Comparing RTX 5090 Founders Edition vs Asus ROG Astral Cards: Size Matters
Yesterday’s Nvidia keynote unveiled the RTX 50-series GPUs, sparking excitement in the tech community. The RTX 5090 Founders Edition stood out for its sleek design and powerful performance. However, today at the Asus suite during CES 2025, a different contender stole the spotlight—the Asus ROG Astral GeForce RTX 5090, known for its colossal size and impressive features.
Asus describes the Astral family as inspired by the cosmos, reflecting a commitment to innovation and exploration. The Asus ROG Astral GeForce RTX 5090 boasts a quad fan cooler with a unique design, including a patented vapor chamber and phase-change GPU thermal pad. These features, combined with enhanced clock speeds, make it a formidable GPU in terms of both aesthetics and performance.
Intimidating Size and Cooling
The Asus ROG Astral GeForce RTX 5090 is a visual spectacle, with four fans and advanced cooling technologies that ensure optimal performance. The design, resembling a small moon, exudes power and sophistication, making it a standout piece in any gaming setup. Additionally, Asus offers a liquid-cooled version, the Asus ROG Astral LC GeForce RTX 5090 32 GB GDDR7 OC Edition, equipped with a 360 mm AIO cooler for enhanced thermal management.
Impressions and Speculations
Standing next to these monumental GPUs, one cannot help but be impressed by their sheer size and engineering. Despite the hefty price tags expected for these high-end cards, the overbuilt design and cooling solutions showcase Asus’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of gaming hardware. However, one lingering question remains: Does the RTX 5090 truly require such extensive cooling for overclocked performance? Only time will tell, but the emphasis on robust cooling solutions suggests a focus on maximizing performance and longevity.
Personal Touch: Andy’s Journey in PC Hardware
Andy, a seasoned hardware writer for PC Gamer, reflects on his passion for PC building since childhood. From building his first gaming PC at age 12 to attending product launches and trade shows worldwide, Andy’s expertise in hardware reviews and analysis shines through in his work. His unique perspective and dedication to exploring the latest advancements in PC technology make him a trusted voice in the industry.
In conclusion, the comparison between the RTX 5090 Founders Edition and the Asus ROG Astral cards highlights the evolving landscape of high-performance GPUs. While size may matter in the world of gaming hardware, it is the innovative features and cooling solutions that truly set these cards apart. As technology continues to advance, enthusiasts can expect more groundbreaking releases that redefine the gaming experience. Stay tuned for updates on pricing and availability as these behemoths make their mark in the gaming world.