Playing a visually appealing game at a low resolution just to match decent frame rates is not a very fun experience. Most certainly not with all that blur.
Modern titles such as Hogwarts Legacy and Cyberpunk 2077 are built to be cinematic and immersive, aren’t they? These types of games are not meant for choosing between performance and image quality.
This is where the Nvidia DLSS technology steps in. It allows gamers to enjoy higher definitions and enhanced visual fidelity without needing to sacrifice performance. Its frame rates and high resolution come quite close to Native Resolution, which renders every pixel directly from the GPU to bring out the best image quality.
What should gamers know about the two? This guide covers the differences in performance between the two.
What is Nvidia DLSS?
Nvidia DLSS, or Deep Learning Super-Sampling, is an AI-powered technology used to strengthen visual quality and performance in games. To do that, it renders games at lower resolutions and then upgrades them to higher resolutions with the use of Artificial Intelligence.
Through this, Nvidia DLSS reduces the computational load on the graphics card, which in turn leads to higher frame rates and trouble-free gameplay.
Features
Nvidia has evolved significantly from AI upscaling to enhanced frame generation and ray reconstruction. Each DLSS variant brings new advancements with it. For example,
- DLSS uses AI to increase frame rates and visual quality.
- DLSS 2 provides sharp upscaling with deep learning.
- DLSS 3 includes AI-powered frame generation.
- DLSS 3.5 strengthens ray tracing with ray reconstruction.
- DLSS 4 enhances frame pacing, fidelity, as well as responsiveness.
Moreover, Nvidia DLSS supports multiple quality modes and is optimized for RTX GPUs, plus major AAA titles. The DLSS quality mode comparison is highlighted below:
- Quality Mode provides the sharpest visuals, suitable for 4K gaming.
- Balanced mode is used to balance clarity and speed.
- Performance mode increases FPS by rendering at a lower internal resolution.
- Ultra Performance Mode targets higher resolutions such as 8K and delivers the highest frame rates with reduced image clarity.
DLSS Supported RTX Series
DLSS Super Resolution
This technology uses AI to upgrade lower-resolution images to higher resolutions in real time, enhancing visual quality without a major performance hit.
Supported on: GeForce RTX 20, 30, 40, and 50 Series.
DLSS Frame Generation
AI generates additional frames between rendered ones, resulting in smoother gameplay and improved frame rates.
Supported on: RTX 40 and 50 Series.
DLSS Ray Reconstruction
Replaces traditional ray tracing denoisers with AI-driven reconstruction for more realistic lighting, shadows, and reflections.
Supported on: RTX 20, 30, 40, and 50 Series.
DLSS Multi Frame Generation
Combines frame generation and super resolution techniques using multiple previously rendered frames for enhanced performance and visuals.
Supported on: RTX 50 Series.
DLAA (Deep Learning Anti-Aliasing)
Applies advanced AI-driven anti-aliasing at native resolution to improve image clarity without altering resolution.
Supported on: RTX 20, 30, 40, and 50 Series.
What is Native Resolution?
Native resolution refers to the fixed number of pixels that your display device can show without scaling. It is the original resolution. In games, this means rendering visuals in a way that they exactly match the screen’s resolution, like 1080p, 1440p, or 4K.
Native Resolution fully depends on the GPU to provide sharp, unchanged image quality. This ensures visual accuracy; however, it can reduce frame rates, specifically in demanding games.
Features
Native resolution has been the traditional standard for gaming graphics quality. It renders everything by pixels and provides unparalleled fidelity when hardware is strong enough to work with the load. Through native resolution, the display:
- Provides the clearest and most accurate visual output.
- Renders at the full resolution without scaling.
- Needs no AI assistance.
- Requires no upscaling.
- Demands more GPU power a higher resolutions.
- May result in lower FPS than DLSS even at the same settings.
- Is perfect for gamers who find both image quality and responsiveness important.
Comparing DLSS and Native Resolution
When it comes to DLSS performance vs Native performance, this is how both technologies compare with each other:
When it comes to choosing between DLSS and native rendering, each has its own strengths depending on the game, resolution, and hardware setup. Here’s how they compare across key areas:
Performance
DLSS significantly boosts frame rates, especially in graphically demanding games played at 4K resolution. By using AI to upscale visuals, it reduces the workload on the GPU, allowing smoother gameplay without compromising too much on quality.
Image Quality
In Quality Mode, DLSS delivers image fidelity that is almost indistinguishable from native rendering at 1440p and 4K resolutions. However, in Performance Mode particularly at 1080p users may notice some blurring and reduced sharpness compared to native resolution.
Latency
DLSS 3 introduces frame generation technology that can slightly increase input latency. This might not be ideal for competitive or fast-paced games where native rendering tends to be the preferred choice for its more responsive feel.
Hardware Requirements
DLSS is only available on RTX 20 Series and newer GPUs. In contrast, native rendering is supported on all GPUs, though achieving high performance at high resolutions often demands more powerful hardware. For gamers looking to upgrade, there are several high-performance NVIDIA graphics cards for sale that support the latest DLSS features, including DLSS 3 and frame generation.
Game Support
While the number of supported titles is growing, DLSS is still limited to select games. Native rendering, on the other hand, works across all titles but lacks the performance-enhancing benefits of DLSS.
What’s Best For You? DLSS or Native Resolution
You should use Nvidia DLSS to reach higher frame rates at 1440p or 4K, specifically in ray-traced or graphically demanding games. It works excellently for single-player and cinematic titles where smooth visuals matter more than visual clarity.
However, native resolution is the go-to option for competitive games at 1080p, where DLSS may slightly blur details and increase lag if your graphics card is strong enough to handle full-resolution rendering without cutting on performance.
Conclusion
By considering all of the above, we come to the conclusion that DLSS provides a smart balance between visual quality and performance for gamers on RTX GPUs who are playing at higher resolutions.
While native resolution ensures the sharpest visuals and lowest input lag, DLSS can notably increase FPS in competitive games. In the end, choosing between the Nvidia DLSS and Native Resolution relies on the type of game, resolution, and performance requirements.
FAQs
Is DLSS better than native resolution?
DLSS delivers better performance with minimal loss in quality, specifically at 1440p or 4K. It’s ideal for smoother gaming in demanding titles.
What’s the difference between DLSS and native resolution?
DLSS uses AI to upscale visuals from lower resolutions, while native renders at full resolution for the clearest visuals..
Should I use DLSS or native?
Use DLSS for higher FPS and native for competitive gaming.
Does DLSS affect performance?
Yes, it enhances frame rates significantly.
Where can I find NVIDIA graphics cards for sale?
You can find them at leading online tech retailers and marketplaces.
Is it safe to buy a GPU online?
Yes, it’s safe to buy a GPU online from trusted websites.
Which NVIDIA GPU should I buy for gaming?
RTX 4060, 4070 Ti, or the later RTX 50 series are excellent options. These support DLSS and ray tracing for a seamless and immersive gaming experience.
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