Every RTX 4090 explained

The GeForce RTX 4090 is the fastest graphics card currently available. Here is a rundown of the Nvidia reference card and each third-party offering to help you decide which is best for you.

My biggest gripe with PC gaming is that there are usually always trade-offs, especially if you play at 4K (3,840×2,160 pixels) resolution. That was until the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 graphics processing unit (GPU) blazed into view.

Complete with ridiculous horsepower, we now have a device capable of ten times that of the Xbox Series X in terms of polygon-pushing grunt.

Admittedly, my former ASUS RTX 3080 TUF Gaming can still kick butt. But visual settings have to be reduced to get a steady 60FPS in some games at 4K, especially if I am recording gameplay at the same time. For the RTX 4090, though, 4K 120FPS at maximum detail is possible.

That is what makes the RTX 4090 special. Because many of us want to run games at their best without thinking about it. Whether that is 4K, 8K, multi-screens for sim racing, ray-tracing, virtual reality headsets with a high refresh rate such as the HP G2 and GPU intensive work tasks. This is the closest card on the market for the job. Only the likes of ray-tracing Cyberpunk 2077 take the frame-rate below 60.

Just remember that, barring a graphics cards with a separate AIO cooling solution, the RTX 4090 takes up multiple slots. Three or four. You also need a beefy power supply unit (PSU), at least 850W in output, to cope with the hefty electrical strain.

Is the GeForce RTX 4090 good value?

Well, compared with previous flagship graphics cards such as the 3090 Ti, Titan variants and even before that such as the 2080 Ti, the answer is yes. Even without inflation, it is cheaper. Plus the multiple years of top-tier gaming and entertainment you get? I can understand why it is selling well.

I also, however, understand that not everyone can drop the price of a used car or multiple months of rent on an electric-sapping device for gaming. Even for me, as someone who makes a living from gaming videos, the RTX 4090 is anything but small change.

So to help you spend your pennies, cents and equivalent as wisely as possible, here are details of every Ada Lovelace-based RTX 4090 including third-party offerings and the original and highly capable reference card from Nvidia itself.

All with TSMC 4nm Ada Lovelace processing, DLSS 3 support, a 384-bit memory controller and 24GB of DDR6X memory. Connectivity, meanwhile, is at least one HDMI 2.1 and three DisplayPort 1.4a (not the newer 2.1 formerly known as 2.0, sadly).

Please note that prices were as accurate as possible at the time of writing this article. However, they are likely to fluctuate because of stock levels in your region, scalpers and worldwide influences. In other words, being picky may not be an option and the numbers just are a rough guide.

As for as and when new RTX 4090 GPUs are released and details change, I shall update my list. Happy hunting!

Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 Founders Edition (reference card)

It used to be that reference cards were weaker in the performance and cooling departments. However, these days Nvidia has left little room for improvement as seen in various tests by tech websites and YouTube channels.

Simply put, the lower price and extreme performance of the Nvidia RTX 4090 FE make it hard to beat – and harder to buy. In the UK it is said that Scan.co.uk supplies the card. Other retailers cover different countries.

Those with less space in a case may be pleased to know the RTX 4090 FE is smaller in length, width and height. Hence why it takes up three slots as opposed to four or more of most alternatives.

Compared with a 3090 Ti, the rather visually impressive 4090 is around 40 to 60 per cent faster in the frame-rate department, depending on the game. At 1,440p and 1080p, the difference is less as the CPU is a bigger factor. Against a 3080, the improvement can be around 80 per cent.

• Boost clock: 2,520MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 12-pin VHPWR / PCIe 5.0
• Dimensions: 304mm x 137 x 61mm
• Weight: 2.186 kilograms
• Slots required: 3.65
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W (Watt)
• Thermal design power (TDP): 450W
• Power limit: 600W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,599 / US$1,599
• Website

ASUS

ASUS TUF Gaming GeForce RTX 4090

ASUS has been in gaming for a while and usually churns out decent graphics cards. At the lower end of its RTX 4090 range is the TUF Gaming, which has tri-axial fans that spin in different directions to improve cooling performance by 23 per cent and reduce turbulence (noise).

