Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 Review: The New Benchmark in Gaming and Creativity

Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 Review: The New Benchmark in Gaming and Creativity

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Introduction

The Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 steps into the spotlight as the flagship of Nvidia's RTX 50 series, built on the Blackwell architecture. This card is poised to redefine high-end computing with its exceptional capabilities, catering to gamers looking for ultimate 4K performance and professionals needing robust computational power. With advancements in ray tracing, AI-driven performance via DLSS 4, and multi-frame generation, the RTX 5090 promises to elevate both gaming and content creation to new heights.

Specifications

Core Features:

  • GPU Architecture: Based on the Blackwell architecture with the GB202 GPU.

  • Memory: Boasts 32GB of GDDR7 memory with a massive 512-bit bus, delivering 1,792 GB/s bandwidth.

  • Clock Speeds: A base clock of 2,010 MHz, with a boost clock reaching 2,410 MHz.

  • CUDA Cores: A staggering count of 21,760 for immense parallel processing power.

  • Tensor Cores: 5th Generation for advanced AI tasks.

  • RT Cores: 4th Generation for even better ray tracing performance.

Comparison:

  • The RTX 5090 offers about a 20-30% performance uplift over the RTX 4090 in traditional benchmarks without DLSS, but this jumps dramatically with the new DLSS 4 technology. It outclasses the RTX 4090 in memory size and bandwidth, making it a future-proof option.

Build Quality and Design

Aesthetics: The RTX 5090 Founders Edition introduces a refined look with a dual-slot design, allowing for better compatibility with smaller form factor cases, while still featuring Nvidia's signature styling with a darker gray finish.

Cooling System: A dual-fan cooling solution with double flow-through design ensures efficient cooling, maintaining low temperatures even under extreme loads.

Ports and Connectivity: Comes with three DisplayPort 2.1 and one HDMI 2.1b port, supporting resolutions up to 8K with high refresh rates.

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Performance

Benchmark Tests:

  • In synthetic benchmarks like 3DMark, the RTX 5090 significantly exceeds RTX 4090 scores, particularly in ray tracing and AI-enhanced tests with DLSS 4.

  • Real-world gaming tests in titles like "Cyberpunk 2077" show it achieving over 130 FPS at 4K with max settings, and with DLSS 4's multi-frame generation, frame rates can double in supported games.

Frame Rates:

  • At native 4K, performance is exceptional, even without DLSS, often surpassing 100 FPS in demanding games. With DLSS 4, 4K gaming at ultra settings becomes smoother than ever.

Temperature and Noise:

  • Temperatures are managed well, staying under 80°C even under heavy load, with noise levels being kept to a minimum thanks to the advanced cooling system.

Features and Software

Special Features:

  • Ray Tracing: Enhanced with the 4th Gen RT cores for more realistic lighting and reflections.

  • DLSS 4: Includes multi-frame generation, potentially quadrupling frame rates in supported games.

  • VR Support: With its power, it's set to offer unprecedented VR experiences.

Software Suite:

  • Nvidia's GeForce Experience continues to evolve, providing tools for game optimization, driver updates, and streaming capabilities.

Price and Value

Pricing: The RTX 5090 Founders Edition starts at $1,999, reflecting its position as the top-tier GPU with no compromises.

Value Proposition: Given its performance and the introduction of cutting-edge features, the RTX 5090 justifies its cost for those who demand the best. However, its premium pricing might not suit everyone, particularly with the RTX 4090 still offering strong performance for less.

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Conclusion

Summary:

  • The Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 is the ultimate GPU for those seeking the very best in performance, with significant leaps in AI capabilities and ray tracing. Its only drawbacks are its high cost and power consumption.

Recommendation:

  • Ideal for hardcore gamers, professional creators, and anyone looking for the latest in graphical technology. For those not requiring such high-end performance, considering the RTX 5080 or even sticking with the RTX 4090 might be more budget-friendly.

Personal Impressions

Experience:

  • The RTX 5090 has set a new personal benchmark for what's possible in gaming, with frame rates and visual fidelity that were previously unattainable. The quiet operation despite its power is commendable.

Use Cases:

  • This GPU excels in 8K gaming, multi-display setups, and any task requiring heavy computation like AI training, video editing, or 3D rendering. However, potential buyers should consider the significant power supply upgrade and space requirements.

Performance Charts

4K Gaming Performance (Average FPS - Higher is Better)

Game

RTX 5090

RTX 4090

RTX 5080 (est.)

Cyberpunk 2077 (RT Ultra)

135

95

110

Microsoft Flight Simulator

150

120

130

Red Dead Redemption 2

125

110

115

Synthetic Benchmark Performance (Scores - Higher is Better)

Benchmark

RTX 5090

RTX 4090

RTX 5080 (est.)

3DMark Time Spy

27,000

23,000

25,500

3DMark Port Royal

17,000

14,500

15,800

Comparison Table with Other GPUs

Feature

Nvidia RTX 5090

Nvidia RTX 4090

Nvidia RTX 5080 (est.)

Architecture

Blackwell

Ada Lovelace

Blackwell

CUDA Cores

21,760

16,384

10,752

Memory

32GB GDDR7

24GB GDDR6X

16GB GDDR7

Memory Bandwidth

1,792 GB/s

1,008 GB/s

1,024 GB/s

Base / Boost Clock

2010 / 2410 MHz

2235 / 2520 MHz

2100 / 2400 MHz

TDP

575W

450W

400W

Ray Tracing Cores

4th Gen x 170

3rd Gen x 128

4th Gen x 84

DLSS Support

DLSS 4

DLSS 3.0

DLSS 4

Price (MSRP)

$1,999

$1,599

$1,299