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GTX 1080 Vs RTX 2080: Which Is Better?

We compare the GTX 1080 and RTX 2080 in Gaming Benchmarks to find out which one is better in 2024.

Our previous assessment discovered that the AMD RX 7900 XTX outperformed NVIDIA’s 4070 Ti. However, in this analysis, we shift our focus to NVIDIA’s previous generations, specifically comparing the performance of the GeForce GTX 1080 vs RTX 2080. We aim to determine the extent of the performance gap between these two graphics cards in 2024.

Key Takeaways

  • The GeForce GTX 1080 is based on the Pascal architecture, while the GeForce RTX 2080 utilizes the more advanced Turing architecture.
  • In benchmark tests, the RTX 2080 exhibits a significantly 40.2% higher average FPS production compared to the GTX 1080, showcasing its superior performance.
  • Moreover, the RTX 2080 shows a power consumption of roughly 18.4% higher than the GeForce GTX 1080, highlighting a difference in their energy efficiency.
  • Conversely, the benchmark analysis reveals a thermal efficiency disadvantage of approximately 10.3% for the GTX 1080 compared to the RTX 2080, indicating a difference in their cooling capabilities.

GTX 1080 Vs RTX 2080: Comparison Table

Technical Specs GeForce GTX 1080 GeForce RTX 2080
GPU Name GP104 TU104
Architecture Pascal Turing
Process Size 8 nm 12 nm
Transistors 7,200 million 13,600 million
Base Clock 1607 MHz 1515 MHz
Boost Clock 1733 MHz 1710 MHz
CUDA Cores 2560 2560
Tensor Cores NA 368
RT Cores NA 46
TMUs 160 184
ROPs 64 64
L1 Cache 48 KB (per SM) 64 KB (per SM)
L2 Cache 2 MB 4 MB
Memory Size 8 GB 8 GB
Memory Type GDDR 5X GDDR6
Memory Bus Width 256-bit 256-bit
Memory Bandwidth 320.3 GB/s 448.0 GB/s
TDP 180 W 215 W
Suggested PSU 500 W 550 W
Release Date May 27th, 2016 Sep 20th, 2018
MSRP 500 USD 1000 USD
Review GTX 1080 Review RTX 2080 Review

Architectural Difference

NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080

The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080, a prominent member of the Pascal generation’s high-end graphics cards, emerged as a notable inclusion in the RTX 1000 series. Equipped with a base clock of 1607 MHz, a boost clock of 1733 MHz, and 8 GB GDDR5X memory, featuring a bandwidth of 320.3 GB/s, this GPU garnered widespread acclaim among gamers and enthusiasts alike, earning a reputation as one of the most formidable and sought-after options in its era.

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080, unveiled a few years back, represents a formidable addition to the RTX 2000 series, harnessing the power of Turing architecture. Sporting a base clock of 1515 MHz and a boost clock of 1710 MHz, along with 8 GB GDDR6 memory boasting a bandwidth of 448.0 GB/s, this graphics card may be a seasoned contender, yet it continues to command recognition as a prominent choice in the realm of mid-range gaming GPUs.

Also Read: RTX 2070 Vs RTX 2080

GeForce GTX 1080 Vs RTX 2080: Gaming Benchmarks

To evaluate the practical performance of the GeForce GTX 1080 and RTX 2080, we will thoroughly analyze each card across a range of games. By scrutinizing their real-world performance, we can better understand how these graphics cards compare in terms of gaming performance.

Testing Rig

Here are the specs of the testing rig:

  • CPU: Intel Core i9-13900K
  • Motherboard: ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming
  • CPU Cooler: MSI MAG CORELIQUID C360
  • Memory: G.SKILL Trident Z5 RGB 32GB DDR5 6000MHz
  • Power Supply: CORSAIR RM850i 850W
  • Storage Drive: SAMSUNG 970 EVO M.2 2280 1TB
  • Operating System: Windows 10 Pro

To deliver an in-depth assessment, we will comprehensively compare the GeForce GTX 1080 and RTX 2080. Our evaluation will encompass rigorous testing of their performance and technical prowess, including power consumption, frame rates, temperatures, and 1% lows, utilizing 1440p ultra settings.

