NVIDIA is gearing up to kick off 2025 with a bang, unveiling its next-generation GPUs during CES 2025. CEO Jensen Huang will introduce the much-anticipated GeForce RTX 5090, RTX 5080, and the RTX 5070 series, targeting both desktop and laptop markets. While these new GPUs are bound to draw attention, the retail rollout is where things get interesting.
RTX 5080 Hits Shelves First
Mark your calendars for mid-January 2025, as NVIDIA plans to launch the GeForce RTX 5080 as the first retail offering from its latest lineup. Sporting 16 GB of cutting-edge GDDR7 memory and blazing speeds of up to 32 Gbps, this GPU is poised to claim the performance crown right out of the gate. This release order flips the script from previous launches, where the flagship 90-class GPU typically debuted first.
Why the change? It could be a response to the overwhelming success of the RTX 4090, which stole the spotlight from the RTX 4080 in the previous generation. The RTX 4080 struggled to compete with its flagship sibling until NVIDIA released a “SUPER” version to improve its value proposition. By launching the RTX 5080 first, NVIDIA seems to be betting on a more balanced start for its 50-series lineup, ensuring the 80-class GPU gets its time to shine.
RTX 5090 to Follow Shortly
The wait for the RTX 5090 won’t be long. This powerhouse, expected to deliver a massive leap in performance, is slated to launch just weeks after the RTX 5080, likely by late January or mid-February 2025. For enthusiasts chasing the ultimate gaming experience, the RTX 5090 will set new benchmarks and redefine what’s possible in high-end PC gaming.
In addition to the standard RTX 5090, rumors suggest that a dual-version variant, the RTX 5090D, might also make its debut. While details on this dual-GPU model are scarce, it could push the boundaries of gaming and creative performance even further.
AMD and Intel in the Mix
While NVIDIA is focused on the enthusiast market, AMD and Intel are setting their sights on the mainstream segment. AMD’s upcoming GPUs aim to deliver strong value and competitive ray-tracing capabilities but are unlikely to outpace NVIDIA’s high-end offerings. Meanwhile, Intel is already making waves with its Arc B580 GPU, a budget-friendly solution priced at $250 that’s gaining traction among gamers.
With Intel’s Arc B580 capturing unexpected market share and AMD’s mainstream GPUs still months away, the competition is heating up. NVIDIA’s challenge will be to maintain its dominance in the face of Intel’s momentum and AMD’s evolving lineup.
What to Expect
Both the RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 will be available in NVIDIA’s Founders Edition and partner-manufactured variants, some of which have already appeared in early online listings. Gamers and PC enthusiasts eager to upgrade can expect more details and availability updates in the coming weeks.
2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for PC hardware, and NVIDIA’s latest GPUs are set to lead the charge. Whether you’re eyeing the RTX 5080 for its balanced power or holding out for the flagship RTX 5090, the next generation of gaming performance is just around the corner. Stay tuned for more updates as NVIDIA’s newest GPUs hit the market.
