DXRcapable

DXRcapable is a term used to describe hardware, specifically graphics processing units (GPUs), that support Microsoft's DirectX Raytracing (DXR) API. DXR is a DirectX 12 feature that allows developers to implement real-time ray tracing in video games and other graphics applications. Ray tracing is a rendering technique that simulates the physical behavior of light, allowing for more realistic lighting, reflections, and shadows compared to traditional rasterization methods.

For a GPU to be DXRcapable, it must possess the necessary architectural features and driver support to execute ray tracing workloads efficiently. This typically includes dedicated hardware units designed for ray tracing operations, such as ray-triangle intersection testing. The introduction of DXR capability marked a significant advancement in real-time graphics, enabling a new level of visual fidelity.

When a GPU is DXRcapable, it can leverage DXR to enhance visual elements in compatible software. This can manifest as more accurate global illumination, sharp and realistic reflections on surfaces, and soft shadows that realistically convey the interaction of light with objects. The performance impact of enabling DXR features can vary depending on the GPU's power and the complexity of the ray tracing implementation. Developers often provide options to adjust the quality or disable ray tracing effects to accommodate a wider range of hardware. The presence of DXR capability is a key consideration for consumers looking to experience the latest advancements in gaming visuals.