AMD and NVIDIA are innovating, improving the performance and quality of games. Two of the most popular technologies are AMD FSR 3 (FidelityFX Super Resolution) and NVIDIA DLSS 3.5 (Deep Learning Super Sampling). They focus on improving performance and image quality, but each uses different methods. In this article, we’ll take a look at their differences and see which one might be better for you.
What is AMD FSR 3?
AMD FSR 3 is the latest version of FidelityFX Super Resolution technology, which is designed to increase frame rate (FPS) while maintaining image quality. Unlike previous versions of FSR, FSR 3 introduces frame generation technology, which inserts new frames between frames already rendered based on data. This technology aims to make gaming as smooth as possible with fewer performance requirements
How does FSR 3 work?
Rendering from lower resolution: FSR 3 renders games at a lower resolution, such as 1080p, and then converts the image to a higher resolution, such as 4K. It uses spatial and temporal data to preserve detail while reducing the demands on the graphics card.
Frame generation: the FSR 3 generates additional frames between real based on motion, increasing FPS without burdening the GPU. These new frames improve the smoothness of games like Fortnite or racing games while maintaining good quality. For example, a game running at 60 FPS can reach up to 100 FPS.
Benefits of FSR 3
Multi-card compatibility: the FSR 3 supports a wide range of graphics cards including AMD, NVIDIA and Intel, making it a versatile technology.
Open technology: developers can add FSR to their games at no licensing cost, speeding its addition.
What is Nvidia DLSS 3.5?
Nvidia Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) uses artificial intelligence to improve image quality and enhance performance. The latest version, DLSS 3.5, additionally introduces Ray Reconstruction, which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to improve ray tracing, resulting in more realistic lighting and shadows. In addition, DLSS 3.5 continues the image generation that was also present in the previous version, DLSS 3.
How does DLSS 3.5 work?
AI: DLSS uses artificial intelligence to predict and change the image from lower resolution. After rendering the game at a lower resolution, DLSS uses AI to “predict” the details of the image and generate it to look like the native resolution, reducing GPU requirements and increasing performance.
Ray Reconstruction: replaces the method for ray tracing, thus improving the accuracy of reflections, shadows, and effects. This technology improves image quality.
Frame Generation: DLSS 3.5 inserts new frames between already rendered frames, increasing FPS and game smoothness. It generates frames that accurately mirror the game, reducing image tearing and improving performance without burdening the GPU.
Benefits of DLSS 3.5
- High image quality: AI provides high sharpness and detail that is indistinguishable from native resolution.
- Advanced ray tracing.
- Fluidity: DLSS 3.5 delivers high FPS even at high settings, giving the game a smoother experience without sacrificing quality.
Comparison of AMD FSR 3 and Nvidia DLSS 3.5
Image quality: DLSS 3.5 has high image quality, thanks to AI and Ray Reconstruction, which makes games more engaging. However, FSR 3 has also improved and offers decent image quality, especially in Ultra Quality mode. However, compared to DLSS 3.5, FSR can be less detailed in complex games.
FSR 3compatibility : works on AMD, NVIDIA and Intel graphics cards, even on older models.
DLSS 3.5: Limited to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2000, 3000, and 4000 series cards, with frame generation functionality only for RTX 4000 cards.
Performance: DLSS 3.5 uses AI, allowing it to achieve high performance and image quality even at high settings. It is ideal for powerful GPUs where it can significantly improve FPS while maintaining quality, especially at 4K resolution and ray tracing.
FSR 3 can also improve smoothness on lower performance devices that do not support DLSS. Although FSR 3 doesn’t use AI like DLSS, it can still increase FPS by rendering the image at a lower resolution and then changing it to a higher resolution, which saves GPU power.
Support in games
FSR 3 is an open technology that allows easy insertion into games and supports multiple devices. It is compatible with both AMD and NVIDIA graphics cards, providing an accessibility advantage, including older and newer games.
DLSS: is a proprietary technology from NVIDIA, which means its support is limited to select games that must be specially modified. This means that DLSS 3.5 is only available on NVIDIA GPUs, and embedding it in games requires collaboration with developers, which may limit its availability.
Real-world performance in games
FSR 3 can improve performance even on older or less powerful cards. For example, in Cyberpunk 2077, FPS will increase by up to 30-40% when using FSR 3 compared to native resolution. In Fortnite, the FPS increase can be 25-35% while maintaining quality at a similar level to native rendering. In Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, using FSR 3 will improve smoothness by up to 20-30%, allowing gameplay at resolutions higher than 1440p or 4K even on older graphics cards.
Nvidia DLSS 3.5 in Cyberpunk 2077 can increase FPS by 50-60%, which is a big increase, especially when playing in 4K resolution with active ray tracing. In Control, performance improves by 40-50%, allowing for smoother gameplay with max settings. Fortnite has an FPS increase of 30-45%, with no change in quality.. Overall, DLSS 3.5 offers better image quality and higher performance gains.
Conclusion: which technology wins?
DLSS 3.5 is without a doubt the best choice. It uses AI prediction and ray reconstruction to provide significant performance improvements without compromising image quality. If you play games with ray tracing, DLSS 3.5 will be able to get the most out of your RTX card and ensure smooth gameplay.
AMD FSR 3 is a more affordable option. This technology is compatible with most graphics cards, including older AMD and NVIDIA models, meaning you don’t have to invest in the latest NVIDIA RTX cards. FSR 3 will provide a significant increase in FPS at a lower cost, although it won’t achieve the same level of quality as DLSS 3.5 in demanding games.