Latest update to the GPU comparison chart, for Summer 2026.
A lot has changed in a year.
PhotoLab 9 introduced AI masks, a feature that relies not only on raw GPU computing speed but also on its VRAM capacity. Meanwhile, AI noise reduction algorithms have evolved, moving from DeepPRIME and DeepPRIME XD2s to DeepPRIME 3 and DeepPRIME 3 XD.
With the introduction of AI masks, simple demosaicing speed is no longer sufficient to compare GPU “performance”. Furthermore, demosaicing times have varied significantly between PhotoLab 8 and PhotoLab 9. They now depend on the specific characteristics of each brand (AMD, Nvidia, Intel, Apple) and the optimization of their drivers (which are constantly evolving). It is no longer possible to combine test results obtained months apart.
Finally, one major factor cannot be ignored: the surge in GPU prices (at least €50 for 8GB of VRAM, and often €100 or even much more for models exceeding 8GB).
The most striking example is the Nvidia RTX 5090 32GB: its price dropped from €2,550 in June 2025 to €2,200 in September 2025, only to reach stratospheric heights a year later, climbing to €4,200, at a minimum!
So, how do you choose “your” ideal GPU?
The best budget-friendly upgrade option is the Nvidia RTX 5050 8GB: widely available and offering one-third of the RTX 5090’s performance for under €280, it is the most sensible affordable choice.
Around the €350 mark, you’ll find the Nvidia 5060 Ti 8GB and the AMD RX 9060 XT 8GB. Both already deliver half the performance of an RTX 5090 for less than a tenth of its current price!
Do you make heavy use of masks or AI models (or other AI apps and games) locally, or do you want to future-proof your setup? Aim for maximum VRAM capacity: 12GB, 16GB, or more. At this level, the entry point is around €500 with the AMD RX 9060 XT 16GB. For that price, you get 60% of the RTX 5090’s performance and are set for years to come.
Looking for top-tier performance without breaking the bank? The best choice remains the AMD RX 9070 XT 16GB. If you can find one for around €600–€630, buy it without hesitation. With over 85% of the RTX 5090’s performance and 16GB of VRAM, you won’t regret your choice.
Are you a die-hard fan of the Nvidia ecosystem with money to burn? Get ready to shell out over €1,000 for an RTX 5070 Ti 16GB or an RTX 5080 16GB.
Do you want to show the world your financial dominance and love for luxury by paying astronomical sums for every purchase? The RTX 5090 32GB is the card for you; however, avoid entry-level models under €4,500 and opt instead for the ultimate collector’s edition, featuring gold plating, gemstone inlays, and luxury brand stickers (price upon request). You deserve the best.
