Ready or Not: What’s Better, DirectX 11 or DirectX 12 (DX11 vs. DX12)? %v

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

Many modern games offer both 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. Let's break down the differences.

Understanding DirectX 11 and DirectX 12

Simply put, both DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 act as intermediaries, enabling communication between your computer and the game. This includes facilitating GPU rendering of game 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, conversely, is newer and more efficient in harnessing CPU and GPU resources. It provides developers with extensive optimization options for enhanced performance. However, its complexity demands more development effort to fully realize its benefits.

Choosing the Right DirectX Version 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 capabilities. Modern, high-end systems with strong DirectX 12 support will likely benefit most from DirectX 12. Its efficient resource management can distribute workloads across multiple CPU cores, leading to improved frame rates, smoother gameplay, and potentially enhanced graphics.

Conversely, DirectX 12 isn't ideal for older systems and might even cause performance degradation. Older systems are better served by the stability of DirectX 11.

In summary: Modern systems should opt for DirectX 12 for superior resource utilization and potential performance gains. Older systems should stick with the stability of 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 typically presented upon launching the game via Steam. Simply choose your preferred rendering mode at this prompt. Newer PCs should select DX12; older PCs should choose DX11.

If this prompt doesn't appear, try this:

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

Ready or Not is currently available on PC.