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

DirectX 11 vs. DirectX 12: Which is Superior?

Author : Skylar Apr 17,2025

In the world of modern gaming, titles like *Ready or Not* come equipped with both DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 options. If you're not tech-savvy, choosing between them might seem daunting. DirectX 12 is newer and potentially offers better performance, but DirectX 11 remains a stable choice. Let's break down what these options mean and which one you should select for *Ready or Not*.

DirectX 11 and DirectX 12, Explained

In simple terms, both DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 serve as translators between your computer and the games you play. They assist your GPU in rendering the game's visuals and scenes.

DirectX 11 is older and easier for developers to implement. However, it doesn't fully leverage your CPU and GPU resources, which means it can't maximize your system's performance. Its widespread use stems from its simplicity and speed of implementation for developers.

DirectX 12, on the other hand, is newer and more efficient at utilizing CPU and GPU resources. It offers developers numerous optimization options, allowing them to fine-tune games for enhanced performance. Yet, it's more complex to work with, requiring additional effort to fully harness its benefits.

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're equipped with a modern, high-end system featuring a graphics card that supports DirectX 12 well, opting for DirectX 12 could be beneficial. It efficiently uses your GPU and CPU resources, distributing the workload across multiple CPU cores for better performance. This can lead to improved frame rates, smoother gameplay, and potentially enhanced graphics, which might just help you survive longer in the game.

However, DirectX 12 may not be the best choice for older systems, as it can cause more issues than benefits. For older PCs, sticking with DirectX 11 is advisable, as it's more stable and less likely to cause performance hiccups.

To sum up, if you have a modern system, DirectX 12 is the better choice for maximizing performance. For older systems, DirectX 11 is the safer, 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 select your Rendering Mode—either DX11 or DX12. If you have a newer PC, go for DX12; if your system is older, DX11 is the way to go.

If the selection window doesn't appear, here's how to set it:

  • In your Steam Library, right-click on *Ready or Not* and select Properties.
  • In the new window, navigate to the General tab and find the Launch Options drop-down menu.
  • From the drop-down menu, select your preferred Rendering Mode.

*Ready or Not is available now for PC.*