The 3DMark API Overhead feature test measures draw call performance across graphics APIs on PC. It pits Vulkan and DirectX 12 against DirectX 11 to highlight differences in efficiency. Released in 2015 alongside Windows 10 and DirectX 12, this utility benchmark reveals how low-level APIs handle rendering calls.
Though no longer supported, the test offers a snapshot of API evolution, where draw call speed once set APIs apart but now yields to factors like feature support and compatibility. Developers and hardware enthusiasts run it to compare performance baselines. Utilities like this appeal to those benchmarking graphics hardware and optimizing API choices.
This test is no longer supported.
The 3DMark API Overhead feature test was released in 2015 to coincide with the launch of Windows 10 and DirectX 12. The test compares the draw call performance of graphics APIs. At launch, this was the most significant difference between older APIs and new, low-level APIs like DirectX 12 and Vulkan. Today, developers are more likely to choose a graphics API based on feature support and compatibility. Draw call performance is no longer the deciding factor.
API Overhead feature test
- Compare API performance on your PC
- Test Vulkan, DirectX 12 and DirectX 11
