Choosing between Vulkan and DirectX 11 for Baldur’s Gate 3 can feel like a daunting task, especially with the game’s stunning visuals and intricate mechanics at stake. Each graphics API offers distinct advantages depending on your hardware and gaming preferences. While Vulkan promises higher performance and smoother gameplay for those with advanced setups, DirectX 11 provides a more stable experience, particularly for players on older systems. This guide will delve into the nuances of both options, helping you make an informed decision that enhances your journey through the Sword Coast.
This page was created based on the author’s personal experience and the accounts of gamers and media representatives available online. Although the community consensus might be to choose a specific API in specific situations, remember the PC’s open nature can drastically affect your experience. Before making your final choice, it’s worth trying out both available options and deciding based on your own experience.
How to change API?
To change the API in Baldur’s Gate 3, you need to access the Larian Studios Launcher right after starting the game. Under the “Play” button, you will see two options: DirectX 11, which is the default setting, and Vulkan. Simply select the dot next to your preferred API before launching the game by clicking “Play.” This selection must be made prior to starting the game, as you won’t have the option to change it once gameplay has begun. If you wish to switch APIs after launching, you’ll need to exit and relaunch the launcher window to make your choice again.
You can change your API right after starting the game, in the Larian Studios Launcher. There are two available options under the “Play” button. DirectX 11 is chosen by default. Mark the dot next to Vulkan to switch to it.
After selecting your preferred API, launch the game by clicking “Play”.
Which API to choose?
Choosing between Vulkan and DirectX 11 for Baldur’s Gate 3 can significantly impact your gaming experience, depending on your hardware configuration. DirectX 11 is generally recommended for Nvidia graphics cards, offering better stability and performance, particularly when utilizing features like DLSS for enhanced frame rates. Conversely, Vulkan is often the preferred choice for AMD GPUs, as it can yield higher average frame rates, albeit with some potential stability issues. If you’re using a Steam Deck, DirectX 11 is advisable due to compatibility challenges with Vulkan. Ultimately, testing both APIs on your specific setup may help you determine which one provides the best performance and visual quality for your gameplay.
Information gathered by the press and players seems to suggest some graphics cards work better with DirectX 11, while others with Vulkan. Your choice should therefore depend on your PC’s GPU model.
Nvidia graphics cards
If your PC uses an Nvidia graphics card (RTX or GTX), DirectX 11 seems to be the better choice right now. Many players and journalists claim their performance was slightly better when pairing Nvidia cards with DirectX 11.
If you’re using a compatible RTX card, you can also utilize the DLSS tech implemented in the game. It will make the game run more smoothly while not sacrificing much graphical quality. You’ll find DLSS settings in the “Graphics” tab in the main menu.
AMD and Intel graphics cards
Players using AMD’s Radeon cards and Intel cards may be interested in the Vulkan API. Players and media seem to agree on it positively affecting the game’s performance.
Although DLSS is a proprietary technology by Nvidia only available on select RTX cards, players using GTX, Radeon and Intel cards can still enable upscaling through the AMD FSR option. Though simpler, this system can still result in a few extra FPS.
Steam Deck
How does Vulkan perform on lower-end PCs compared to DX11
When comparing the performance of Vulkan and DirectX 11 (DX11) on lower-end PCs, several factors come into play that can significantly affect gameplay in Baldur’s Gate 3.
Performance Overview
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General Performance:
- DX11 tends to perform better on lower-end systems, particularly those equipped with Nvidia graphics cards, delivering frame rates that are generally 6-13% higher than Vulkan. This is largely due to its mature optimization and stability, making it a preferred choice for users with older hardware.
- Vulkan, while offering better performance on high-end systems, may not provide the same level of stability on lower-end configurations. It can lead to more significant frame rate dips during demanding scenes, especially in environments populated with NPCs.
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Frame Rate Stability:
- On lower-end PCs, DX11 often results in smoother gameplay with fewer fluctuations in frame rates. While Vulkan may offer higher average FPS in static scenes, its performance can degrade in more complex scenarios, leading to a less consistent experience.
- Users have reported that Vulkan can sometimes introduce visual artifacts and crashes that are less common with DX11, further emphasizing DX11’s reliability for those with limited hardware capabilities.
Specific Hardware Considerations
- Nvidia Graphics Cards: For users with Nvidia GPUs, DX11 is typically the better option due to its superior optimization and performance consistency at lower settings.
- AMD Graphics Cards: Vulkan may perform better on AMD systems, particularly in terms of average frame rates. However, it still struggles with stability compared to DX11 when the system is under load.
- Intel Graphics Cards: Intel users have found that while DX11 provides better performance overall, Vulkan can outperform it under specific conditions where high frame rates are prioritized.
Conclusion
For gamers using lower-end PCs, especially those with Nvidia GPUs or older hardware configurations, DirectX 11 is generally the recommended choice for a smoother and more stable gaming experience in Baldur’s Gate 3. Vulkan may offer advantages in certain scenarios but often at the cost of consistency and stability.
Which API is better for older games on low-end PCs
When it comes to older games running on low-end PCs, DirectX 11 (DX11) generally outperforms Vulkan for several reasons:
Performance and Stability
- DX11 is specifically designed with stability in mind, particularly for older hardware. It has been optimized over many years, making it a reliable choice for smooth gameplay in older titles. Users often report higher frame rates and fewer performance dips compared to Vulkan when using lower-end systems.
- Vulkan, while offering better performance on high-end setups, can struggle with stability on lower-end PCs. This can lead to inconsistent frame rates and potential visual artifacts, especially in more demanding scenes.
Compatibility
- DX11 has strong integration with Windows systems and is widely supported by many older games. This makes it the preferred choice for gamers unsure about their hardware specifications or those using legacy systems.
- Vulkan, being a newer and cross-platform API, may not be as well-optimized for older games, which can lead to performance issues on less capable hardware. It is better suited for modern titles that can take advantage of its advanced features.
Conclusion
For gamers looking to play older titles on low-end PCs, DirectX 11 is the better option due to its stability, mature optimization, and compatibility with a wide range of hardware. Vulkan may provide advantages in specific scenarios but is less reliable for older games on constrained systems.
