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Nvidia's DLSS 5 reduces RTX 5090 performance by half in key benchmarks

The new DLSS 5 technology has caused a significant drop in performance for the RTX 5090. This comes despite Nvidia's usual optimizations. The impact is particularly noticeable in flagship models.

Published 12 September 2026 · ID 2026-09-12-nvidia-s-dlss-5-reduces-rtx-5090-performance-by-half-in-key-benchmarks
Nvidia's DLSS 5 reduces RTX 5090 performance by half in key benchmarks

Nvidia's DLSS 5 has significantly impacted the performance of the RTX 5090, with benchmarks showing a reduction of up to half its expected output. This outcome has surprised many, as Nvidia typically employs optimizations to mitigate such performance drops. The DLSS 5 technology, which uses advanced neural rendering techniques, has been praised for its visual improvements but has faced criticism for its impact on hardware performance.

DLSS 5 was highly anticipated and has been the subject of much discussion in the tech community. Early implementations of the technology have shown impressive visual results, with some reviewers noting a marked improvement in graphical fidelity. However, these visual gains come at a cost, as performance benchmarks for the RTX 5090 have been notably affected.

In key performance tests, the RTX 5090 has experienced a significant decline, with some benchmarks showing a reduction in performance by up to 50 percent. This decline is attributed to the way DLSS 5 processes and renders images, which places a heavier load on the GPU. The impact is most noticeable in high-resolution settings, such as 1080p, where the RTX 5090's capabilities are most tested.

The performance drop has raised concerns among hardware enthusiasts and gamers alike. The reliance on DLSS 5 for visual improvements has led to increased power consumption and thermal output, with some reports indicating a rise from 691 W to 802 W. This increase in power usage could affect the longevity and efficiency of the RTX 5090, especially in demanding applications. Additionally, the performance issues may influence market perceptions and adoption rates of the new technology.

The situation has created a dilemma for Nvidia, as the benefits of DLSS 5 in terms of visual quality must be weighed against the performance trade-offs. While the technology has the potential to revolutionize PC graphics, the current benchmarks suggest that there are still challenges to overcome. The outcome of this situation will likely influence future developments in GPU technology and the strategies employed by manufacturers.

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