YouTuber modifies Nvidia RTX 5050 and sets multiple 3DMark records

The world of PC gaming and hardware modifications continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with enthusiasts pushing the boundaries of what is possible with their graphics cards. Recently, YouTuber TrashBench took on the challenge of modding the Nvidia RTX 5050, a graphics card that has garnered attention for its performance limitations compared to its more powerful counterpart, the RTX 5060. In this experimental journey, TrashBench aimed not only to enhance the RTX 5050's capabilities but also to set multiple world records in benchmark tests. The results were impressive, showcasing the potential of DIY modifications in the realm of PC hardware.
Transforming the RTX 5050: A Unique Modification
TrashBench's mission to transform the RTX 5050 into something akin to an RTX 5060 started with a significant hardware modification. He replaced the stock dual-fan cooler with a more robust triple-fan assembly sourced from an RTX 5060. This was not a straightforward swap; it required some creative engineering, including drilling a hole in the heatsink's base plate to accommodate a capacitor on the RTX 5050. This step was crucial for ensuring proper functionality and performance.
The modding process also included flashing the card's firmware with an unlocked BIOS, a common technique among overclocking enthusiasts to unlock additional performance potential. These initial modifications set the stage for what would become a remarkable leap in performance.
Performance Gains: A Closer Look
Before the modifications, the RTX 5050 displayed a notable performance gap when compared to the RTX 5060. Based on preliminary benchmarks, the RTX 5050 achieved:
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: 183 fps
- Assassin's Creed Valhalla: 109 fps
In these tests, the RTX 5050 lagged approximately 33% behind the RTX 5060, which boasted:
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: 258 fps
- Assassin's Creed Valhalla: 153 fps
However, after implementing the cooling modifications and BIOS update, the performance of the RTX 5050 surged significantly. Post-modification results demonstrated:
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: 212 fps
- Assassin's Creed Valhalla: 135 fps
This represented an 18% increase in performance for Shadow of the Tomb Raider and a 12% gain for Assassin's Creed Valhalla, showcasing the effectiveness of the modifications made by TrashBench.
World Records and Benchmarking Achievements
With the enhanced performance came the unexpected achievement of multiple world records in renowned benchmarking software, including:
- 3DMark Time Spy
- Steel Nomad
- Port Royal
These accolades are a testament to the card's new capabilities, especially considering that the modifications did not require extreme cooling methods, which are often necessary for high-level overclocking. TrashBench's innovative approach proved that significant upgrades could be achieved with relatively minimal hardware changes.
Power Consumption and Thermal Management
One notable aspect of the modification was the increase in power consumption. The RTX 5050's power draw rose from a stock value of 120W to 140W post-modification. Despite this increase, the larger cooling assembly effectively managed temperatures, allowing the GPU to operate at a cool 40°C, a significant improvement over its previous 70°C operating temperature.
This enhancement in cooling not only facilitated higher performance levels but also ensured the longevity and reliability of the GPU during extended gaming sessions. Effective thermal management is crucial in maintaining optimal performance and preventing hardware damage from overheating.
Conclusion: The Future of GPU Modding
TrashBench's successful modification of the RTX 5050 highlights the potential for creativity and innovation within the PC gaming community. As enthusiasts continue to explore and experiment with hardware, we can expect to see more impressive feats that challenge the status quo of gaming performance. This journey serves as an inspiration for gamers and modders alike, encouraging them to explore the limits of their equipment.
For those interested in further exploring the world of GPU modifications and overclocking techniques, resources such as forums and tutorial videos can provide invaluable insights. Additionally, for a deeper understanding of Nvidia's lineup and the performance of various models, you might check out this review of the RTX 5060, which sheds light on the comparative performance of GPUs in the Nvidia series.
Ultimately, the journey of TrashBench and his RTX 5050 serves as a reminder of the excitement and potential that lies within the hardware modification community.
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