update GPU drivers. Refer to troubleshoot GPU performance to learn how to fix miscellaneous performance issues.

Have a question or an idea?

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If you have a question to ask or an idea to share, come and participate in Adobe Illustrator Community. We would love to hear from you and see your creations.

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