Core Distinctions
AI Performance (Tensor Cores)
The RTX 5090D features significantly reduced AI computing power compared to the standard RTX 5090. Specifically, the 5090D delivers 2,375 AI TOPS versus the 5090's 3,352 AI TOPS—representing approximately a 29-40% reduction. This limitation primarily impacts professional computational tasks such as deep learning training and large-scale model inference, while having minimal effect on gaming performance.
Hardware Specification Consistency
Both graphics cards maintain identical specifications in critical areas:
- CUDA core count
- Memory capacity (32GB GDDR7)
- Ray tracing cores (RT Cores)
- Blackwell architecture
Some reports suggest that the 5090D's hardware is physically identical to the 5090, with AI performance limitations implemented through software or firmware restrictions (such as VBIOS).
Thermal Design and Power Consumption
The reference design for both cards maintains the same 575W power consumption. However, certain third-party 5090D models (such as those from Colorful) may incorporate enhanced cooling solutions, including reverse fans.
Gaming Performance Differences
Standard Gaming Experience
In traditional rasterization-focused games like CS2 and Naraka: Bladepoint, both cards deliver nearly identical performance. This consistency occurs because these games primarily rely on CUDA cores and memory bandwidth—aspects where the 5090D matches the 5090 perfectly.
For example, when running Cyberpunk 2077 at 4K resolution with DLSS 4 enabled, the 5090D shows frame rate improvements comparable to the 5090, with negligible performance differences.
Ray Tracing and DLSS Performance
Since the RT Core count remains unchanged between models, ray tracing performance is consistent across both cards. While DLSS technology depends on Tensor Cores (where the 5090D has reduced capabilities), practical testing reveals minimal differences in super-resolution quality. In Cyberpunk 2077, for instance, the 5090D still achieves frame rate improvements exceeding 100%.
Benchmark Comparisons
Productivity benchmarks in applications like Blender show only approximately 1% performance difference between the two cards. 3DMark tests indicate the 5090D delivers 30-50% better performance than the previous generation RTX 4090, with virtually indistinguishable results compared to the 5090.
Purchase Recommendations
For Gamers
If gaming is your primary focus, the 5090D represents better value. Its gaming performance is practically identical to the 5090 at a potentially lower price point. However, it's worth noting that due to supply and demand dynamics, the actual retail price of the 5090D in China (starting around ¥16,499) may exceed the international price of the standard 5090 (approximately ¥14,642).
For Professional Users
Users focused on AI training, rendering, and similar professional applications would benefit from the 5090's complete AI computing capabilities.
Conclusion
The fundamental difference between the RTX 5090D and RTX 5090 lies in the artificial limitation of AI performance in the former model. For typical gamers, the 5090D is more than capable of delivering exceptional 4K gaming with ray tracing at high frame rates, making the AI performance premium unnecessary. Those seeking maximum productivity performance should opt for the standard 5090.
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