Note: Please keep in mind that benchmark tests can be influenced by a range of external factors, including room temperature, airflow, and background software. Therefore, these elements have the potential to impact the final results.

Let’s dive straight into the gaming benchmarks without further delay, comparing the performance of the GeForce GTX 1080 vs RTX 2080.

The Last of Us Part I

The Last of Us Part I
The Last of Us Part I 1440p Gaming Benchmarks – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • Notably outperforming the GTX 1080’s average FPS of 28, the RTX 2080 shines with 40 FPS, showcasing a remarkable 35.2% increase in performance.
  • Furthermore, the RTX 2080 outperforms the GTX 1080 in cooling, maintaining a lower average temperature of 56°C, which is 14.8% or 9°C cooler compared to the GTX 1080’s average temperature of 65°C.
  • Moreover, the GTX 1080 showcases better power efficiency with a 7.6% advantage over the RTX 2080, consuming only 178.7 W as opposed to the RTX 2080’s 193 W.
  • Additionally, the GTX 1080 falls short in terms of 1% low performance when compared to the RTX 2080, displaying a 4.4% lower result of 22 FPS compared to the RTX 2080’s 23 FPS.

God of War

God of War
God of War 1440p Gaming Benchmarks – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • Demonstrating its superiority, the RTX 2080 achieves an impressive average FPS of 59 in benchmark tests, surpassing the GTX 1080’s 40 FPS by a significant 38.3%.
  • In terms of cooling performance, the RTX 2080 takes the lead with an average temperature of 62°C, surpassing the GTX 1080 by 4.7% or 3°C, as it reaches a higher average temperature of 65°C.
  • In terms of power consumption, the GTX 1080 proves to be more efficient, utilizing 24.3% less power compared to the RTX 2080, with a consumption of only 178.3 W versus 227.7 W.
  • Moreover, the RTX 2080 outperforms the GTX 1080 in terms of 1% low performance, with an impressive 33.7% improvement, achieving 52 FPS compared to the GTX 1080’s 37 FPS.

Atomic Heart

Atomic Heart
Atomic Heart 1440p Gaming Benchmarks – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • The RTX 2080 establishes itself as a formidable contender, delivering exceptional performance with an average FPS of 94 vs 62 in benchmark tests, surpassing the GTX 1080 by a notable 41%.
  • Additionally, the RTX 2080 boasts superior cooling capabilities, registering an average temperature of 62°C, which is 10.6% or 7°C cooler than the GTX 1080’s average temperature of 69°C.
  • Moreover, the GTX 1080 demonstrates superior power efficiency, consuming 22.5% less power than the RTX 2080, with a lower power draw of 173.8 W compared to 218 W.
  • In addition, the GTX 1080 lags behind the RTX 2080 in terms of 1% low performance, exhibiting a 53.6% lower result with 45 FPS compared to the RTX 2080’s 78 FPS.

Also Check: RTX 3070 Ti vs RTX 2080 Ti

CYBERPUNK 2077

CYBERPUNK 2077
CYBERPUNK 2077 1440p Gaming Benchmarks – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • Outshining the GTX 1080, the RTX 2080 showcases its prowess with a remarkable 52.9% increase in average FPS, achieving a 43 FPS compared to 25 FPS in benchmark tests.
  • With a remarkable 15.3% or 10°C temperature advantage, the RTX 2080 showcases its exceptional cooling performance, maintaining an average temperature of 60°C, while the GTX 1080 falls behind at 70°C.
  • Moreover, with a 22.4% power advantage, the GTX 1080 consumes less energy than the RTX 2080, drawing only 178.3 W compared to the RTX 2080’s 223.5 W.
  • Additionally, the RTX 2080 delivers superior 1% low performance, showcasing a remarkable 55.7% improvement with 39 FPS compared to the GTX 1080’s 22 FPS.

