Discover the key performance gain between DLSS 2.0 vs DLSS 3.0 when we test it out using the Nvidia RTX 4090 on the latest modern AAA Titles.
DLSS, or Deep Learning Super Sampling, has revolutionized the gaming industry by enhancing graphics and performance. With the recent release of DLSS 3.0, it’s time to look at how it compares to its predecessor, DLSS 2.0. Both technology comes from the same company, Nvidia, with different versions.
Before we get into the specifics, it’s important to clarify what these two versions of DLSS do. DLSS 2.0 is a set of development tools that help developers create better games by minimizing the blurring and distortion in scenes with many graphical interactions. Meanwhile, DLSS 3.0 is an enhanced version of DLSS 2 with extra optimizations for high-end devices such as GPUs and CPUs.
So, which version should you choose? This answer depends on your preferences. If you’re primarily concerned with achieving low pixel shader conflict rates, then DLSS 2.0 will suit you. However, DLSS 3.0 is the way to go if image quality and performance are more important.
So, in this article, we will dive into the final thoughts on these two versions, examining their key features and benefits. By the end, you’ll clearly understand which DLSS version is right for your gaming needs.
Now, further any delay, let’s check out the DLSS 2.0 vs DLSS 3.0 Performance Test in 7 Games below.
(NOTE- These are the following that we will be covering in this article. Also, all the Buy links in this article are affiliates. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)
DLSS 2.0 vs DLSS 3.0- GPU Specs Details
To test the performance difference in both modes, we have used the Nvidia RTX 4090 GPU founder’s edition, which is compatible with both technologies. Here are the detailed specs of the GPU below.
| GPU Name | AD102 |
| Architecture | Ada Lovelace |
| Base Clock | 2235 MHz |
| Boost Clock | 2520 MHz |
| Memory Clock | 1313 MHz with 21Gbps Effective |
| Video Memory | 24 GB |
| Memory Type | GDDR6X |
| Bus Variant | 384 bit |
| Bandwidth | 1008 Gb/s |
| PSU | 850W |
Nvidia DLSS v2.0 and v3.0 Technology- Test Setup Details
Here are the details of our setup used to test the Nvidia RTX 4090 GPU’s DLSS 2.0 vs DLSS 3.0 experiment.
| Processor | Intel Core i9-13900K CPU |
| Graphics Processor | Nvidia RTX 4090 Founders Edition 24 GB |
| Motherboard | ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming |
| Memory | G.Skill Trident 32GB RGB DDR5 6000 MHz CL38 |
| Storage | 2 TB Corsair Force MP600 M.2 NVMe SSD |
| Power Supply | Corsair HX 1200W Gold Certified Fully Modular |
| CPU Cooler | NZXT Kraken X73 360mm AIO RGB CPU Liquid Cooler |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro 64bit |
| Cabinet | Coolermaster HAF700 EVO Case |
RTX 4090 GPU’s DLSS 2.0 vs DLSS 3.0- FPS Benchmark Results
Here are the FPS benchmark results based on the latest PC games compatible with DLSS 2.0 & DLSS 3.0 technology. We have also included the temperatures for both of these GPUs so that you can differentiate the thermal performance when switching between two modes.
| GAME vs DLSS Version | DLSS 2.0 | GPU Temp | DLSS 3.0 | GPU Temp |
| Remant 2 | 98 Fps Avg | 52 °C | 132 Fps Avg | 52 °C |
| Remant 2 Native 4K | 60 Fps Avg | 55 °C | 95 Fps Avg | 55 °C |
| Cyberpunk 2077 | 75 Fps Avg | 58 °C | 111 Fps Avg | 57 °C |
| Witcher 3 Wild Hunt | 75 Fps Avg | 54 °C | 117 Fps Avg | 53 °C |
| Hogwarts Legacy | 161 Fps Avg | 54 °C | 186 Fps Avg | 54 °C |
| A Plague Tale Requiem | 84 Fps Avg | 56 °C | 121 Fps Avg | 56 °C |
| Marvel’s SpiderMan | 95 Fps Avg | 50 °C | 135 Fps Avg | 50 °C |
| Microsoft Flight Simulator | 99 Fps Avg | 52 °C | 169 Fps Avg | 52 °C |
| Microsoft Flight Simulator Native 4K | 92 Fps Avg | 58 °C | 138 Fps Avg | 58 °C |
Nvidia DLSS v2.0 and v3.0 Technology- Final Thoughts
From the above chart list, it is very easy to understand that DLSS 3.0 delivers much better performance than older DLSS 2.0 technology. By keeping the GPU Temperature the same, we can easily get the extra FPS boost using the DLSS 3.0 technology.
Also, the image rendering quality was much better in DLSS 3.0 than in DLSS 2.0 in our games. Especially in Native 4K, it delivered a great performance leap, and with the latest Nvidia technology in the RTX 4090, all the games looked great in DLSS 3.0. So, in our opinion, spending more bucks to get the DLSS 3.0 for your gaming can be worth it if you are planning to game on 2K, 4K and even 8K Monitors.
So this was all about DLSS 2.0 vs DLSS 3.0 Performance Test in 7 Games. Let us know in the comments below if you think we have missed anything.
That’s all, folks!
Alapan, Editor at Xombied and Techuda, is a biomechanical Engineer education-wise. But he wanted to go ahead with his life and pursue his career as both Gaming and Tech Reviewer. He is occasionally invited to host, plan and execute Gaming events with multiple brands. Apart from gaming, he loves playing guitar and singing along to the music.