Vulkan-glTF-PBR
A Vulkan-based physically-based rendering (PBR) implementation for loading and rendering glTF 2.0 models with image-based lighting.
What is Vulkan-glTF-PBR?
Vulkan-glTF-PBR is a C++ implementation of physically-based rendering (PBR) using the Vulkan graphics API, designed to load and render glTF 2.0 models with full image-based lighting. It generates necessary texture maps on the GPU and supports key glTF extensions, serving as a reference for modern graphics programming.
Graphics programmers and developers working with Vulkan who need a practical example of implementing PBR pipelines or loading glTF assets in real-time applications.
It provides a production-ready, cross-platform reference that closely follows the Khronos glTF PBR specification, with on-the-fly GPU texture generation and support for advanced glTF features like animations and Draco compression.
Overview
Physical based rendering with Vulkan using glTF 2.0 models
Use Cases
Best For
- Learning Vulkan-based PBR implementation techniques
- Rendering glTF 2.0 models with image-based lighting in Vulkan
- Cross-platform graphics development targeting Windows, Linux, and Android
- Generating BRDF lookup tables and environment maps on the GPU
- Implementing support for glTF extensions like Specular-Glossiness workflow
- Building educational tools for real-time graphics programming
Not Ideal For
- Projects requiring immediate startup without GPU texture generation delays
- Teams needing a full game engine with built-in tools like physics or UI systems
- Applications targeting platforms without Vulkan support, such as macOS or iOS
- Developers requiring complete glTF 2.0 spec compliance, including all features like morph targets
Pros & Cons
Pros
Generates essential PBR texture maps like BRDF lookup tables and environment maps on the GPU during startup, eliminating the need for external preprocessing tools.
Includes CMake configurations and dependencies for Windows, Linux, and Android, making it straightforward to compile and run on multiple operating systems.
Closely follows the Khronos glTF PBR specification with clear code and a YouTube tutorial playlist, serving as a practical learning resource for Vulkan developers.
Implements key glTF extensions like KHR_materials_pbrSpecularGlossiness and supports animations, Draco compression, and node hierarchies for advanced rendering.
Cons
The README explicitly states that the model loader does not implement all glTF 2.0 features, such as morph targets, which limits compatibility with some assets.
Generates all required texture maps on the GPU during startup, which can cause significant delays, especially for complex scenes or on lower-end hardware.
Requires recursive cloning with submodules and manual steps for features like Draco compression, adding setup complexity and potential build issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Projects
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LunarG's SamplesVulkan Samples
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