Resident Evil 4

Resident Evil 4
Resident Evil 4 1440p Gaming Benchmarks – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • With a substantial 40% increase in average FPS, the RTX 2080 outperforms the GTX 1080, delivering an impressive 57 FPS compared to 38 FPS in benchmark tests.
  • The RTX 2080 excels in cooling efficiency, achieving an average temperature of 63°C, which is 9% or 6°C cooler than the GTX 1080’s average temperature of 69°C.
  • The GTX 1080 excels in power efficiency, consuming 20.8% less power than the RTX 2080, with a power draw of 175.7 W versus 216.7 W.
  • Furthermore, the GTX 1080 demonstrates a weaker 1% low performance compared to the RTX 2080, showing a 40% lower result with 24 FPS in contrast to the RTX 2080’s 36 FPS.

Hogwarts Legacy

Hogwarts Legacy
Hogwarts Legacy 1440p Gaming Benchmarks – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • Surpassing the GTX 1080’s performance, the RTX 2080 excels with an impressive average FPS of 63 vs 42 in benchmark tests, showcasing a substantial 40% increase.
  • Furthermore, the GTX 1080 struggles to keep temperatures down, reaching an average of 69°C, while the RTX 2080 maintains a significantly lower average temperature of 59°C, marking a 15.6% or 10°C improvement.
  • When it comes to power consumption, the GTX 1080 prevails by utilizing 13.5% less power than the RTX 2080, with a consumption of 175.8 W compared to 201.3 W.
  • Additionally, the GTX 1080 falls behind the RTX 2080 in terms of 1% low performance, displaying a 56.7% lower result of 29 FPS compared to the RTX 2080’s 52 FPS.

A Plague Tale Requiem

A Plague Tale Requiem
A Plague Tale Requiem 1440p Gaming Benchmarks – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • The RTX 2080 stands out with its performance, recording an average FPS of 43 compared to 29 in benchmark tests, surpassing the GTX 1080 by a significant 38.8%.
  • In terms of thermal management, the RTX 2080 outshines the GTX 1080 with superior cooling, showcasing an average temperature of 65°C, while the GTX 1080 trails behind at 68°C, resulting in a notable 4.5% or 3°C difference.
  • Moreover, the GTX 1080 boasts superior power efficiency, consuming 26.8% less power than the RTX 2080, with a lower power draw of 181.5 W compared to 237.9 W.
  • Furthermore, the RTX 2080 boasts a stronger 1% low performance, exhibiting an impressive 35.7% improvement with 33 FPS compared to the GTX 1080’s 23 FPS.

Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 1440p Gaming Benchmarks – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • With its remarkable performance, the RTX 2080 sets itself apart, achieving an impressive average FPS of 64 vs 44 in benchmark tests, outshining the GTX 1080 by a notable 37%.
  • Additionally, with an impressive 8.1% or 5°C cooling advantage, the RTX 2080 maintains a remarkable average temperature of 59°C, outperforming the GTX 1080, which registers a higher average temperature of 64°C.
  • Furthermore, the GTX 1080 showcases better power efficiency, consuming 7% less power than the RTX 2080, with a power draw of 186.8 W in contrast to 200.4 W.
  • Moreover, the RTX 2080 delivers superior 1% low performance, showcasing a significant 34.6% improvement with 61 FPS compared to the GTX 1080’s 43 FPS.

More Comparisons: RTX 4070 Vs RTX 3070 Ti

Overall Gaming Performance

Overall Gaming Performance
Overall Gaming Performance 1440p Gaming Benchmarks – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)

After conducting a comprehensive analysis of the benchmark results, it is clear that one of the graphics cards emerges as the definitive victor in the GeForce GTX 1080 vs RTX 2080 performance comparison.

  • Based on our comprehensive benchmark analysis, it becomes clear that the RTX 2080 surpasses the GTX 1080 in both FPS and 1% lows, demonstrating superior performance in the majority of the tested games.
  • Furthermore, our thorough benchmark analysis reveals that the RTX 2080 exhibits superior performance over the GTX 1080, boasting an average FPS of 57.8 compared to the latter’s 38.5.
  • Our analysis clearly shows that the RTX 2080 delivers a remarkable 40.2% higher FPS performance compared to the GTX 1080, solidifying its position as the preferred graphics card for gaming purposes.

Average Power Consumption

Average Power Consumption
Average Power Consumption 1440p Gaming Benchmarks – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)

When it comes to selecting a graphics card, striking a balance between exceptional performance and optimal power consumption is paramount. Our thorough examination of the power usage between the GeForce GTX 1080 and RTX 2080 has yielded insightful findings.

