Home News DirectX 11 vs. DirectX 12: Which is Superior?

DirectX 11 vs. DirectX 12: Which is Superior?

by Sophia May 08,2025

Every modern game, including *Ready or Not*, offers the choice between DirectX 11 and DirectX 12, which can be confusing if you're not tech-savvy. DirectX 12 is newer and might offer better performance, but DirectX 11 is often more stable. So, which should you choose?

DirectX 11 and DirectX 12, Explained

In simple terms, both DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 act as translators between your computer and games, aiding your GPU in rendering visuals and scenes.

DirectX 11 is an older, simpler version that's easier for developers to implement. However, it doesn't fully utilize your CPU and GPU resources, which means it can't maximize your system's performance. Its popularity stems from its ease of use and implementation.

DirectX 12, being newer, is more efficient at using CPU and GPU resources. It offers developers numerous optimization options, allowing them to fine-tune games for better performance. However, it's more complex to work with, requiring additional effort to leverage its full potential.

Should You Use 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 decision hinges on your system's capabilities. If you have a modern, high-end system with a graphics card that supports DirectX 12 well, opting for DirectX 12 could be beneficial. It efficiently utilizes GPU and CPU resources, distributing the workload across different CPU cores, which can enhance performance, frame rates, and even graphics quality. Better frames might mean fewer deaths (or not).

However, DirectX 12 may not be suitable for older systems and could cause more issues than benefits. If your system is older, sticking with DirectX 11 is advisable, as it tends to be more stable on such hardware. While DirectX 12 promises better performance, it can lead to problems on older PCs.

In summary, if you're running a modern system, DirectX 12 is likely the better choice for improved resource utilization and performance. For older systems, DirectX 11 remains the more stable option.

Related: All Soft Objectives in Ready or Not, Listed

How To Set Your Rendering Mode in Ready or Not

When launching *Ready or Not* on Steam, you'll be prompted to choose your Rendering Mode between DX11 and DX12. If you have a newer PC, select DX12; for an older PC, choose DX11.

If this window doesn't appear, follow these steps to set it manually:

  • In your Steam Library, right-click on *Ready Or Not* and select Properties.
  • A new window will open; click on the General tab, then the Launch Options drop-down menu.
  • From the drop-down menu, select your preferred Rendering Mode.

*Ready or Not is available now for PC.*

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