What is a graphics renderer?
A graphics renderer, also known as a graphics library, is a software tool commonly used in video games and simulations to facilitate the display of images or graphics on a computer screen.
When using BlueStacks, you have the option to select graphics libraries like Vulkan and/or OpenGL for Android Pie, Android 11 and Android 13.
NOTE: We recommend using Vulkan + OpenGL as the Graphics Renderer for broader app compatibility since most games these days require Vulkan.
If you're using a Nougat 32-bit or Nougat 64-bit version, the available graphics libraries are OpenGL and DirectX.
Important:
Going forward from BlueStacks 5 version 5.22.70 or above:
• Only Vulkan and OpenGL will be available for Android Pie, Android 11 and Android 13.
• For Nougat 32-bit and Nougat 64-bit, the available graphics libraries are OpenGL and DirectX.
If you're on BlueStacks 5 version 5.22.51 or below:
• Android Pie, Android 11 and Android 13 instances will have OpenGL, DirectX, Vulkan.
• For Nougat 32-bit and Nougat 64-bit instances, you can choose between OpenGL and DirectX.
Which graphics renderer should I select?
While most games function smoothly with the default settings (Vulkan & OpenGL) on BlueStacks 5, selecting a graphics renderer depends largely on the game you're playing.
Certain games such as War Robots Multiplayer Battles, Solar Smash, Family Island™ — Farming game and others, may require specific graphics settings for optimal performance.
If your current BlueStacks settings do not align with those required by an application, BlueStacks will prompt you with a pop-up to switch the renderer for an enhanced experience, as shown in the image below.
To read more about graphics settings on BlueStacks, please refer to this article.
Thank you for choosing BlueStacks 5. We hope you enjoy using it. Happy Gaming!