Below 55 Celsius, the fans switch off for reduced noise, while a large metal heatsink and vapour chamber help keep all areas of the GPU cool including memory hotspots. ASUS claims the capacitors used are good for 20,000 hours at 105 Celsius although I would avoid such heat.

Factor in some RGB lighting via Aura Sync, use the included graphics card holder to relieve strain from GPU sagging and away you go. An OC version is also available for around £100 extra, complete with a 2,595MHz factory overclock.

Note that ASUS is currently the only brand to offer two HDMI 2.1 ports in addition to the usual three DisplayPort 1.4a although only four displays can be used at once.

• Boost clock: 2,550MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 348.2 x 150 x 72.6mm
• Weight: 2.2 kilograms
• Slots required: 3.65
• Connectivity: 2 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 600W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,699 / US$1,599
• Website

ASUS ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4090 OC Edition

Sitting above the TUF Gaming is the ASUS ROG Strix RTX 4090, which offers a higher standard clock speed (90MHz over the Founders Edition) and two PWM fan connectors so case fans can increase cooling as higher GPU temperatures are detected.

In testing, the ROG Strix RTX 4090 is one of the best performers while maintaining sufficiently low temperatures (in the 60s Celsius) without being loud. Not only that, you can switch between a dual BIOS, one for even lower noise levels and the other for sheer performance.

Though it is faster than the FE in most tests, the difference is minimal. Around 1 to 3 per cent. It is, therefore, harder to justify. However, if you want one of the best RTX 4090s, this is it.

• Boost clock: 2,640MHz (OC mode)
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 357.6 x 149.3 x 70.1mm
• Weight: 2.508 kilograms
• Slots required: 3.5
• Connectivity: 2 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 1,000W
• TDP: 450W
• Power Limit: 600W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,999 / US$1,999
• Website

Colourful / iGame

Colourful GeForce RTX 4090 NB EX-V

Despite having ‘colourful’ in the name, the Colourful GeForce RTX 4090 NB EX-V (also known as the iGame Battle Ax or Axe) is not particularly endowed in the hue department. But it is an RTX 4090 at heart, complete with those 16,384 CUDA cores and 21Gbps memory speeds.

As such, it offers impressive performance. However, its smaller 98mm fans does reduce cooling potential and make more of a noise, while getting one will be tougher in the UK and US.

• Boost clock: 2,565MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 327 x 151.2 x 67.1mm
• Weight: 1.84 kilograms
• Slots required: 3+
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 480W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,799 / US$1,799
• Website

Colourful RTX 4090 Vulcan OC-V

Yet another not-so-colourful Colourful card, we have the GeForce RTX 4090 Vulcan OC-V. It is overclocked as standard and a chunky beast. This means it takes up more of a case, but then it does have three 104mm fans – 6mm larger than the NB EX-V.

It is the detachable iGame Smart LCD that makes the Vulcan OC-V stand out, which has seen its resolution upgraded from 480×128 to 800×216 pixels. Here you can see what your CPU and GPU are up to as well as enjoy a boot-up animation and custom settings.

Thanks to side and horizontal mounting options, you can see the display regardless of your GPU orientation. Or use the DisplayDock and have it on your desk. The ability to enable the OC mode using a button on the I/O bracket is also unusual.

As for performance, tests show it comes in just behind that of the ASUS Strix 4090. Some say it is faster.

• Boost clock: 2,640MHz (One-Key OC)
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 348.5 x 159 x 70.4 mm
• Weight: 2.433 kilograms
• Slots required: 3+
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 550W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,799 / US$1,799
• Website

Colourful iGame RTX 4090 Neptune OC-V

Now we come to the first in our list of small RTX 4090s. Small because of the separate all-in-one (AIO) liquid cooling solution that, in this case, utilises three separate fans attached to a 360mm radiator and a pump inside the GPU housing.

Yes, that means you need to mount a 360mm radiator somewhere in your case. On the flip side, it means you only lose two case slots as opposed to the more common three or four. Plus those who want to match a white system will like the design.

