---
title: dataType
framework: metal
role: symbol
role_heading: Instance Property
path: metal/mtlargumentdescriptor/datatype
---

# dataType

The data type of the argument.

## Declaration

```swift
var dataType: MTLDataType { get set }
```

## Discussion

Discussion For a constant data argument, this value needs to match the binary format of the data stored in the buffer for that argument. For other parameter types, such as textures or samplers, specify the appropriate constant. See MTLDataType for possible values.

## See Also

### Setting the descriptor’s properties

- [index](metal/mtlargumentdescriptor/index.md)
- [access](metal/mtlargumentdescriptor/access.md)
- [arrayLength](metal/mtlargumentdescriptor/arraylength.md)
- [constantBlockAlignment](metal/mtlargumentdescriptor/constantblockalignment.md)
- [textureType](metal/mtlargumentdescriptor/texturetype.md)