The DirectX Shader Cache is a special cache location in Windows that stores compiled shaders so that it’s easier to retrieve them when needed. The shader cache makes your games and applications that use DirectX load faster. In case you don’t know, compiling shaders is a pretty resource-intensive task.
While the cache is pretty useful in day-to-day usage, there will be times when you need to delete it. For instance, if you are seeing frequent graphics glitches or your games and applications are loading slowly, cleaning up the DirectX shader cache will help tremendously. Additionally, it can also help free up space in your C drive.
In this tutorial, I will show two methods to clear the DirectX shader cache from Windows 10 and 11. Both methods are simple to execute. So, follow the one you like.
Before You Begin
DirectX shader cache is directly managed by Windows. That means, once you clear the shader cache, it will be recreated as you use applications and play games. That’s how it works. You don’t have to re-create the cache manually.
Two Methods to Clear DirectX Shader Cache
1. Clear DirectX Shader Cache Using Settings
1. First, press the Start button and then click on the Gear icon to open settings in Windows 10/11.
2. Go to the System > Storage page in the Settings window.
3. Click on the Temporary Files option under the “Storage” section.
4. Select the DirectX Shader Cache checkbox at the bottom and uncheck all other boxes.
5. Scroll to the top and click the Remove Files button.
6. Click the Continue button.
As soon as you click the button, the shader cache is cleared.
2. Use the Disk Cleanup Tool to Delete DirectX Shader Cache
1. Press the Start button, search for Disk Cleanup, and click on the top result to open the Disk Cleanup tool
2. Once it opens, select the C drive drive from the dropdown menu and click OK.
3. Select the DirectX Shader Cache checkbox and uncheck all other boxes.
4. Click OK.
5. Click the Delete Files button.
That’s it. You’ve deleted the DirectX shader cache.
Wrapping Up – Clearing DirectX Shader Cache on Windows
Whether you use the Settings app or Disk Cleanup tool, the process is entirely simple and seamless. Whenever you see graphics glitches or performance issues with your games, the first thing you should do before doing anything is clear the shader cache. In real-world situations, it will help you fix a lot of trivial issues.
If you have any questions, comment below and I will answer.
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