Before FSR 4, AMD’s FidelityFX Super Resolution labored by rendering frames at a decrease decision after which utilizing open-source upscaling algorithms to supply a higher-resolution picture when in comparison with native rendering.
That’s fairly totally different from the hardware-driven Nvidia DLSS (which is unique to Nvidia’s RTX {hardware}). In distinction, nearly any graphics card in the marketplace can use FSR, even these made by Intel and Nvidia in case you so select, as an alternative of using XeSS and DLSS tech.
Depending on the sport, AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution might be something from a gentle increase to realize 60fps to a sweeping shot within the arm that may double (even triple) the body charges underneath the best circumstances. This is completed by means of the totally different FSR modes which can be accessible for supported video games: Performance, Balanced, Quality, and Ultra Quality.
Performance prioritizes extra frames over visible constancy, Balanced is a good mixture of each, Quality places extra of a give attention to visuals over frames, and Ultra Quality tries to be as near native as potential.
The totally different FSR modes may also make the most of various ranges of sharpening, which is utilized to the upscaled picture to repair blurry, fuzzy, or jagged photos. As FSR has developed over time from its first model to FSR 3.1, the standard of the upscaling has improved massively, nevertheless it’s not at all times excellent.
Being open supply and (primarily) counting on software program to blow the picture as much as dimension can have its imperfections. In the battle of Nvidia DLSS vs AMD FSR, we sided primarily with the previous, nonetheless, lots has modified within the upscaling world since mid-2023.
That’s as a result of FSR 4 is now AI-powered, using machine studying a lot in the identical manner as Nvidia’s DLSS, and likewise doubles down with improved Frame Generation for increased body charges than earlier than. While the body charges could also be barely decrease than what you may see from FSR 3.1, the standard is an out-and-out enchancment when it comes to readability, sharpness, and smoothness when in comparison with its predecessor.
However, FSR 4 is barely supported by two graphics playing cards proper now, the RX 9070 and the RX 9070 XT; adopters will take pleasure in superior efficiency in comparison with earlier variations of FSR, however it’s possible you’ll be disillusioned in case you’re working an older RX 6000 or RX 7000 line card.