How to Check BIOS Version on a Gaming Laptop

What the BIOS version and date mean

The BIOS, or basic input/output system, is the firmware that starts the laptop before Windows loads. On modern laptops this firmware is UEFI, and Windows 11 requires system firmware that is UEFI and Secure Boot capable, per Microsoft's specification page. The BIOS version and date identify the exact firmware build installed on the laptop.

A version string usually combines a maker code and a build number, and the date shows when that build was released. When the laptop maker publishes a newer build, the version and date let you confirm which build the laptop currently runs before you decide to update. The update process is covered in how to update the BIOS and drivers.

Read the version in Windows System Information

Open the Start menu, type System Information, and open the app. In the System Summary page, the line labeled BIOS Version/Date shows the firmware version string and the release date. This method works while Windows is running and does not require a restart.

The same page includes a BIOS Mode line. Windows 11 requires UEFI and Secure Boot capable firmware (Microsoft). If the mode reads UEFI and Secure Boot is enabled, the laptop meets that part of the Windows 11 requirement. See how to enable Secure Boot for the next step.

The System Information window also lists the baseboard manufacturer and baseboard product, which help you identify the exact laptop model when you need to visit the maker's support page. Compare those names with the product name printed on the bottom panel or shown in the laptop's own settings.

Read the version from the Command Prompt

You can also read the version from the Command Prompt. Open the Command Prompt and type one of the standard firmware query commands, such as wmic bios get smbiosbiosversion or systeminfo. The output lists the BIOS version and date.

The same output often names the firmware manufacturer. That name tells you which utility or support page to use when a firmware update is planned. The laptop maker's manual is a good place to confirm the exact command and the update path; see find the manual and drivers.

If the Command Prompt shows a version that differs from the one in System Information, check whether the laptop has multiple firmware records. In most cases the two tools read the same UEFI data, but some older versions of Windows may cache the information until a restart.

Read the version in the BIOS setup screen

Restart the laptop and press the key displayed during startup, often Del, F2, or Esc, to enter the BIOS setup screen. The main page usually shows the BIOS version and date at the top or in an information area. This method works even if Windows will not start.

The setup screen also shows the firmware mode and Secure Boot state. Windows 11 requires UEFI and Secure Boot capable firmware (Microsoft). While you are in the setup screen, you can view the version and date without changing any settings; exit without saving when you are done.

The setup screen may display the version in a different format than Windows does, so write down both the version string and the date. Some makers include a build number that Windows omits, which can be useful when comparing an update file.

How the BIOS ties to Windows 11 and Secure Boot

Gaming laptops that ship with Windows 11 already use UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability, per Microsoft's system requirements. The BIOS version and date identify that firmware build, and the BIOS Mode line confirms whether the firmware is running in UEFI mode.

The firmware version is independent of both the processor model and the graphics card model. Intel and NVIDIA publish their own naming guides for processors and laptop GPUs (Intel, NVIDIA); the BIOS version has its own string and date, so a processor or GPU generation does not tell you the firmware build.

What to do with the version and date

Compare the installed version and date with the latest build listed on the laptop maker's support page. If the installed build is older, a firmware update may be available. The update file and steps are specific to the model; the maker's official specifications page and manual list the correct source. See check official specifications.

A firmware update is not required just because a graphics driver was updated; the two updates are separate. The BIOS version and date are useful when you plan a firmware update, when Windows reports a firmware or security warning, or when you add or replace internal hardware. For hardware changes, see upgradeable RAM and SSD.

• You plan a firmware update from the maker's support page (update BIOS and drivers).
• Windows shows a Secure Boot or TPM warning (gaming laptop TPM).
• You add or replace an SSD or RAM (upgradeable RAM and SSD).
• The laptop fails to start and you need the setup screen (firmware update bricked).

When checking the BIOS version matters for gamers

For most gaming laptops, the BIOS version is not a specification you compare while shopping. The model's processor, graphics card, memory, storage, and screen determine what you get. The BIOS version only matters after you own the laptop, and it becomes relevant when a firmware update is needed for hardware support, security, or a Windows feature.

If you play across multiple title categories, you may update drivers often and occasionally check the BIOS to confirm the firmware is current. Competitive shooters may want Secure Boot enabled and the latest firmware security patches. Streamers and creators often add storage or memory, so they check the BIOS when a new drive is installed. See how to use gaming laptop performance software for related settings.

The BIOS version does not replace a graphics driver update. NVIDIA lists driver types on its GeForce pages (NVIDIA), and the BIOS is a separate part of the laptop. A firmware update does not raise the graphics memory limit or change the processor speed. It can fix boot and compatibility issues, which is why the date and version are worth recording.

What to pick for your play

Questions

Where is the BIOS version shown in Windows?

In System Information, the BIOS Version/Date line shows the version string and release date. The Command Prompt can also list the same information.

Can I check the BIOS version without restarting?

Yes. System Information and the Command Prompt both read the firmware information while Windows is running.

Is the BIOS the same as UEFI?

Modern gaming laptops use UEFI firmware, and Windows 11 requires UEFI with Secure Boot capability (Microsoft). The version and date still identify the firmware build.

Does checking the BIOS version change any settings?

No. Reading the version only displays information. In the setup screen, you can exit without saving changes.

Do I need to check the BIOS before updating a graphics driver?

No. Driver updates and firmware updates are separate. The BIOS version matters when you plan a firmware update.

Does a MacBook Air have a BIOS?

The MacBook Air runs macOS, per Apple's specifications (Apple), and does not use the same Windows firmware procedures. The methods in this article apply to Windows gaming laptops.