The all-new RTX 50 series graphics cards have just hit the market, and if you managed to secure one, congratulations! These GPUs sold out faster than we expected, and you’re now ready to dive into next-level gaming. The RTX 50 series boasts some impressive advancements that make this the ultimate time to upgrade your gaming experience. However, while your shiny new RTX 50 series card is capable of some truly jaw-dropping performance, is your current gaming monitor equipped to showcase everything these graphics cards have to offer?
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key features to look for in a monitor and provide you with a range of options perfectly paired for your new RTX 50 series GPU. And if you weren't able to get your hands on one just yet, don’t fret—simply head to either our 5080 or 5090 product pages and click on the "notify me" option on the GPUs you want, and we’ll let you know when they’re back in stock!
Understanding the New RTX 50 Series Capabilities
The new RTX 50 series offers significant advancements that will elevate your gaming experience to new heights. Let’s break down the key features that make this GPU stand out:
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DLSS 4 with Multi-Frame Generation: DLSS 4 introduces Multi-Frame Generation, a groundbreaking feature that leverages advanced AI algorithms to generate up to three additional frames for every traditionally rendered frame. This innovation can boost frame rates by up to 8X compared to traditional rendering methods, delivering exceptionally smooth and responsive gameplay. Click here to learn more about DLSS 4.
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Enhanced Ray Tracing: The RTX 50 series introduces a significant leap in ray tracing technology, thanks to its advanced fourth-generation RT cores. These enhanced cores enable the GPU to process up to 100 times more ray-traced triangles in a scene compared to previous generations, resulting in unprecedented levels of detail and realism.
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High Frame Rates at 4K and Beyond: The RTX 50 series is engineered to deliver exceptional performance at high resolutions, with DLSS 4 enabling impressive frame rates even at 4K. This combination allows for ultra-fast refresh rates, making a monitor that supports 240Hz or higher essential to fully utilize the GPU's capabilities.
For instance, in titles like Cyberpunk 2077, enabling DLSS 4 with Multi-Frame Generation can elevate frame rates from an average of 63 FPS to over 200 FPS at 4K resolution with path tracing enabled.
By pairing your RTX 50 series GPU with a compatible high-refresh-rate monitor, you can achieve a seamless and immersive gaming experience that fully leverages the GPU's advanced features.
Are My Current HDMI/DP Cables Going to Bottleneck My FPS?
One critical but often overlooked factor in getting the most out of your RTX 50 series GPU is your choice of display cables. Your monitor’s refresh rate, resolution, and full capabilities can only be utilized if your HDMI or DisplayPort (DP) cable supports the required bandwidth. Here’s what you need to know:
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HDMI 2.1 vs. HDMI 2.0: If you’re using an HDMI connection, ensure that your cable is HDMI 2.1 certified. HDMI 2.1 supports up to 4K at 240Hz or 8K at 60Hz, which is crucial for high-refresh-rate gaming. HDMI 2.0, in contrast, caps out at 4K 60Hz or 1440p 144Hz, meaning you’ll be bottlenecking your FPS if you aim for higher refresh rates.
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DisplayPort 1.4 vs. DisplayPort 2.1: DisplayPort 1.4 is still viable, offering 4K at 144Hz or 1440p at 240Hz with compression. However, DisplayPort 2.1 is the ideal choice for RTX 50 series GPUs, as it allows for 4K at 240Hz and 8K at 120Hz with full bandwidth.
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Cable Quality Matters: Not all cables labeled HDMI 2.1 or DP 2.1 are created equal. Poorly shielded or uncertified cables can introduce signal loss, frame skipping, and reduced refresh rates. Always choose VESA-certified DisplayPort cables or Ultra High-Speed HDMI 2.1 cables to avoid potential bottlenecks.
Key Features to Look for in a Monitor
To get the most out of your new RTX 50 series GPU, here are the top monitor specifications to look for:
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Resolution: Look for a monitor with at least 2K (2160x1440p) or higher resolution. The clearer the image, the more you’ll appreciate the RTX 50 series’ enhanced visual capabilities.
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Refresh Rate: A 240Hz refresh rate or higher is essential to ensure smooth, tear-free gameplay. The RTX 50 series is designed for high frame rates, and a matching monitor will deliver the best experience.
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Response Time: A low response time (ideally 1ms or lower) is crucial to minimize motion blur and provide precise controls in fast-paced gaming scenarios.
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HDR Support: HDR10 or higher will bring out vibrant colors and greater contrast, making your games come alive with depth and realism.
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Adaptive Sync Technology: Ensure your monitor is equipped with NVIDIA G-Sync or FreeSync technology to eliminate screen tearing and ensure seamless gameplay.
Our Top Pick
