VKERROROUTOFHOSTMEMORY

VK_ERROR_OUT_OF_HOST_MEMORY is a Vulkan VkResult value indicating that a host (CPU) memory allocation has failed. It is reported when the Vulkan implementation cannot allocate memory from the host to fulfill a request, whether for creating objects, backing resources, or internal driver needs. This error is distinct from VK_ERROR_OUT_OF_DEVICE_MEMORY, which signals a failure to allocate device-local memory on the GPU.

The error can occur during various Vulkan operations that require host-side allocations, such as resource creation (for example vkCreateInstance, vkCreateDevice, vkAllocateMemory, or vkCreateBuffer), as well as during memory mapping or when an allocation callback (VkAllocationCallbacks) provided by the application cannot fulfill a request. It typically indicates that available system memory is exhausted, fragmented, or otherwise unavailable to satisfy the allocation at that moment.

Handling and mitigation focus on managing host memory usage and allocations. If VK_ERROR_OUT_OF_HOST_MEMORY is reported, the application should consider freeing unused resources, reducing the number or size of allocations, and validating memory management patterns to avoid leaks. If a custom allocator is used via VkAllocationCallbacks, verify its behavior and performance characteristics. In some environments, enabling proper memory measurement and debugging tools can help identify leaks or fragmentation. If the issue persists, reviewing system memory pressure or upgrading hardware may be necessary.

See also VK_ERROR_OUT_OF_DEVICE_MEMORY, VK_ERROR_MEMORY_MAP_FAILED, and related VkResult codes for memory-related failures.