Laptop RTX 4090 Outpaces 5090 After Resistor Mod
The recent launch of NVIDIA's mobile RTX 5090 has been met with a degree of disappointment. Many expected a significant leap in performance over its predecessor, the RTX 4090, but the reality proved to be a more modest increment. However, a clever workaround has emerged, demonstrating that the perceived performance gap might be more artificial than inherent, potentially allowing the older, more affordable RTX 4090 to punch well above its weight class.
The Price-Performance Conundrum
As highlighted by a resourceful Reddit user, the premium price tag attached to RTX 5090-equipped laptops can be eye-watering, often starting from around $3500. In stark contrast, a comparable laptop featuring the previous generation's RTX 4090 can now be snagged for roughly $1600. While the newer model boasts features like Multi-Frame Generation, the raw graphical power of the older card, when optimized, is proving to be surprisingly competitive. This presents an intriguing proposition for budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking peak performance without breaking the bank.
A Modest Machine, Monumental Results
The individual in question, user thavidreadertrue, embarked on a quest to transform an Asus ROG Zephyrus M16 equipped with an RTX 4090. Their ambition was clear: to create a slim and portable notebook that could rival the performance of a 5090-equipped machine, all while sidestepping the exorbitant cost. They specifically chose the M16 for its balanced design. "While other RTX 4090 laptops exist, they often resemble desktop replacements in terms of bulk. I wanted something genuinely travel-friendly," they explained. "The M16, despite its sleek profile, offers sufficient power delivery and cooling infrastructure to handle a 150W TDP GPU and a power-hungry CPU, especially after some thermal interface improvements."
The modification involved a precise alteration to the laptop's motherboard: a 1mΩ resistor was soldered in parallel (shorted) with an existing 5mΩ resistor. This subtle change is the key to unlocking the hidden potential of the GPU.
Beyond the Resistor: Thermal Enhancements
The modder didn't stop at the electrical modification. Recognizing the importance of thermals in sustaining higher power draw, they also upgraded the cooling solutions. The original thermal paste on both the CPU and GPU was replaced with the highly effective PTM 7950. Furthermore, the VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) thermal interface material was swapped for the superior Upsiren UX Pro Ultra. These enhancements are crucial for allowing the GPU to operate at its newly unlocked power limits without succumbing to thermal throttling.
Unleashing the Beast: Performance and Power
The results of this dual-pronged approach are nothing short of astonishing. Post-modification, the laptop's power consumption fluctuates between approximately 40-45W during benchmark tests, a figure that dramatically climbs to an actual draw of 240W when pushed. This significant increase in power delivery directly translates to a performance boost. Depending on the specific game or application, users can expect an uplift of around 20%. This is a truly remarkable achievement, effectively closing the performance gap with significantly more expensive, next-generation hardware.
A Recommendation for the Daring
Considering the substantial performance gains and the dramatically improved price-to-performance ratio, thavidreadertrue confidently recommends this mod to technically adept enthusiasts. It presents an almost unparalleled opportunity to elevate a current-generation laptop to near-next-generation performance levels with minimal financial outlay and effort. For those with the requisite skills and courage, this ingenious modification offers a compelling alternative to purchasing an entirely new, pricier machine.
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