Sadly, like with the other Colourful iGame GPUs, it is hard to buy in some countries and getting one imported may not be preferable given the high price. But it does have one of the highest power limits (630W).

• Boost clock: 2,640MHz (One-Key OC)
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 253.3 x 170.8 x 41.5 mm (AIO cooler 394 x 119.2 x 54.4mm)
• Weight: 2.286 kilograms
• Slots required: 2
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 1,000W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 630W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,799 / US$1,799
• Website

Gainward

Gainward GeForce RTX 4090 Phantom

Up next, the Gainward interpretation of the RTX 4090, complete with three fans, some unusual mesh, a boost clock of 2,520MHz (2,610MHz for the pricier Phantom GS ‘Golden Sample’ variant) and an ARGB side logo.

As with many RTX 4090s, the three-fan design and vapour chamber helps keep things as cool as possible. In testing, it appears the Gainward is one of the fastest (around 3-4 per cent over the 4090 FE for sheer rasterisation) and relatively cool (in the 60s Celsius).

Factor in a dual bios system, which provides a quieter operating mode that uses reference clock speeds, a stylish minimal design and you can see why it is well worth considering. Assuming you can buy it where you live.

• Boost clock: 2,640MHz (One-Key OC)
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 329.4 x 141.6 x 69.7 mm (AIO cooler 394 x 119.2 x 54.4mm)
• Weight: 2 kilograms
• Slots required: 3.5
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 500W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,799 / US$1,799
• Website

GALAX / KFA2

GALAX GeForce RTX 4090 ST / SG / Metal Master

Depending on whether you are in North America or Europe, you will see this card from Galax or KFA-2, respectively. Either way, it has a Wings 2.0 cooling system with 25 per cent better airflow via three larger 102mm fans.

Unusual for an RTX 4090 is the addition of a separate fourth fan of 102mm in size and boasting RGB. When fitted, it provides push-pull cooling through the metal heatsink. Depending on the retailer, you may also get a support to stop sagging.

An SG model exists with a 2,595MHz 1-Click OC mode, ARGB lighting and, depending on location, there are also Metal Master and Metal Master OC variants for those who want a white and silver card.

Meanwhile yet another variant, the ST V2, is identical to the ST except for a higher overclock (2,535MHz) and a metal support stand. Note that the warranty is a less generous two years across the board.

• Boost clock: 2,535MHz (1-Click OC)
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 352 x 153 x 74 mm (without bracket 338 x 138 x 74mm)
• Weight: TBC
• Slots required: 3.7
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 510W
• Warranty: 2 years
• MSRP: £1,879 / US$1,799
• Website

Galax GeForce RTX 4090 HOF

For those who want to overclock, the Galax GeForce RTX 4090 HOF (nothing to do Knight Rider star David Hasselhoff) should be high on your list. Short for ‘hall of fame’, this card comes with not one but two PCI-e Gen 5 16-pin connectors, allowing a devilish 666W maximum power limit.

You also get a dual fan mode for taming overclock temperatures, gold display connectors, a GPU display that can sit attached to the card or on a stand elsewhere, dual bios, snazzy RGB lighting and a potent triple-fan cooling design (two at 112mm and one 92mm).

Compared with every other RTX 4090, the HOF has the highest number of integrated power stages. 28 of them at 70A, giving it a good chance of going beyond typical performance figures. But it is not king when it comes to the 1-Click OC boost clock out of the box.

Usefully, the RGB lighting warns you if a PCI-e connector is not properly connected to the GPU (yellow light) or motherboard (red light).

• Boost clock: 2,610MHz (1-Click OC)
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 2 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 360 x 159 x 77 mm (without bracket 344 x 144 x 77mm)
• Weight: TBC
• Slots required: 3.85
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 550W
• Power limit: 666W
• Warranty: 2 years
• MSRP: £2,000 / US$2,000
• Website

Gigabyte

Gigabyte RTX 4090 Windforce 24G

In the Gigabyte corner, we have the RTX 4090 Windforce 24G. Named so, presumably, because of its triple 100mm fan design with unique blades that spin in alternate directions. There is also a vapour chamber, which seems to ensure lower temperatures across the card.

