Which RTX 5090 to Get: A Comprehensive Buying Guide

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 is the latest powerhouse in the world of GPUs, pushing the boundaries of gaming, content creation, and AI-driven applications. As with previous flagship releases, NVIDIA has introduced a Founders Edition (FE) model alongside multiple third-party (AIB) variants from brands like ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, ZOTAC, and PNY. Each of these models comes with different cooling solutions, factory overclocks, power requirements, and build designs, making the choice more complex.

If you’re planning to upgrade to the RTX 5090, this guide will help you navigate the key differences between the Founders Edition and AIB models, including design, cooling efficiency, power consumption, performance benchmarks, pricing, and availability. We’ll also cover recent power connector issues and whether they should influence your decision.

Understanding the RTX 5090 Variants

NVIDIA’s RTX 5090 is built on the cutting-edge Blackwell architecture, featuring:

• 32GB of GDDR7 memory
• 21,760 CUDA cores
• Improved ray tracing and AI-powered features
• A new dual-board design in the Founders Edition
• Higher power consumption compared to previous generations

With these advancements, the RTX 5090 is designed for 4K and even 8K gaming, as well as demanding tasks like 3D rendering, AI processing, and deep learning. However, choosing the right variant depends on your use case, PC build compatibility, budget, and cooling preferences.

1. NVIDIA Founders Edition (FE)

The Founders Edition is NVIDIA’s official version, designed in-house and manufactured under strict quality control. This model often sets the baseline for third-party manufacturers.

Key Features

• Compact Dual-Board Layout
  Unlike previous NVIDIA GPUs, the RTX 5090 FE features a dual-PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design, making it more compact than custom variants. This design is ideal for small form factor (SFF) builds.
  (PC Outlet)

• Advanced Cooling System
  NVIDIA has introduced a 3D vapor chamber and liquid metal thermal interface material to improve cooling efficiency. This helps the FE model maintain stable temperatures under heavy workloads.
  (NVIDIA)

• Pricing & Availability
  The RTX 5090 Founders Edition is priced at $1,999.99, but limited availability makes it challenging to purchase. It is sold directly by NVIDIA and select partners.
  (The Verge)

• Power Consumption & PSU Requirements
  The FE variant draws 575W, requiring a 1000W-1200W PSU with 12V-2×6 connectors.
  (Wired)

Potential Drawbacks of the Founders Edition

• Melting Power Connector Issues
  Multiple reports indicate that power cables are melting on some FE models, similar to previous RTX 4090 issues. Even with the 12V-2×6 standard, power imbalances cause excessive heating.
  (The Verge)
  (Inkl)

• Stock Cooling Performance Is Limited
  While NVIDIA’s cooling system is innovative, custom AIB models provide better thermal performance with larger heatsinks and additional cooling fans.

• Availability Issues
  The FE model is often out of stock, making AIB variants a more accessible option.

2. AIB Variants from Third-Party Brands

Custom models from AIB manufacturers offer better cooling, factory overclocking, and RGB customization. Here are the best RTX 5090 AIB variants available:

ASUS RTX 5090 Models

• ROG Astral GeForce RTX 5090
  • Premium cooling & factory overclocking
  • ARGB lighting & AI tuning
• TUF Gaming GeForce RTX 5090
  • More affordable than ROG models
  • Focuses on durability & thermal efficiency

Gigabyte RTX 5090 Models

• Aorus RTX 5090 Master
  • Triple-fan cooling & reinforced heatsinks
  • Higher base clock speed than FE model
• RTX 5090 Gaming OC
  • Balanced price-to-performance ratio
  • Decent cooling and factory overclocking

MSI RTX 5090 Models

• Suprim X RTX 5090
  • One of the highest-performing RTX 5090s
  • Larger heatsinks & improved cooling fans
• Gaming Trio RTX 5090
  • Triple-fan design for effective cooling
  • Slightly cheaper than Suprim X

ZOTAC & PNY RTX 5090 Models

• ZOTAC AMP Extreme AIRO
  • Optimized for extreme overclocking
  • Superior airflow & heat dissipation
• PNY XLR8 Gaming RTX 5090
  • Budget-friendly AIB alternative
  • Standard cooling but reliable performance

(PC Gamer)

3. Choosing the Best RTX 5090 for Your Needs

For Small Form Factor Builds

• Best Choice: NVIDIA RTX 5090 Founders Edition
• Why? The dual-board design makes it ideal for compact PC cases.

For Maximum Performance & Overclocking

• Best Choice: MSI Suprim X or ASUS ROG Astral
• Why? These models feature superior cooling solutions, allowing for higher clock speeds and long-term stability.

For Best Cooling & Low Temperatures

• Best Choice: Gigabyte Aorus RTX 5090 Master
• Why? Triple-fan cooling prevents thermal throttling.

For a Budget-Friendly High-End GPU

• Best Choice: PNY XLR8 Gaming RTX 5090
• Why? Cheaper than premium AIB models, but still offers great performance.

Final Thoughts

Deciding which RTX 5090 to buy depends on your case size, cooling preferences, power supply capacity, and budget.

• If you need a compact build and trust NVIDIA’s cooling, the Founders Edition is a great option.
• If power connector issues worry you, consider an AIB variant with improved power delivery.
• If you want maximum performance, MSI Suprim X or ASUS ROG Astral will give you the best factory overclocking and cooling.

For more comparisons, check out this detailed video guide:

Whichever model you choose, ensure your power supply meets the RTX 5090’s high power requirements, and keep an eye on future firmware updates from NVIDIA regarding power connector safety.