Nvidia RTX 5080 Founders Edition Review

DLSS 4 – A shockingly great update

DLSS 4, or Deep Learning Super Sampling 4, represents the newest advancement in Nvidia’s AI-driven technology to enhance graphical performance without sacrificing visual quality. Utilizing the advanced machine learning capabilities of the Tensor cores in Nvidia’s RTX series, DLSS 4 adeptly upscales lower-resolution images to higher resolutions in real time.

This technology allows games to run at lower native resolutions while being displayed at higher resolutions, significantly increasing frame rates and smoothing gameplay. It analyzes each frame and, using a deep neural network, predicts and constructs high-quality images that rival those produced at much higher native resolutions.

For RTX 5080 users, DLSS 4 is crucial as it helps fully leverage the capabilities of their high-end hardware. In graphically demanding scenarios like 4K gaming, DLSS 4 ensures that the GPU delivers fluid frame rates without overburdening the system. This not only helps preserve the longevity of the GPU but also ensures an ultra-premium gaming experience. Moreover, DLSS 4 brings enhancements like reduced ghosting and sharper images, which are crucial for competitive gaming where visual clarity and frame rate are decisive.

While AI technology may not be for everyone, especially for gaming purists who prefer raw hardware power, the benefits of DLSS 4 are undeniable. It’s a significant reason to consider upgrading to the RTX 5080, particularly for those using older GPU models. However, it’s worth noting that while DLSS 4 generally provides a seamless experience, rapid movement in games can sometimes introduce minor text issues, though these are often barely noticeable with the new transformer model. This feature marks a pivotal development in the evolution of gaming technology, offering a glimpse into the future of interactive entertainment.

Let’s take a look at the performance for the RTX 5080 with DLSS 4:

3840×2160 Benchmarks	RTX 4080	RTX 4080 SUPER	RTX 5080	RTX 5090
Cyberpunk 2077 Ultra	58.6	59.4	72.21	102.6
Cyberpunk 2077 Ultra + DLSS 4, 4x, Quality + RT	–	–	224.89	241.5
Hogwarts Legacy	61.7	62.4	71.1	90.2
Hogwarts Legacy, Ultra + DLSS 4, x4 Frame gen	–	–	241.7	492.5
Alan Wake 2	57.8	59.1	58.3	103
Alan Wake 2 Ultra + DLSS 4, x4 Frame Gen	–	–	138.9	222.4
1440p Benchmarks	RTX 4080	RTX 4080 SUPER	RTX 5080	RTX 5090
Cyberpunk 2077 Ultra	124.6	125.8	148.61	186.38
Cyberpunk 2077 Ultra + DLSS 4, 4x, Quality + RT			327.98	388.2
Hogwarts Legacy	110.1	110.9	117.3	147.8
Hogwarts Legacy, Ultra + DLSS 4, x4 Frame gen	–	–	262.3	504.6
Alan Wake 2	91.6	92.8	100.2	122.9
Alan Wake 2 Ultra + DLSS 4, x4 Frame Gen			191.7	375.1
1080p Benchmarks	RTX 4080	RTX 4080 SUPER	RTX 5080	RTX 5090
Cyberpunk 2077 Ultra	172.1	173.8	174.4	205.3
Cyberpunk 2077 Ultra + DLSS 4, 4x, Quality + RT	–	–	379.31	414.3
Hogwarts Legacy	151.6	153	167.4	190.2
Hogwarts Legacy, Ultra + DLSS 4, x4 Frame gen	–	–	307	491.8
Alan Wake 2	126.1	131.3	136.8	165.7
Alan Wake 2 Ultra + DLSS 4, x4 Frame Gen	–	–		514.2

Review Navigation:

• Introduction
• Benching Methodology
• 3840×2160 Benchmarks
• 2560×1440 Benchmarks
• 1920×1080 Benchmarks
• DLSS 4 Tests
• Conclusion