As with other GPUs in the list, the RTX 4090 Windforce has a dual bios switch. Default is the OC mode, but you can easily swap to the quieter silent mode. There is also a GPU holder in the box and the warranty is three years – not four, according to various retailers.

Performance and cooling is on a par or slightly better than the 4090 FE, depending on the source. This is hardly surprising given the card’s design, which makes no effort to hide the gigantic metal heatsink and copper heat pipes.

• Boost clock: 2,520MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 331 x 150 x 70 mm
• Weight: 1.990 kilograms
• Slots required: 3.5
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 480W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,699 / US$1,699
• Website

Gigabyte GeForce RTX 4090 Gaming 24G

Though mostly similar to the RTX 4090 Windforce, the Gaming 24G ups the cooling ante with three 110mm fans of the graphene nano lubricant variety as opposed to the more common dual bearing setup seen on most of its rivals.

You can also enjoy RGB lighting around those 10mm larger cooling fans (controllable via Gigabyte software), 10 copper heat pipes for cooling, dual bios functionality and power indicators to let you know if you are pushing your card too hard. A higher watt PSU is recommended.

• Boost clock: 2,535MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 340 x 150.2 x 75.2 mm
• Weight: 1.990 kilograms
• Slots required: 3.75
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 1,000W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 600W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,871 / US$1,799
• Website

Gigabyte Aorus GeForce RTX 4090 Master 24G

For those who can accommodate the even larger Aorus RTX 4090 Master 24G, you get three 110mm Bionic Shark fans that sound cooler than they look but are said to improve temperatures. Plus the number of copper heat pipes is now 13, further aiding heat dissipation.

Why this GPU costs more, ultimately, is the addition of a side-mounted LCD display. Sadly, it cannot be rotated like the iGame equivalent so this will not be useful for some orientation methods. But it does allow you to see GPU and VRAM temperatures and even add pictures and GIFs.

Again, Gigabyte has included a dual bios switch, anti-sag bracket, power indicators and, best of all, a four year warranty – one extra over the Windforce 24G and Gaming 24G. If, that is, you remember to register within 28 days of purchase (set a calendar reminder on your phone).

• Boost clock: 2,550MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 358.5 x 162.8 x 75.1 mm
• Weight: TBC
• Slots required: 3.75
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 1,000W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 600W
• Warranty: 4 years
• MSRP: £1,900 / US$1,900
• Website

Gigabyte GeForce RTX 4090 Xtreme Waterforce 24G

Got deeper pockets still and need to save space? Introducing the Gigabyte GeForce RTX 4090 Xtreme Waterforce 24G, which may not respect the English language but it is a tidal wave of power in a small GPU package.

As with the previous AIO-cooled GPU in this list, the Xtreme Waterforce 24G uses a separate cooling system connected by flexible hoses. Despite the smaller two-slot size, your case will need to accommodate a 360mm radiator and the three 120mm fans attached to it.

However, unlike the MSI Suprim Liquid I will get to later, the hoses come out of the end opposite to the I/O, meaning side panel width clearance is less of an issue. You really do not want to have to bend those hoses at source.

Temperatures should be good because of the large copper base plate attached to the VRAM, GPU and MOSFET, while that higher than reference clock speed means blistering performance. Plus there is a 4-year warranty if you extend within 28 days of purchase.

Just bear in mind that, according to Gigabyte’s website, there is a revision 1.0 and a 1.1. The latter is said to have a higher TGP of 600 watt, so worth going for. Although the PSU requirement is 1,000 watt instead of 850.

If you have the 1.0 already, apparently you can RMA for the 1.1.

• Boost clock: 2,565MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 238 x 141 x 40 mm
• Weight: TBC
• Slots required: 2
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 600W
• Warranty: 4 years
• MSRP: £2,100 / US$2,100
• Website

INNO3D

INNO3D GeForce RTX 4090 X3 OC

Now we come to the first INNO3D card, which is probably called the X3 because it uses three 98mm fans to cool those important electronics. There is also a sizable heatsink, vapour chamber and nine heat pipes as well as a GPU stand to prevent sagging.

