What is DLSS? Everything You Need to Know

DLSS stands for Deep Learning Super Sampling, and it’s like a magical technology that uses special computer intelligence to make games look better without slowing them down.

It’s like having a secret helper that turns a blurry picture into a clear one, allowing you to enjoy games in a new way.

The DLSS is like having a smart helper that takes blurry pictures and makes them much clearer, so everything looks more detailed and beautiful. The best part is that you can enjoy the improved graphics without sacrificing the smoothness and speed of your game!

What is NVIDIA DLSS?

NVIDIA DLSS stands for ‘NVIDIA Deep Learning Super Sampling.’ It’s an excellent technology made by NVIDIA, a company that makes powerful computer graphics cards. This tech makes video games, and apps look better and run smoother.

If you have a video game that looks good at 1080p (that’s full HD), but you want it to look even better at 4K (that’s ultra HD); Instead of needing a super expensive graphics card to handle 4K, DLSS uses innovative computer learning to make the game look like it’s running in 4K, even though it’s still at 1080p.

DLSS uses fancy AI (Artificial Intelligence) and learning tricks to make the lower-resolution images look as good as the higher-resolution ones. It’s like a super-smart computer teacher who can fill in the missing details and make things look sharp.

Because of DLSS, you can play games at higher resolutions without needing a super-powerful computer. It’s like magic – you get better graphics without sacrificing performance!”

NVIDIA DLSS 3 performance
Image Credit: NVIDIA

DLSS 1.0

DLSS 1.0 refers to the first version of this technology developed by NVIDIA.

With DLSS 1.0, NVIDIA introduced the initial version of this technology, but it had some limitations compared to later versions. It primarily relied on machine learning to upscale images but had less data and sophistication than subsequent iterations.

Also Read: SSD vs HDD: What’s the Difference?

DLSS 2.0

DLSS 2.0 is an upgrade to an earlier version called DLSS 1.0. It’s even better because it makes the game look nicer and works with more fun than before. Plus, it doesn’t have those annoying blurry or weird things that sometimes happen when pictures improve this way.

This version of Deep Learning Super Sampling makes computer parts for video games and graphics. It’s meant to make video games look and run better on computers with certain powerful graphics cards called RTX GPUs.

DLSS 2.0 uses AI to take a lower-quality picture of the game and then magically makes it look like a much better and clearer picture. It’s like taking a small image and turning it into a big, sharp one! This trick helps the game play more smoothly because the computer doesn’t have to work as hard to show the prettier picture.

Announcing NVIDIA DLSS 3
Image Credit: NVIDIA

DLSS 3.0

NVIDIA DLSS 3.0, which stands for Deep Learning Super Sampling 3.0, is the latest and most advanced technology for graphics in games and other visual applications. It’s like having a super-smart helper that makes your games run faster and look even better.

DLSS 3.0 uses artificial intelligence (AI) to learn and understand the game’s visuals as DLSS 1.0 and 2.0. Then, it uses its smarts to create sharp, detailed images, almost like magic and smoother than ever. The best part is that it does all this without slowing down your computer or game console. It’s like having a secret weapon to make your gaming experience smoother and more enjoyable.

DLSS 3.0 is better than its older versions because it performs 1. well, almost like DLSS 2.0, but with minor improvements. Plus, it works amazingly well with the latest RTX 40 series GPUs, making your games run up to 3 to 4 times faster! So, with DLSS 3.0, you can enjoy better-looking games that run super smoothly on powerful hardware.

Also Read: What to Look for in a Computer?

DLSS 1.0 vs DlSS 2.0 Vs DLSS 3.0

Here’s a table comparing DLSS 1.0, DLSS 2.0, and DLSS 3.0 based on their specs and features:

