During CES 2026, NVIDIA took the wraps off DLSS 4.5, an enhanced iteration of DLSS 4 that integrates the second - generation Transformer AI model. DLSS 4.5 is designed to elevate image quality in the 'Performance' and 'Ultra Performance' modes when running at 4K resolution. Leveraging 6x multi - frame generation and dynamic multi - frame technology, it enables GeForce RTX 50 series GPUs to deliver a seamless path - tracing gaming experience with frame rates exceeding 240 FPS. Nevertheless, real - world testing data sourced from Quasar Zone indicates that this boost in image quality comes with a performance trade - off, especially taking a heavy toll on older graphics cards.

Notably, RTX 20 series graphics cards experienced performance drops of as much as 40%. The RTX 30 series also did not escape unscathed, witnessing a performance decline in the range of 20 - 25%. On the flip side, RTX 50 and RTX 40 series graphics cards, which are compatible with FP8 operations, managed to keep performance losses within a more manageable 5 - 10% range.