D3d_feature_level !!top!! -
Feature levels are backward compatible. A GPU supporting level 11_0 also supports all lower levels (10_0, 10_1, 9_x). Below is the official hierarchy (from lowest to highest):
Note: This paper assumes familiarity with COM and basic Direct3D concepts. For code examples, error handling is omitted for brevity. d3d_feature_level
In Direct3D, a feature level represents a set of capabilities and features that a graphics device supports. It's a way to describe the level of functionality and performance that a device can offer. Think of it as a way to categorize devices based on their graphics processing capabilities. Feature levels are backward compatible