Apply ArcGIS Pro rendering engine settings based on the computer hardware capability

Summary

Think of a rendering engine as a translator. ArcGIS Pro speaks one language, and the computer’s screen (specifically the graphics card) speaks another. The rendering engine sits in the middle, translating the map data into the pictures, lines, and 3D scenes that are actually seen on the computer monitor.

Procedure

Check what the computer can handle

Before choosing a setting in ArcGIS Pro, it helps to know what the computer can handle. Windows has a quick, built-in tool to check this.

1. Press the Windows Key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog.
2. Type dxdiag into the box and press Enter. If a small window pops up asking a yes/no question, just click Yes.
3. A window called the DirectX Diagnostic Tool opens. On the first page (the System tab), look at the very bottom for DirectX Version. It will usually say DirectX 12 or 11.
4. Next, click the Display tab at the top. Look on the right side under Drivers for Feature Levels. This list of numbers (like 12_0 or 11_1) tells you exactly what your physical hardware can handle.

Choose the ArcGIS Pro setting

Now that it is known what the computer supports, set the display settings in ArcGIS Pro - found under Project > Options > Display.

• DirectX 12: The modern default
  • What it is: The newest, fastest translator. It is designed to use modern computers to their fullest potential.
  • When to pick it: If the dxdiag tool showed DirectX 12 and your Feature Levels included 12_0 or higher. This is the best choice for newer computers, enabling 3D maps and large files to load as quickly as possible.
• DirectX 11: The reliable backup
  • What it is: The older, highly tested translator. It isn't quite as fast as DirectX 12, but it is incredibly stable and works on almost everything.
  • When to pick it: If the computer is a few years old, or if the Feature Levels maxed out at 11_1 or 11_0.
  • The Problem Solver: The go-to fix for visual glitches in ArcGIS Pro, like missing labels, weird colors, or maps that refuse to draw. If DirectX 12 is acting up, switch to DirectX 11.
• OpenGL: The emergency fallback
  • What it is: A completely different type of translator that doesn't rely on the standard Windows systems.
  • When to pick it: Use this only if the other two options cause ArcGIS Pro to crash entirely, or when running the software on a virtual machine (a simulated computer, often used in large companies). It is a great backup plan when the computer's graphics drivers are failing.

Summary

• If this is a newer computer and everything looks fine, use DirectX 12.
• When seeing weird visual bugs, missing map layers are obcerved, or when using an older computer, switch to DirectX 11.
• If the software is crashing, or when using a virtual machine, try OpenGL.