# The RTX 5000 Series is Almost Here: What Can the Upcoming Flagship Offer?
Nvidia’s upcoming graphics cards, the RTX 5000 lineup, known by the codename *Blackwell*, are stirring excitement in the technology arena. Following the RTX 4090’s impressive performance set in October 2022, both enthusiasts and professionals are keenly anticipating the RTX 5090, the speculated flagship of this new generation. As we draw nearer to its potential launch, let’s explore the leaks, rumors, and hopes surrounding this much-awaited GPU.
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## **RTX 5090 Launch Date**
Nvidia seems to be extending its usual two-year rollout schedule for premier GPUs. Earlier flagship models such as the RTX 2080, RTX 3090, and RTX 4090 premiered in September 2018, September 2020, and October 2022 respectively, while the RTX 5090 is rumored to launch in January 2025.
This unveiling is anticipated to occur during Nvidia’s keynote at CES 2025, set for January 7. If accurate, this would represent a minor shift from Nvidia’s traditional autumn launch timeframe, possibly suggesting a more measured development pace for the RTX 5000 lineup.
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## **RTX 5090 Cost**
The pricing for the RTX 5090 is still uncertain, but early leaks indicate it could become Nvidia’s priciest consumer GPU to date. A leak from a Chinese source hints at a cost of around €2,500 (approximately $2,650 USD), although this figure includes China’s 13% sales tax. When adjusted for different regions, the price might fall between $1,999 and $2,499 prior to tax.
For perspective, here’s a comparison of the RTX 5090’s anticipated price against its predecessors at launch:
– **RTX 4090 Founders Edition:** €1,949 / $1,599
– **RTX 3090 Founders Edition:** €1,499 / $1,499
If these speculations prove accurate, the RTX 5090 could signify a considerable price increase, reflecting its projected performance enhancement and cutting-edge innovations.
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## **RTX 5090 Features**
The RTX 5090 is expected to be a formidable contender, with notable improvements across its specifications. Here’s an overview of the most reliable leaks:
### **Shader Units**
– The RTX 5090 is rumored to incorporate **21,760 CUDA cores**, showcasing a 33% increase compared to the RTX 4090’s 16,384 cores.
– A potential RTX 5090 Ti variant may push this number even higher, featuring **24,576 CUDA cores**, representing a 50% increase from the RTX 4090.
### **Memory**
– Nvidia is anticipated to launch **32 GB of GDDR7 memory**, a marked enhancement from the RTX 4090’s 24 GB of GDDR6X. This elevation in memory capacity and speed would support the increasing requirements of 4K and 8K gaming, as well as professional tasks like AI and 3D rendering.
### **Power Usage**
– The power demands for the RTX 5090 are expected to be considerable. Initial leaks mention a **600-watt TDP**, an increase from the RTX 4090’s 450 watts. This would require advanced cooling solutions and high-wattage power sources, making it essential for enthusiasts with high-performance configurations.
### **Form Factor**
– Despite its enhanced power and performance, the RTX 5090 might boast a more compact footprint. Leaks indicate that the Founders Edition could feature a **2-slot cooler**, potentially making it more suitable for smaller PC cases.
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## **RTX 5090 Chip: The Blackwell Architecture**
The RTX 5090 is set to showcase Nvidia’s new **Blackwell architecture**, named in honor of mathematician David Blackwell. This architecture is expected to introduce substantial advancements, including:
– **Multi-Chip Module (MCM) Design:** For the first time in Nvidia’s existing lineup, the RTX 5090 may implement an MCM design, integrating multiple GPU dies within a single package. This method, which AMD first introduced with its Radeon RX 7000 series, favors scalability and efficiency.
– **Enhanced Ray Tracing and AI Capabilities:** Blackwell is likely to bolster Nvidia’s already leading-edge ray tracing and AI functionalities, building on the groundwork laid by the Ada Lovelace architecture.
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## **Expectations for the RTX 5090**
The RTX 5090 is expected to provide a dramatic escalation in performance, catering to gamers, content creators, and professionals who seek superior quality. Here’s what we can look forward to:
1. **Unmatched Gaming Performance:** With additional cores, quicker memory, and an advanced architecture, the RTX 5090 could transform 4K and 8K gaming, offering elevated frame rates and smoother gameplay experiences.
2. **