Admittedly, the X3 OC is rather reserved as RTX 4090s go. It is clear the focus was on improving cooling and keeping things quiet, as opposed to dual bios functionality and RGB bling (though it has some white lighting).

Sadly, its use of a 3x 8-pin adapter instead of the 4x 8-pin FE reduces overclocking potential and the GPU shroud is plastic, which helps reduce the weight of the card but it does seem somewhat cheap at this price. Even if it is meant to be cheaper although UK availability seems limited.

Performance is around that of the FE card, however some reviewers have noticed higher memory temperatures. Partly because of a lower fan speed.

• Boost clock: 2,550MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 336 x 145 x 60 mm
• Weight: 1.8 kilograms
• Slots required: 3
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 450W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,700 / US$1,700
• Website

INNO3D GeForce RTX 4090 iCHILL X3

Upping the ante in the INNO3D range is the RTX 4090 iCHILL X3, which adds Aura Sync-supported RGB bling on the front and centre as well as a bolder design. The clock speed is also marginally faster, at 2,580MHz.

You also get a graphics card stand, which is actually more of a brace than an undercard support, and the same underboard vapour chamber that INNO3D says works better than a copper base. However, the same 3x 8-pin is included so overclocking is potentially more limited.

Then again, overclocking yields relatively small performance gains and the RTX 4090 is way above everything else. What matters is that testing shows the ICHILL X3 variant offers slightly better thermal performance and higher frame-rates than the FE.

If you can get it at a good price, this GPU is worth considering.

• Boost clock: 2,580MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 334 x 148 x 63 mm
• Weight: TBC
• Slots required: 3
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 450W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,700 / US$1,700
• Website

INNO3D GeForce RTX 4090 iCHILL Black

Yet another all-in-one cooler 4090 option, the iChill Black separates its cooling solution, allowing for a smaller footprint in your case. It is also easier to fit generally, as the radiator is 240mm – two 120mm fans for keeping the liquid cool.

In doing so, you only use two slots (same as many older generation cards) and get temperatures that INNO3D claims are 60 Celsius for the GPU and 66 Celsius for the memory. Noise is said to be 26db at peak. The hoses come out of the top, meaning case length is the one to check.

Once again, power is limited by the 3x 8-pin connector and the clock speed is the same as other INNO3D cards. It was hard to find any benchmarks to comment on, however, based on its non-water cooled variants I would expect it to be as good as the FE, maybe better.

• Boost clock: 2,580MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 280 x 137 x 41 mm
• Weight: TBC
• Slots required: 2
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 450W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,800 / US$1,800
• Website

INNO3D GeForce RTX 4090 iCHILL Frostbite

What if you have a water cooled PC and want to utilise an RTX 4090 easily? The RTX 4090 iCHILL Frostbite is for you. It comes preassembled with INNO3D’s waterblock and standard G1/4 fittings. So attach those tubes and away you go. Just don’t spill anything.

Design-wise, the Frostbite features repositioned components, reduced thermal pad thickness, improved water flow over the RTX 30-series and a nickel-plated pure copper base with patented sealing screws.

Meanwhile, RGB lighting can be enjoyed on the backplate. As for the card size, this could be the smallest available at the time of writing. A mere 200mm long, 159mm wide and 37mm wide.

Apart from that, the rest of the specs including the clock speed and power are the same as other INNO3D cards in the list. Pricing seems higher in the UK so expect weaker value for money despite weaker overclocking potential, which is odd given why most people use custom water cooling.

It should, however, live up to its frosty name for temperatures, potentially improving longevity. Good for those with a smaller case and motherboard.

• Boost clock: 2,580MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 200 x 159 x 37 mm
• Weight: TBC
• Slots required: 2
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 450W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £2,300 / US$2,300
• Website

MSI

MSI GeForce RTX 4090 Gaming Trio 24G

Now we come to popular GPU maker MSI and its cheapest offering, the RTX 4090 Gaming Trio 24G. It is more readily available in the UK and US whilst retaining a respectable price at retailers. It is also a stylish card, with some tasteful RGB lighting slicing its way across the card.

