Final Thoughts
Looking to the future, we can expect to see continued refinement and improvement of RTX HDR as NVIDIA develops more sophisticated machine learning models and optimizes its driver-level implementation. We might see improvements in how the AI handles different types of game scenes, potentially leading to even more accurate and visually pleasing results. There’s also the possibility of more advanced user controls, allowing enthusiasts to fine-tune the HDR conversion process to their liking. Games that currently don’t support HDR but could greatly benefit from RTX HDR include popular titles like Valorant, Counter-Strike 2, and Minecraft (Bedrock Edition). These games, with their distinct visual styles, could see significant improvements in visual fidelity and contrast with RTX HDR.
Is RTX HDR Worth It?
Well, that depends on your gaming preferences and setup. For gamers who have a large library of games which don’t support HDR and an HDR-capable display, RTX HDR could be a game-changer. It offers a way to breathe new life into your existing game library, potentially making older titles look more vibrant and modern.
For competitive gamers who prioritize performance over visual fidelity, RTX HDR might not be a must-have feature. The potential for added input lag and even a small performance hit might not outweigh the visual benefits in highly competitive scenarios. On the other hand, for gamers who enjoy single-player experiences and value immersion and visual quality, RTX HDR could be a very appealing feature. The ability to enhance the visuals on a wide range of games, including older titles, could add significant value to your gaming experience.
More Than Just Gaming!
It is worth noting however, that RTX HDR isn’t just for games, but it also works with streamed videos when using web browsers like Chrome. When you’re watching SDR videos from platforms like YouTube on an HDR display, RTX HDR can convert that content into a HDR format, offering a more vibrant viewing experience. The process works similarly to games, with the model analyzing the video stream as it plays. However, keep in mind that results again, can vary depending on the content and your specific setup. Due to this, it adds another layer of value to RTX HDR, making it appealing for both gaming and media consumption on your PC so win win.
Should You Enable It?
When comparing RTX HDR to other GPU features, it’s important to consider your priorities. While features like ray tracing or DLSS might have a more dramatic impact on supported games, RTX HDR has the potential to enhance a much wider range of titles in your library. Ultimately, whether RTX HDR is worth it for you will depend on your specific gaming habits, the types of games you play, and how much you value visual enhancements across your entire game library. Also, you have to remember that you will need an RTX based GPU and an appropriate display, so if you don’t already have the right kit, it could be a costly upgrade for you, but if you do have the hardware already, then why not give it a try on some older SDR based titles, because who doesn’t love replaying through some of their favourite games from times of old? At least I know what I’ll be doing this weekend.
