Nvidia has launched the RTX 5090, claiming it to be the fastest consumer GPU available, with a price set at $2,000. This release is the first instance where Nvidia has created a $1,000 price gap between its 80 and 90 class cards, making the RTX 5090 significantly more expensive than the RTX 5080, which is priced at $999.
Nvidia RTX 5090: 32GB VRAM, AI power, and a $2,000 price tag
For gamers, the RTX 5090 may seem exorbitant, as $2,000 could typically buy a complete high-performance 4K gaming setup. However, a few scenarios may justify the investment in the RTX 5090. It offers a remarkable upgrade for those seeking superior performance over the RTX 4090, which retails for around $1,600 to $2,500. While the $549 RTX 5070 is suggested to offer performance comparable to the RTX 4090, serious gamers who already possess the RTX 4090 may feel compelled to upgrade to the RTX 5090 for its advanced capabilities.
The RTX 5090 is noted for its significant performance improvements compared to its predecessor, the RTX 4090, which itself had a substantial advantage over the RTX 3090. Reviews indicate that creators have noted the RTX 5090’s exceptional speed, solidifying its appeal to enthusiasts willing to pay for top-tier performance.
A substantial factor for some consumers is the VRAM. The RTX 5090 features 32GB of VRAM, twice that of the RTX 5080, which may be crucial for users who can’t afford to experience VRAM limitations. Nvidia has faced criticism for the VRAM capacities in its other cards, particularly as the RTX 5080 retains the same VRAM as the previous-gen RTX 4080 Super and the RTX 5070 Ti.
The RTX 5090 is also marketed as a resourceful option for professionals involved in AI computing. Nvidia has placed substantial emphasis on AI capabilities, highlighting the increased AI TOPS of each card during its CES presentation. Professionals seeking a high-performing AI accelerator may find the RTX 5090 an appealing option due to its improved specifications over the RTX 4090, which currently costs over $2,000.
However, the RTX 5000 series has received criticism regarding its pricing and advertised performance gains. Nvidia claims the RTX 5070 can perform at RTX 4090 levels, but this assertion rests heavily on the effectiveness of DLSS 4 and Multi Frame Generation, features that may not deliver the anticipated user experience.
Additionally, there are concerns that the price of the RTX 5000 series may not provide a competitive edge over older or forthcoming GPUs, particularly with AMD’s RDNA 4 architecture expected to launch soon, which may offer better alternatives at similar price points. Some believe it is possible to secure a last-generation GPU for an adequate gaming experience, especially as prices drop among the RTX 4000 series.
Furthermore, many features from the RTX 5000 series, including new DLSS capabilities, are expected to be backported to the RTX 4000 and even RTX 2000 series. This potential availability of advanced features on older models might dissuade consumers from investing in the expensive RTX 5000 series unless they require the unique performance enhancements that come with it.
Statistical data shows that the majority of gamers do not prioritize 4K gaming, with only 4.21% using 4K as their primary resolution. Most gamers are still utilizing 1080p screens, suggesting a limited market for high-end 4K gaming performance.
Should you buy an Nvidia RTX 5090?
For general consumers: Maybe. The Nvidia RTX 5090 offers exceptional performance but at a high price. For most consumers, there are other GPUs available that provide good value without such a steep price tag.
For gamers: Maybe. If you’re gaming at 4K or aiming for the best possible performance, the RTX 5090 could be worth the investment. However, for most gamers, especially those playing at lower resolutions like 1080p, the RTX 5090 may be overkill.
For professionals (AI/computing): Yes. If you’re working with AI or need top-tier computing performance, the RTX 5090 is a strong choice, offering significant upgrades over the RTX 4090, particularly with its improved AI capabilities and 32GB of VRAM.
For enthusiasts: Yes. For those seeking cutting-edge technology and future-proofing their setup, the RTX 5090 offers immense power and performance improvements that will keep your system ahead of the curve.
For budget-conscious buyers: No. If you’re looking for good performance without breaking the bank, there are more affordable options like the RTX 5070 or RTX 4090 that offer excellent performance at a lower price.
For tech analysts: Maybe. The RTX 5090 brings strong performance improvements, but the price may not be justified for everyone, particularly considering the effectiveness of DLSS and other features that could be available on older models.
For those upgrading from RTX 4090: Maybe. If you’re already using the RTX 4090, the RTX 5090 may not provide a huge leap unless you need the advanced features and VRAM for very demanding tasks like high-end AI work or 4K gaming at ultra settings.
Featured image credit: Nvidia
