Sometimes, updates regarding next-gen GPUs emerge from unexpected sources, and today is no exception. Corsair has recently shared insights about its power supply units (PSUs) and cooling technologies in context with the upcoming generation of high-performance graphics cards. Notably, it seems that Nvidia’s anticipated RTX 50-series won’t be significantly more demanding on power than the current generation, but the situation is a bit more complex than just Nvidia.
In an unexpected turn, Corsair’s announcement appears to deliver positive news. The company did not unveil any new solutions; rather, they reiterated that the current power supply units (PSUs) could suffice for the next-gen cards, as long as the wattage meets the necessary requirements.
Corsair stated, “The latest graphics cards now require a 12V-2×6 GPU power connector, a standard we expect will continue with next-gen GPUs.”
However, the company also acknowledged the possibility of increased power demands: “Next-generation high-end graphics cards could demand even more power than current models, which can draw up to 450 watts. When considering high-end CPUs and other components that consume significant power, there’s an indication that higher wattage PSUs may be necessary.”
This suggests that while we may encounter an even more power-hungry RTX 5090, the power connector is limited to handling a maximum of 600 watts.
There has been considerable speculation regarding power requirements for next-gen GPUs, which can be a broad subject. Much of the discussion surrounds Nvidia, particularly its flagship RTX 5090. While AMD and Intel are gearing up to release RDNA 4 and Battlemage, they are not expected to debut enthusiast-level cards that demand substantial cooling and power consumption; Nvidia, however, appears intent on targeting the high-performance market.
Reports suggest the RTX 5090 could require 600 watts of power—150 watts more than the previous model. Additionally, some credible sources indicate that the entire series may see a rise in power consumption, although some claims have seemed exaggerated, including the notion that the RTX 5090 might require dual 12V-2×6 power connectors.
Corsair does not seem to support these extreme views, and this is reassuring. If Nvidia adheres to the 12V-2×6 power connector standard, then it is likely that the RTX 5090 won’t exceed the 600-watt threshold. While Corsair doesn’t explicitly mention Nvidia, it’s improbable that either AMD or Intel will introduce cards that demand similar power levels. Nonetheless, they might still adopt the same power connector as we await further developments.
