Comparison of 180 Graphics Cards from 2009 to 2025 FPS Improvements

The evolution of graphics cards has been a remarkable journey, marked by rapid technological advancements and increasingly powerful performance. As the gaming industry continues to grow, understanding the capabilities of different graphics cards over the years becomes essential for both gamers and tech enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of 180 graphics cards from two major players in the market, AMD and NVIDIA, spanning from 2009 to 2025. This exploration not only highlights the performance improvements over the years but also provides insight into the future of graphics technology.

The evolution of 180 graphics cards: A timeline from 2009 to 2025

Back in the late 1990s, NVIDIA made its debut in the graphics card market, swiftly becoming a significant player alongside ATI (now part of AMD). While Intel also entered the arena, it remains a minor contributor to the overall sales landscape. Fast forward to today, and we have a monumental review that evaluates 180 graphics cards released between 2009 and 2025, showcasing the evolution and improvements in graphics technology over time.

As it stands, the prices of graphics cards have skyrocketed. Purchasing a mid-range model often costs as much as a high-end card did years ago. This comparative analysis, conducted by PC Games Hardware (PCGH) in celebration of its 25th anniversary, allows us to examine how graphics cards from over 15 years ago perform against modern counterparts.

Benchmark tests highlight the leaps in graphics performance

The review initiates with the introduction of the AMD Radeon HD 5870, the first graphics card to support DirectX 11, released in September 2009. This card marked a significant milestone, arriving before NVIDIA's GTX 480. The comparison begins with these early models, while on the other end of the spectrum, we see the latest RX 9070 XT from AMD and the RTX 5090 from NVIDIA.

In the initial benchmark tests using 3DMark Fire Strike, the lowest score came from the Radeon HD 5450 with merely 259 points. Following closely was the GeForce GT 430, achieving 771 points. In contrast, the Radeon HD 5870 scored 3,059 points, while the GTX 480 fared slightly better with 3,461 points.

Modern graphics cards have vastly outperformed these predecessors. For instance, the RTX 5070 delivers an astonishing 57,980 points, and the RTX 5090 takes the lead with an impressive 78,844 points. This means that the RTX 5090 is 304 times faster than the HD 5450.

When transitioning from benchmarks to real-world gaming, titles like Bioshock Infinite reveal staggering differences. The RTX 5090 can achieve up to 490 FPS at 1080p, showcasing the potential for a performance bottleneck. Comparatively, the RTX 4080 maintains close performance with 475 FPS, while the RX 9070 XT registers 395 FPS. Older models, like the GTX 480, only manage 50 FPS, and the HD 5870 falls behind at just 42 FPS.

In-depth performance comparison in popular games

Moving forward, we look at another iconic title, Tomb Raider, released in 2013. At 1080p resolution, the RTX 5090 demonstrates its prowess by reaching an astounding 925 FPS, significantly surpassing the RTX 5080 by over 200 FPS. On the flip side, the Radeon HD 5450 struggles to achieve even 1 FPS, leading to a remarkable conclusion that the RTX 5090 is 925 times faster than its 2009 counterpart.

Moreover, the HD 5870 with DirectX 11 achieves 32 FPS, while the GTX 480 yields 38 FPS. These dramatic differences underscore the rapid advancements in graphics technology over the years.

Finally, we examine The Witcher 3, released in 2015, which remains one of the most demanding titles in the gaming landscape. Unsurprisingly, the Radeon HD 5450 cannot handle this game at all, with the HD 5870 delivering only 16 FPS and the GTX 480 slightly better at 19 FPS. In stark contrast, the RTX 5090 achieves an impressive 483 FPS, while the RTX 4090 follows closely behind with 481 FPS. The RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 also contribute respectable scores of 342 FPS and 311 FPS, respectively.

Future trends: What to expect in graphics technology by 2025

As we look ahead to 2025, the expectations for graphics technology are high. The continuous evolution of GPUs suggests an exciting future for gaming, with manufacturers focusing on enhancing performance, efficiency, and AI capabilities. Here are some anticipated trends:

• Increased Ray Tracing Performance: Expect advancements in ray tracing technology, providing more realistic lighting and shadow effects.
• AI-Driven Graphics Optimization: Graphics cards may leverage AI to optimize performance in real time, enhancing gaming experiences.
• More Efficient Power Consumption: Future models are likely to improve energy efficiency, reducing heat output and increasing performance per watt.
• Higher Memory Bandwidth: Anticipate improvements in memory technology, leading to faster data transfer rates and reduced bottlenecks.
• Improved VR and AR Capabilities: As virtual and augmented reality become more mainstream, graphics cards will evolve to support these immersive technologies.

Best graphics cards of 2025: What to look for

As gamers and content creators prepare for future upgrades, it's essential to know what to look for in the best graphics cards of 2025. Factors to consider include:

• Performance Benchmarks: Look for cards that consistently score high in performance tests across various games and applications.
• Price-to-Performance Ratio: Finding a balance between cost and performance will be key for budget-conscious consumers.
• Features and Compatibility: Ensure that the graphics card supports the latest technologies, such as ray tracing and DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling).
• Brand Reliability: Consider the reputation and customer service of the manufacturer when making a purchase decision.

For a visual perspective on how graphics cards have evolved, check out this insightful video:

Understanding the best value graphics cards

While high-end graphics cards may offer superior performance, many users are often looking for the best value options. Here are some tips to identify the best graphics cards in terms of quality-price ratio:

• Consider Mid-Range Models: Often, mid-range cards provide excellent performance for most gaming needs without breaking the bank.
• Watch for Sales and Discounts: Keeping an eye on seasonal sales can yield significant savings on high-quality graphics cards.
• Read User Reviews: Gaining insights from fellow gamers can help in making informed purchasing decisions.

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