DLSS 1.0  DLSS 2.0  DLSS 3.0  
Key InnovationsNA  AI-based upscaling using deep learningFrame Generation technology
Performance         Improved frame rates and image qualitySignificant improvements in image quality and frame ratesNoticeable performance improvements compared to previous versions
Super ResolutionNAIntroduced and improved upon in DLSS 2.0Utilized for upscaling lower-resolution images
AI-Based Frame GenerationNANAUtilized to generate frames more efficientl
Enhanced PerformanceNASignificant performance improvements with AI algorithmsSimilar performance to DLSS 2.0 with minor improvements
Compatibility Supported by select games and RTX GPUsSupported by more games and expansionsSupported by select games and RTX 40 series GPUs
Hardware RequirementRTX GPUsRTX GPUs RTX 40 series GPUs 
Image QualityImproved over traditional upscaling methodsEnhanced image quality and clarityImproved graphics and smoother gameplay
Specs Introduced with Nvidia Turing GPUsIntroduced with Nvidia Turing GPUsIntroduced with Nvidia Ampere GPUs 
AI model-based upscalingAI model-based upscalingAI model-based upscaling
Required dedicated AI tensor cores Required dedicated AI tensor coresRequired dedicated AI tensor cores
Upscaled image quality improvementsEnhanced upscaling and image qualityEnhanced performance and image quality
CompatibilityLimited to supported games and hardwareExpanded compatibilityExpanded compatibility
DLSS ModesPerformance and Quality modesPerformance, Balanced, and Quality modesPerformance, Balanced, and Quality modes
FeaturesImproved frame rates and image qualityImproved image quality and sharpnessImproved performance and image quality
Games SupportLimited number of supported gamesExpanded support for more gamesExpanded support for more games 
Ray TracingCompatible with Ray TracingCompatible with Ray Tracing Compatible with Ray Tracing
Release Date Introduced in 2018Introduced in 2020Introduced in 2022

Note: It is important to note that DLSS compatibility and support may vary depending on the specific game and the hardware requirements. As new versions of DLSS are released, compatibility and support are expected to improve, offering enhanced performance and image quality on a wider range of games and hardware configurations.

Deep Learning Super Sampling on Gaming 3
Deep Learning Super Sampling on Gaming 2
Deep Learning Super Sampling on Gaming
Deep Learning Super Sampling on RTX GPU

What does DLSS Do?

DLSS is an exciting trick that makes games look better and run faster on your computer or console.

Sometimes, a game has fewer pixels and looks fuzzy or blurry. But DLSS has a smart program that can fix those fuzzy pictures and make them look clear and nice.

It’s like a good painter who makes a bad picture look good! This painter adds what the picture is missing and makes it look like it has more pixels than it really does.

The best thing is that DLSS does this while you play the game, so you have more fun without your computer or console getting slow.

How does DLSS work?

Understanding the process of DLSS can be fascinating. Here’s a simplified explanation of how it works:

Step 1: It requires a vast amount of high-quality input data to train its neural networks effectively. This data includes high-resolution and low-resolution images of various gaming scenarios.

Step 2: NVIDIA uses powerful supercomputers to train neural networks. The AI algorithms analyze the input data and learn to upscale lower-resolution images into higher-quality ones.

Step 3: Once trained, the neural networks are integrated into gaming drivers and software. During gameplay, the AI analyzes each frame, upscales it using the learned patterns, and produces a high-resolution image on the screen.

NVIDIA DLSS 3.0
Image Credit: NVIDIA

5 Advantages

DLSS offers numerous advantages to gamers, game developers, and the gaming industry. Some key advantages include

Enhanced Graphics Quality: DLSS provides stunning visuals and sharper images, enhancing the gaming experience.

Increased Performance: DLSS reduces the workload on the GPU by rendering and upscaling lower-resolution frames, resulting in higher frame rates and smoother gameplay.

Ray Tracing Support: DLSS works seamlessly with ray-tracing technology, further improving visual fidelity and realism in games.

Future-proofing: As DLSS improves over time through software updates and advancements in AI, gamers can expect even more remarkable enhancements in the future.

5 Disadvantages

Artefacts and Blur: DLSS can sometimes make the upscaled image look strange or blurry, especially in certain scenes or textures.

Limited Game Support: Not all games support DLSS since developers have to add it to their games. So, you may only be unable to use it in some of our favorite games.

Hardware Requirements: To use DLSS, you need an Nvidia RTX graphics card, which means if you have an older card or one from a different brand, you won’t be able to benefit from DLSS.

Quality Dependence on Training Data: The quality of the upscaled image depends on how well the AI was trained on specific games and resolutions. If the game’s data was included correctly, DLSS may work better.

Performance Impact: While DLSS can help with performance, it might sometimes make a slight difference, and sometimes it could even make the graphics look worse than rendering at the original resolution.

Also Read: What is VRAM?

