What is DLSS 4? Everything You Need To Know

Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) represents Nvidia's AI technology which improves gaming experiences with various key features that we’ll shortly explain. . The latest version, DLSS 4, was revealed with RTX 50 series graphics cards in January 2025. This very advanced update includes Multi-Frame Generation along with a new AI model based on Transformer architecture.

Key Features of DLSS 4

1. Multi-Frame Generation : The Multi-Frame Generation capability which exists only in RTX 50 series GPUs generates three additional frames for each traditional frame output. The feature delivers higher frame rates and smoother gameplay particularly when playing Alan Wake 2 and Cyberpunk 2077. Of course, more games are getting support soon.

2. Transformer-Based AI Model : DLSS 4 replaces the older Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) with a more advanced Transformer model. The image quality receives improvement through this technology because it eliminates ghosting and shimmering effects along with other visual artifacts. Ray tracing effects receive an enhancement through this technology which enhances the realism of game visuals. This part of DLSS 4 comes under Super Resolution, not frame generation. All RTX GPU owners will enjoy better visual quality achieved via DLSS Super Resolution thanks to DLSS 4.

3. Lower VRAM Usage : DLSS 4 functions at a reduced VRAM capacity so it works better with GPUs that have restricted memory availability. The VRAM memory consumption at 4K resolution decreases by 600 MB when using this technology. This is great news and makes games run in a more optimized manner thanks to better headroom and efficient usage of the GPU.

4. Improved Frame Rates : Reportedly, DLSS 4 delivers frame rate improvements exceeding 15% compared to DLSS 3.5, depending on the game and resolution setting. Of course, if you have DLSS 4 frame generation active the performance improvement is ~2X compared to what was possible with the previous DLSS version.

A brief comparison exists between DLSS 4 and DLSS 3.5 as follows:

1. Better AI Frame Generation with MFG : The Multi-Frame Generation technology introduced by DLSS 4 does not exist in DLSS 3.5. The feature delivers exceptional performance improvements for games that require high GPU resources. AI Frame Generation is possible with older DLSS 3.5 but it is limited to 2X, while Multi-Frame Generation enhances FPS by 4X.

2. Highly Improved Image Quality : Any graphical error such as shimmering or ghosting will diminish when using the Transformer-based AI model found in DLSS 4 which also improves image sharpness. The refinement capabilities of DLSS 3.5 fall short of the quality delivered by DLSS 4. The transformer model is quite the game changer.

3. Better VRAM Efficiency : The latest version of DLSS requires less VRAM than its predecessor DLSS 3.5, which benefits GPUs with restricted memory capabilities.

DLSS 4 has created significant buzz in the gaming industry because it will support 75 games when it launches. Popular gaming titles available for DLSS 4 include the following:

1. Alan Wake 2 introduces DLSS 4 technology along with NVIDIA's RTX Mega Geometry to deliver superior ray tracing effects.

2. Cyberpunk 2077 reaches exceptional speeds of 240+ FPS at 4K resolution with ray tracing when using DLSS 4.

3. The performance in Horizon Forbidden West increased by 25.5 % using DLSS 4 as compared to its predecessor.

4. A highly anticipated release, Black Myth: Wukong plans to add DLSS 4 support in 2025 targeting 200+ FPS at 4K on RTX 5090 graphics cards.

5. The upcoming Indiana Jones and the Great Circle features DLSS 4 Multi-Frame Generation and RTX Hair technology.

6. Many other games support DLSS 4 override mode via the Nvidia app, allowing MFG features to be utilized even before the game developer pushes the update! Your mileage with bugs and visual artefacts may vary, but when we used DLSS 4 override mode in a few games it was genuinely excellent to use.

DLSS 4 works with all RTX GPUs. But Multi-Frame Generation remains available just for RTX 50 series graphics cards like RTX 5070, RTX 5070 Ti, RTX 5080 & RTX 5090

DLSS is a set of various AI-based functions that do different things. The latest frame generation component of DLSS 4 is only supported on RTX 50 Series.

But many other features of DLSS 4 are available on older RTX GPUs too. Check out this chart below by Nvidia to check the compatibility of various DLSS 4 features for an older RTX generation GPU.

The latest tech by Nvidia transforms gaming experiences. This is what makes an upgrade worthwhile:

1. Performance gains: Multi-Frame Generation helps to deliver extra frame rates in games that push hardware limits. If you are aiming for a 480Hz or 240Hz monitor with high resolution, using MFG will better allow you to always be taking advantage of the high refresh rate of your monitor.

2. Superior image quality: A Transformer AI model for the super-resolution aspect of DLSS creates crisp details along with reduced visual flaws. Plus, as we mentioned earlier, VRAM consumption decreases increasing efficiency.

3. Ready for tomorrow: More titles are expected to adopt DLSS 4 each month so a compatible graphics card prepares you for upcoming releases.

At EliteHubs, we offer a wide range of RTX 40 as well as 50 series graphics cards to help you max out DLSS 4 capabilities. A new PC build or just an upgrade - we've got all options available.

The latest DLSS 4 technology sets a new standard in Nvidia's upscaling solutions. Its Multi-Frame Generation along with a Transformer-based AI model delivers really exceptional performance or visual fidelity. RTX 50 series cards provide full access to all features, while previous-generation RTX GPU owners also benefit from notable upgrades.