Home News DirectX 11 vs. 12: Ultimate Showdown for Enhanced PC Gaming

DirectX 11 vs. 12: Ultimate Showdown for Enhanced PC Gaming

Author : Finn Feb 22,2025

Ready or Not: DirectX 11 vs. DirectX 12 – Which Should You Choose?

Many modern games offer DirectX 11 and 12 options, and Ready or Not is no exception. This choice can be confusing, especially for less tech-savvy players. While DirectX 12 is newer and potentially offers better performance, DirectX 11 is often considered more stable. So, which is right for you?

Understanding DirectX 11 and DirectX 12

Simply put, both DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 act as translators between your computer and the game, helping your GPU render visuals.

DirectX 11, being older, is simpler for developers to implement. However, it doesn't fully utilize CPU and GPU resources, potentially limiting performance. Its widespread adoption stems from its ease of use.

DirectX 12, the newer option, is more efficient at utilizing system resources, providing developers with greater optimization capabilities for enhanced performance. However, its complexity requires more development effort to fully leverage its benefits.

DirectX 11 or DirectX 12 for Ready or Not?

A photo of the Soft Objectives in Hide and Seek in Ready or Not as part of an article about the DirectX 11 and DirectX 12.

Screenshot via The Escapist
The optimal choice depends on your system's specifications. Modern, high-end systems with strong DirectX 12 support will likely benefit from DirectX 12's more efficient resource utilization, leading to improved framerates, smoother gameplay, and potentially better graphics.

Conversely, older systems may experience instability or performance issues with DirectX 12. For older hardware, DirectX 11's stability is preferable.

In short: Modern systems should opt for DirectX 12 for potentially better performance; older systems should stick with the more stable DirectX 11.

Related: Complete List of Soft Objectives in Ready or Not

Setting Your Rendering Mode in Ready or Not

The DirectX selection (DX11 or DX12) is usually presented upon game launch via Steam. Simply choose your preferred rendering mode at this prompt. Newer PCs should select DX12; older PCs, DX11.

If this prompt doesn't appear, follow these steps:

  1. Right-click Ready or Not in your Steam library and select "Properties."
  2. Navigate to the "General" tab.
  3. Use the "Launch Options" dropdown menu to select your desired rendering mode (DX11 or DX12).

Ready or Not is currently available on PC.

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