Overview – Clear DirectX Shader Cache
DirectX Shader Cache is a cache system, especially for storing shaders that are used to improve the performance of games and programs utilizing by lowering the amount of time it takes for an image or video to render on the screen.
It seems that DirectX has accumulated excessive Shader Cache on your computer, resulting in high storage consumption or some of your programs dependent on DirectX Shader Cache are malfunctioning. That’s most likely why you’re interested in learning more about it.
By the end of this article, you’ll be able to clear DirectX Shader Cache in Windows:
NOTE: After clearing the shader cache using any method, the cache will be rebuilt depending on the level of caching an application utilizes.
1. Clear DirectX Shader Cache via Windows Settings
Step 1: Open the Windows Settings from the Start menu or press the “Windows key + I” key combination on the keyboard.
Step 2: Select the “System” option from the left sidebar and click the “Storage” button on the right pane.
Step 3: Click the “Cleanup Recommendations” option under the storage management section.
Step 4: Expand the temporary files tab and click the “See advanced options” button to view all temporary files.
Step 5: To clear the DirectX Shader cache., check the “DirectX Shader Cache” option and click the “Remove Files” button on the top.
2. Clear DirectX Shader Cache via Disk Cleanup
Step 1: In the Start menu, type “Disk Cleanup” and run it as an administrator.
Step 2: Select the Main Drive from the dropdown menu and click the “OK” button.
Step 3: In the “Disk Cleanup” tab, check the “DirectX Shader Cache” option and click the “OK” button to clean it.
3. Clear DirectX Shader Cache via Storage Sense
Step 1: Open the “Windows Settings” from the Start menu or press the “Windows + I” key combination.
Step 2: Select the “System” option from the left sidebar and click the “Storage” button.
Step 3: Toggle on the “Storage Sense” button. The next time storage sense scans and cleans unnecessary files on your computer, the DirectX Shader Cache will be removed.
Read More: How To Configure Storage Sense after enabling it.
FAQs Related to DirectX Shader Cache
Is it OK to clear DirectX Shader Cache?
Yes, deleting the shader cache on Windows is completely OK. As you continue to use programs that collect DirectX Shader Cache, it will be automatically regenerated based on the program’s usage.
Should I clear DirectX Shader Cache?
DirectX Shader Cache is used by some programs, especially games, to render graphics and load assets quickly. It will be automatically regenerated if it is removed. You can erase the DirectX Shader Cache if you believe it is too large or corrupt.
Does Shader Cache increase performance?
The DirectX Shader cache can improve load times and minimize stuttering in programs that utilize it, but it won’t boost FPS, refresh rate, or any other aspect of the program.
Next Steps
In this article, we’ve covered how to clean DirectX Shader Cache in Windows. You can choose any method from the ones described above that you find simple to follow and implement.
You need not worry about the DirectX Shader Cache unless it consumes a lot of storage on your hard drive or you notice the programs relying on DirectX crashing or misbehaving.
Further, configure your computer’s settings for more customizations by following the related articles below.
Related Articles
Check DirectX Version in Windows 11
While gaming or watching 4K movies, DirectX plays a significant part in rendering visuals. Check if your computer possesses the latest and compatible version of DirectX.
Remove Volume Shadow Copies (VSS) in Windows 11
Has your computer gathered a large amount of VSS Copies? Learn how to remove it and save some storage on your computer.
Clear Cache in Windows 11 Completely
Increase the disk space on your computer by clearing the cache files in Windows completely.
Auto Clean Temp Files in Windows
Automate the cleaning of temporary files in Windows, so you can focus on other important tasks rather than computer maintenance.