It utilises MSI’s TRI FROZR 3 and Torx Fan 5.0 technologies, as well as a copper baseplate and V-shape arrangement for the heatsink, which helps steer heat away faster, and a dual bios. Sagging will not be a problem, thanks to an included support bracket.

Unfortunately, reviews seem thin on the ground but I suspect thermals and performance will be within that of the FE albeit in a larger package.

• Boost clock: 2,535MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 337 x 140 x 77 mm
• Weight: 2.170 kilograms
• Slots required: 3.75
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 480W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,800 / US$1,800
• Website

MSI GeForce RTX 4090 Suprim 24G

For me, the RTX 4090 Suprim 24G is one of the most stylish cards, thanks to brushed metal and angular edges. It is not just aesthetically gifted, either, as there is a factory overclock of 2,610MHz and we are back to a 4x 8-pin connector although it can run with just three.

Once again, we get a dual bios selector for a silent mode (unusually, it is the default). Overall performance from testing is around three per cent over the FE, which is unlikely to make much difference in typical usage but some headroom is nice.

For those who want even more grunt, there is a Suprim X variant with a faster 2,640MHz overclock. Whether or not that appeals will depend on whether you can afford the higher price and potentially higher temperatures.

• Boost clock: 2,610MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 337 x 140 x 77 mm
• Weight: 2.413 kilograms
• Slots required: 3.75
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 520W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,900 / US$1,900
• Website

MSI GeForce RTX 4090 Suprim Liquid 24G

Last of the MSI range, we have the RXT 4090 Suprim Liquid 24G. You get the same brushed metal casing, only now the two fans have been removed from the GPU and two 120mm MSI Meg Silent Gale P12s have been added to a separate 240mm radiator.

Yes, this is another all-in-one (AIO) RTX 4090 with a higher overclock of 2,640MHz – encased in aluminium and with some RGB around that single GPU fan. Except here, the tubes come out of the side of the card, which means some users have had to ditch the side panel.

Some tests have shown that, despite the liquid cooling, the temperature reductions are minimal and performance is on a par with the FE. Others put it as class-leading. Either way, there is no disputing the look and smaller footprint are impressive. It is just that air cooling, though harder to accommodate, works as well for the RTX 4090 series.

• Boost clock: 2,610MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 280 x 140 x 43 mm
• Weight: 2.353 kilograms
• Slots required: 2
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 600W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £2,100 / US$2,100
• Website

Palit

Palit GeForce RTX 4090 GameRock

Say what you want about Palit, it has made some of the most striking RTX 4090 cards. At the bottom of the range is the GameRock, which has an ARGB shroud that shines through a distinctive crystalline arrangement. Definitely a card for mounting upright or vertically.

Like some RTX 4090 cards, the GameRock features a 3x 8-pin connector though Palit still recommends at least 1,000 watt from your PSU. You also get improved air cooling performance compared with its RTX 30-series.

For more power, there is a GameRock OC with a higher 2,610MHz overclock as standard. Or you can stick with the GameRock but get a stealthier OmniBlack version, which has a black crystal design yet retains the RGB lighting.

Overall performance is said to be two per cent better than the FE. Less impressive is that the warranty is only two years at a couple of UK retailers.

• Boost clock: 2,520MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 329.4 x 137.5 x 71.5 mm
• Weight: 1.985 kilograms
• Slots required: 3.6
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 1,000W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 500W
• Warranty: 2 years
• MSRP: £1,750 / US$1,750
• Website

PNY

PNY GeForce RTX 4090 24GB VERTO Triple Fan

Another better known entity is PNY and its entry-level (if you can call any RTX 4090 that) is the 24GB VERTO Triple Fan, complete with a triple fan arrangement – all 100mm in size and on twin ball bearings for improved longevity.

PNY has seen fit to use the 4x 8-pin adapter, which connects power to the stealthy-looking card. Connectivity comes in the form of the more common three DisplayPort 1.4a ports and one HDMI 2.1, while it takes up three slots.

