Home News DirectX 11 v. DirectX 12: Which Reigns Supreme?

DirectX 11 v. DirectX 12: Which Reigns Supreme?

by Dylan Feb 25,2025

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

Many modern games offer both DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 options, and Ready or Not is no exception. This choice can be confusing, especially for less technically inclined 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 translators between your computer and the game, facilitating GPU rendering of 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, leveraging CPU and GPU resources more effectively. It provides developers with greater optimization control 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 specifications. Modern, high-end systems with strong DirectX 12 compatible graphics cards will likely benefit from DirectX 12's efficiency, experiencing improved frame rates, smoother gameplay, and potentially enhanced visuals.

Conversely, older systems might encounter 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 better resource utilization and performance. Older systems should stick with the more stable DirectX 11.

Setting Your Rendering Mode in Ready or Not

Upon launching Ready or Not via Steam, you'll be prompted to select your rendering mode (DX11 or DX12). Simply choose your preferred option based on the guidelines above.

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. In the "Launch Options" field, specify your desired rendering mode (e.g., -dx11 or -dx12).

Ready or Not is currently available on PC.