What Is DirectX Shader Cache and How to Clear It

If you’re a PC gamer or someone who uses graphics-intensive applications, you might have heard about “DirectX Shader Cache.” But what exactly is it, and why does it matter? In this article, we’ll break down the basics of DirectX Shader Cache, how it works, and why it can improve the gaming and application experience.

What is DirectX Shader Cache?

DirectX Shader Cache is a feature in Windows that stores pre-compiled shader programs used by games and graphics applications. Shaders are small programs that run on your graphics card (GPU) to create all the visual effects you see on screen, like lighting, shadows, and textures.

When a game or app runs for the first time, it needs to compile these shaders from source code into a format your GPU understands. This compilation takes time and can cause stuttering or longer load times. DirectX Shader Cache saves these compiled shaders on your hard drive so the system can reuse them later, making your games load faster and run smoother.

Why does DirectX Shader Cache matter?

1. Faster Load Times: By caching shaders, your system avoids recompiling them every time you launch a game or app. This cuts down on wait times.

2. Smoother Gameplay: Reduces stuttering caused by real-time shader compilation during gameplay.

3. Better Performance: Overall, it helps your GPU focus on rendering graphics rather than compiling shaders on the fly.

Where is the Windows DirectX Shader Cache stored?

Windows DirectX Shader Cache files are typically stored in the following directories and are managed automatically by Windows and the graphics driver.

Is it safe to clear the Windows DirectX Shader Cache?

Yes, it is! Windows will rebuild the shader cache as you use your games and apps. Sometimes, shader cache files can get corrupted or take up too much disk space. Clearing the cache can help fix graphical glitches or free up storage. You can clear the shader cache using the built-in Windows Disk Cleanup tool:

Alternatively, you can use third-party PC optimization tools like Wise Care 365 and Wise Disk Cleaner to clean the DirectX Shader Cache easily and safely. Wise Care 365 offers a user-friendly interface and additional tools to keep your PC running smoothly.

Where Do NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel Store Their Shader Cache?

Below are the verified default locations for NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel GPU shader caches on Windows 10/11:

NVIDIA Shader Cache Location

Primary Path:

C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\NVIDIA\DXCache

C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\NVIDIA\GLCache

Key Details:

• Stores precompiled DirectX shaders to reduce game stuttering
• Cache size can reach multiple GBs for frequent gamers
• Pro Tip: Clear this folder if experiencing graphical glitches

AMD Shader Cache Locations

Default Paths:

C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\AMD\DXCache

C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\AMD\GLCache

Key Details:

• Separate folders for different graphics APIs
• Driver versions after 2023 may use AMDCache as unified storage
• Deleting cache forces regeneration but may cause temporary slowdowns

Intel Shader Cache Locations

Typical Paths:

C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\Intel\ShaderCache

C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\Intel\DXCache

Key Details:

• Primarily for Iris Xe and Arc GPU users
• Smaller cache sizes compared to discrete GPUs
• Location varies more between driver versions.

Differences Between GPU Vendor Caches and Windows System Cache

Bottomline

DirectX Shader Cache is an important part of how Windows and your GPU work together to deliver smooth, high-quality graphics. By storing compiled shaders, it speeds up load times and reduces in-game stutter, enhancing your overall experience.

The next time you notice a long game load time or experience stuttering during gameplay, clearing the shader cache and updating your graphics drivers can also help.