Deep Learning Super Sampling Supported Games

DLSS 3DLSS 2DLSS 1
A Plague Tale: RequiemAtomic HeartControl
Atomic HeartA Plague Tale: RequiemDeliver Us The Moon
Atomic HeartAlan Wake RemasteredWolfenstein: Youngblood
Bright Memory: InfiniteAmid EvilMechWarrior 5: Mercenaries
Conqueror’s BladeAnatomy of FearCyberpunk 2077 (initial DLSS 1.0)
Cyberpunk 2077AnthemOutpost Zero
Dakar Desert RallyApocalypse: 2.0 EditionMonster Hunter
Deliver Us MarsAron’s AdventureFinal Fantasy XV
Destroy All Humans! 2 – ReprobedBack …Battlefield V
Diablo IVCall of Duty: VanguardAnthem
Dying Light 2 Stay HumanCall of Duty: WarzoneAssassin’s Creed Valhalla
F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow TorchCall of Duty: Warzone 2.0Minecraft
F122Call Of Duty Cold War Black OpsDeath Stranding
Forza Horizon 5Minecraft RTXWatch Dogs Legion
HITMAN World of AssassinationCyberpunk 2077
Hogwarts LegacyMetro …
Jurassic World Evolution 2Hitman 3
LoopmancerControl
Marvel’s Midnight SunsMarvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy
Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles MoralesCyberpunk 2077
Marvel’s Spider-Man RemasteredWatch Dogs Legion
Microsoft Flight SimulatorEverspace 2
Need For Speed UnboundCrysis Remastered
PERISHEnlisted
Portal: Prelude RTXSystem Shock
Portal with RTXCall of Duty: Warzone
Ratchet & Clank: Rift ApartMortal Shell
RedfallThe Fabled Woods …
WRC Generations – The FIA WRC Official Game
Warhammer 40,000: Darktide
Tower of Fantasy
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Swordsmen X: Survival
The Lord of the Rings: Gollum
THE FINALS
SUPER PEOPLE 2
Sackboy: A Big Adventure
Returnal

DLSS Supported Graphics Card

Graphics CardsDLSS Support
GeForce RTX 4050 [2]
GeForce RTX 4060Supported (DLSS 3.0+)
GeForce RTX 4060 TiSupported (DLSS 3.0+)
GeForce RTX 4070Supported (DLSS 3.0+)
GeForce RTX 4070 TiSupported (DLSS 3.0+)
GeForce RTX 4080Supported (DLSS 3.0+)
GeForce RTX 4090Supported (DLSS 3.0+)
GeForce RTX 3090Supported
GeForce RTX 3080Supported
GeForce RTX 3070Supported
GeForce RTX 3060 TiSupported
GeForce RTX 3060Supported
GeForce RTX 2080 TiSupported (DLSS 2.0+)
GeForce RTX 2080 SuperSupported (DLSS 2.0+)
GeForce RTX 2080Supported (DLSS 2.0+)
GeForce RTX 2070 SuperSupported (DLSS 2.0+)
GeForce RTX 2070Supported (DLSS 2.0+)
GeForce RTX 2060 SuperSupported (DLSS 2.0+)
GeForce RTX 2060Supported (DLSS 2.0+)

FAQs

Is DLSS making pictures not look good?


No, DLSS improves the image quality, even when the game renders at a lower resolution. It may sacrifice some details, but it boosts the game’s performance and smoothness.

Can I use DLSS 3 on my old computer?


DLSS 3, the new and improved version, only works on newer computers with particular parts called NVIDIA RTX 4000-Series graphics cards. Older computers don’t have the right stuff for this fantastic new technology.

Is DLSS 3 Worth Upgrading For?


If DLSS 3.0 or a newer version makes your games run much better and smoother, upgrading might be a good idea. When your games have higher frame rates, they play more smoothly and feel even better.

What is NVIDIA DLSS Rust?

NVIDIA Rust is a superb game about surviving and creating things. DLSS isn’t directly connected to Rust, but if the game’s creators use DLSS, it could help Rust look even more awesome and run more smoothly on your computer.

Final Words

NVIDIA DLSS is a revolutionary technology that improves game graphics and performance. It uses smart AI algorithms to make games look stunning and run smoothly.

No matter what kind of games you play, DLSS enhances your gaming experience. And the best part is, DLSS keeps getting better with new updates and features.

DLSS unlocks new possibilities and innovations in gaming. So, get ready to experience your favorite games in a whole new way with the amazing power of DLSS!

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