Reviews appear to be thin on the ground, but some users have suggested thermals peaking at 70 Celsius, while operation is quiet enough. Nothing unusual.

Though there are not many bells and whistles, the Verto Triple Fan is priced somewhat higher than the FE and also some of its third-party rivals in the UK. At least the warranty is a more generous three years.

• • Boost clock: 2,520MHz
  • CUDA cores: 16,384

• • Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin

• Dimensions: 337.8 x 143 x 59.2 mm
• Weight: TBC
• Slots required: 3
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 450W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,800 / US$1,800
• Website

PNY GeForce RTX 4090 24GB XLR8 Gaming VERTO EPIC-X RGB Triple Fan

Congratulations to this particular PNY card for having the longest name of all 4090s. Thankfully, the 24GB XLR8 Gaming Verto EPIC-X RGB Triple Fan is one of the smaller air-cooled cards on the list yet retains reference card speeds.

Priced above the Verto, you do get some extras for your money such as extra cooling capacity and a cross-shaped RGB arrangement. Also included in the box is a support bracket. For slightly extra money, the EPIC-X RGB Overclocked increases the clock speed to 2,656MHz.

Power is limited to a 102 per cent maximum, it must be said, making it less capable of overclocking. But this should only mean 3-5 per cent weaker performance compared with the best in class. If it costs around that of the FE, it could be worth a look.

• Boost clock: 2,520MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 331.7 x 136.9 x 71.1 mm
• Weight: TBC
• Slots required: 3
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 850W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 450W
• Warranty: 3 years
• MSRP: £1,800 / US$1,800
• Website

ZOTAC

ZOTAC GAMING GeForce RTX 4090 Trinity

Last in the alphabet of this list is ZOTAC, which starts its range with the RTX 4090 Trinity. Rather than go for angular chic, the three-fan design is flatter and curvier. There is also some ARGB lighting on the side and an included support stand for anti-sagging duties.

Cooling is done by ZOTAC’s IceStorm 3.0, which uses three 110mm fans – larger than some rivals. Said fans shut off at idle. Meanwhile, the heatsink, made from aluminium, is 30 per cent larger than its RTX 30-series GPUs and attached to nine copper heat pipes and a custom vapour chamber.

Where ZOTAC is particularly appealing, besides allegedly decent cooling, is that its RTX 4090 cards come with a five-year warranty – assuming it gets honoured, this is class-leading. The extra two years are available after registration, with three years as standard.

You can also connect an optional RGB strip and there is a bios button for a quieter operating mode. That and the fact it is more readily available means it could be a popular choice.

• Boost clock: 2,520MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 356.1 x 150.1 x 71.4 mm
• Weight: TBC
• Slots required: 3.5
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 1,000W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 495W
• Warranty: 5 years (with registration)
• MSRP: £1,750 / US$1,750
• Website

ZOTAC GAMING GeForce RTX 4090 AMP Extreme AIRO

For slightly more cash, we have the ZOTAC GAMING GeForce RTX 4090 AMP Extreme AIRO. The boosted clock speed is 2,580MHz and there are more RGB zones to make use of. Or not.

It, too, has the optional RGB strip connection and a bios button for quieter operation or all-out performance, which being a button means it can only be changed when the card is in operation.

However, unlike the previous ZOTAC, there is a 4x 8-pin connector as opposed to 3x, giving it more headroom in the power department for overclocking. Or you can run it with three connectors. Reports suggest it is louder than the FE but does keep the GPU and memory cool.

Those extras and the five-year warranty (three plus another two upon registration, remember) are all pluses, as is the fact it runs about two per cent faster than the FE though most people may not notice the difference.

• Boost clock: 2,580MHz
• CUDA cores: 16,384
• Power connectors: 1 x 16-pin
• Dimensions: 355.5 x 149.6 x 72.1 mm
• Weight: 2.044 kilograms
• Slots required: 3.6
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
• Recommended PSU: 1,000W
• TDP: 450W
• Power limit: 495W
• Warranty: 5 years (with registration)
• MSRP: £1,800 / US$1,800
• Website