Also, it's important to understand that updating driver software isn't a quick fix to a slow computer and likely won't produce the performance improvements that these companies often claim.
In fact, updating some drivers, especially ones from untrustworthy sources, can cause more problems than they fix.
Many portray the problems they find as much worse than they actually are, making it seem like your computer is on the verge of crashing if you don't upgrade and update drivers.
Use these programs with caution and you should be fine.
We tested and reviewed the best driver update software because many of these programs provide an easier way for novices to update drivers if they find the Windows Update tool clunky.
After multiple rounds of tests, Smart Driver Updater came out on top as the best driver update software overall because it was the best at finding outdated drivers and providing trustworthy sources for updating them.
It's colorful and easy-to-navigate interface is both pleasant and easy to use.
It was also one of the best performing products in our test, finding 110 out of 277 outdated drivers. At about less than most driver update software, it was still one of the best performing apps in our tests. You have to be careful while installing it because it repeatedly tries to install additional apps to your computer – software that you probably don't want that can have a major impact on your PC's performance.
The fact is, you don't need driver update software.
For example, if you're unable to transfer files from a digital camera to your computer, it could be because the driver is out of date.
But, as mentioned, you can download the updated driver from the camera's manufacturer.
Windows has even defined driver update software as potentially unwanted programs (PUP software).
This is due, in part, to the fact that the Windows operating system can keeps your driver software current, and current drivers can be downloaded directly from manufacturer websites for free.