  • To ensure optimal performance, the RTX 2080 requires a power supply of at least 550 W, considering its TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 215 W.
  • Unlike the RTX 2080, the GTX 1080 has a lower TDP rating of 180 W, which leads to lower power consumption and necessitates a minimum 500 W power supply for optimal functionality.
  • To phrase it differently, the RTX 2080 exhibits a higher TDP rating, which is 17.7% inferior to the TDP of the GTX 1080.
  • To provide further evidence, our benchmark tests consistently revealed that the RTX 2080 consumed 214.8 W, while the GTX 1080 consumed a lower 178.6 W in power consumption.
  • To emphasize, the average power consumption of the RTX 2080 during benchmark testing is 18.4% higher than the GTX 1080.

Average Thermal Statistics

Average Thermal Statistics
Average Thermal Statistics 1440p Gaming Benchmarks – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)

When it comes to assessing the performance and durability of a graphics card, temperature plays a pivotal role. Through meticulous monitoring and analysis of thermal data, we have acquired valuable insights into the thermal characteristics of the GeForce GTX 1080 and RTX 2080.

  • Contrary to the RTX 2060’s higher power consumption, the GTX 1080 exhibited lower thermal efficiency in our benchmark testing.
  • Moreover, throughout the benchmark testing, it was observed that the RTX 2080 consistently maintained lower temperatures compared to the GTX 1080, boasting an average temperature of 60.7°C as opposed to 67.3°C.
  • In conclusion, based on the benchmark results, the GTX 1080 exhibited a thermal efficiency that was 10.3% lower than that of the RTX 2080.

Also Read: RTX 3080 Vs 3080 Ti

Pricing And Availability

In our comprehensive evaluation of the GeForce GTX 1080 and RTX 2080, we conducted a thorough analysis of their pricing and availability, considering the impact of being part of NVIDIA’s latest GPU generation.

After examining multiple retailers, including Newegg, we observed that the RTX 2080 was priced at approximately $1000, while the GeForce GTX 1080 carried a more affordable price tag of around $500.

Moreover, it is important to highlight that the GeForce GTX 1080 comes at a significantly lower cost, with a price that is roughly 66.6% lower than that of the RTX 2080. However, it is essential to recognize that these price estimates are not fixed and can change as the dynamics of the market evolve over time.

GeForce GTX 1080 Vs RTX 2080: What’s The Performance Difference?

  • Firstly, the RTX 2080 presents a compelling, cost-effective option, with a notable 52.7% price difference and a 40.2% improvement in average FPS performance over the GTX 1080.
  • Despite the RTX 2080’s higher power consumption of 18.4%, it maintains a significantly lower average temperature of 10.3% compared to the GTX 1080.
  • Lastly, although the GTX 1080 offers better power efficiency, the RTX 2060 outshines it with its remarkable performance and outstanding thermal efficiency.

Pros And Cons

GPU Pros Cons
GeForce RTX 2080
  • Amazing performance at 1080p and 1440p
  • Comes with deep learning and ray tracing capability
  • The requirement of a 650 W PSU can be costly
GeForce GTX 1080
  • Big improvements compared to GTX 980
  • Comes with 4K and VR capability
  • Fans remain turned on even in an idle state

If you find yourself at a crossroads when selecting a graphics card, pondering the choice between the GeForce GTX 1080 and RTX 2080, rest assured that other enticing alternatives are worth exploring. Our comprehensive evaluations encompass not only the GTX 1080 and RTX 2080 but also two other formidable contenders: the RTX 4080 and RX 6950 XT.

FAQs

Which graphics card, the GTX 1080 or RTX 2080, offers better performance?

According to benchmarks, the RTX 2080 outperforms the GTX 1080 with a 40.2% higher average FPS and improved gaming capabilities.

What is the major difference between the  GTX 1080 and RTX 2080 in terms of pricing?

According to NewEgg, the RTX 2080 carries a higher price tag compared to the GTX 1080, reflecting its newer generation and advanced features.

Is the GTX 1080 still a viable option considering the performance of the RTX 2080?

The GTX 1080 remains a viable choice for gaming, especially for those seeking a more cost-effective solution without compromising on performance.

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