Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 vs Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 leads Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 overall by 40 points (84 vs 44 out of 100).
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 stands out on Core Specifications Base Power: 525 W, Core Specifications Maximum Power: 700 W, Core Specifications Lithography Process: 3 nm.
- Best value: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 (from $249) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 leads overall
$1,999 at launch
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090
84
Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050
44
Best value: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 ($249)
Why it stands out
- Core Specifications Base Power: 525 W
- Core Specifications Maximum Power: 700 W
- Core Specifications Lithography Process: 3 nm
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090
The Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 is the flagship model of the GeForce RTX 50 series, which is the successor to Nvidia's GeForce 40 series. This GPU utilizes the Blackwell architecture, featuring fourth-generation RT cores and fifth-generation Tensor Cores for various compute tasks.
Best for Professional computingBest for Advanced renderingBest for AI compute
Pros
- Supports GDDR7 video memory
- Uses the Blackwell microarchitecture with high graphics frequencies and large L2 caches
- Features fourth-generation RTX cores for hardware-accelerated real-time ray tracing and fifth-generation Tensor Cores
Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050
The GeForce RTX 3050 is an entry-level graphics processor designed to introduce modern features like hardware-accelerated ray tracing and DLSS into mainstream gaming. It suits users seeking a balance between current graphical technologies and budget constraints, allowing for gameplay in demanding titles at moderate settings.
Best for 1080p GamingBest for Modern TitlesBest for Budget Builds
Pros
- Includes dedicated hardware cores (RT cores) developed for accelerating complex lighting calculations.
- Supports advanced features like AI-accelerated graphics processing in addition to traditional texturing (rasterization).
- Is part of a line (30 series) that supports modern APIs including DirectX Raytracing and Vulkan.
Cons
- As an entry-level card, it is limited in raw computational power compared to higher-tier models.
- Its capabilities are foundational, meaning intensive use of the latest advanced effects may require compromises in resolution or frame rate.
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090
Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Nvidia GeForce RTX 509038,858
Nvidia GeForce RTX 305013,037
Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.
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Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side