Photoshop has four primary GPU modes: CPU, D3D12, Metal, and Legacy OpenGL. Each mode has its benefits and drawbacks, and the best mode for you will depend on your specific hardware and workflow.

CPU Mode

CPU (Central Processing Unit) mode is the default mode for Photoshop on Windows. In this mode, Photoshop uses the CPU to perform all of its calculations, regardless of whether or not a GPU is available. While this mode is compatible with all systems, it is not the most efficient way to use Photoshop, as it can result in slower performance, especially when working with complex layers or filters.

D3D12 Mode

D3D12 (Direct3D 12) mode is the preferred mode for Photoshop on Windows. This mode uses the DirectX 12 API to communicate with the GPU, which can provide significant performance improvements over CPU mode. D3D12 mode is particularly beneficial for working with features such as Neural Filters, object selection, and zoom/magnify.

Metal Mode

Metal mode is the preferred mode for Photoshop on macOS. This mode uses the Metal API to communicate with the GPU, which can provide similar performance improvements over CPU mode as D3D12 mode. Metal mode is particularly beneficial for working with features such as Neural Filters, object selection, and zoom/magnify.

Legacy OpenGL Mode

Legacy OpenGL mode is the oldest GPU mode in Photoshop. This mode uses the older OpenGL API to communicate with the GPU, which can result in slower performance than the other modes. Legacy OpenGL mode is recommended for older systems that do not support D3D12 or Metal.

Choosing the Right GPU Mode

The best GPU mode for you will depend on your specific hardware and workflow. If you have a newer system with a good graphics card, then you should use D3D12 mode or Metal mode. If you have an older system or a graphics card that does not support D3D12 or Metal, then you can use CPU mode or Legacy OpenGL mode.

Adjusting GPU Acceleration

You can adjust the level of GPU acceleration used by Photoshop in the Performance panel of the Preferences dialog box. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open Photoshop.
2. Go to Edit > Preferences > Performance (Windows) or Photoshop > Preferences > Performance (macOS).
3. In the Graphics Processor Settings section, select the All option to enable GPU acceleration for all of Photoshop’s features.
4. You can also adjust the specific features that use GPU acceleration by selecting them from the list and then choosing the desired level of acceleration.

Conclusion

By understanding the different GPU modes in Photoshop, you can choose the mode that best suits your needs and hardware. By using the correct mode, you can maximize the performance of Photoshop and get the most out of your graphics card.