RTX 2070 Vs RTX 2080: Worth Upgrading In 2023?

Nvidia introduced the GeForce RTX 2070 and RTX 2080 graphics cards at the end of 2018 as a part of its first RTX series (the RTX 20 Series). They feature Nvidia’s Turing architecture and real-time ray tracing technology, offering significant performance and visual fidelity improvements compared to their predecessor GTX 16 series. In our RTX 2070 vs RTX 2080 comparison, we will analyze these GPUs’ specifications and gaming performance.

Key Takeaways

• In gaming performance, the Nvidia RTX 2080 edges out the RTX 2070 with an average margin of around 20.9%.
• Considering the GPU gaming temperature, the thermal efficiency of the RTX 2070 is 11.2% higher than that of the RTX 2080.
• Regarding GPU price, the RTX 2070 is currently priced between $550 and $650, while the RTX 2080 ranges from $750 to $850.

RTX 2070 Vs RTX 2080

Comparison Table

Distinctive Features

The primary feature of the RTX 2070 and the RTX 2080 is Nvidia’s Turing architecture. It is the successor to the Pascal architecture of Nvidia’s GTX graphics cards and was first introduced in 2018. The Turing architecture commenced advancements in graphics rendering by including real-time ray tracing and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities.

Another paramount aspect of these graphics cards is the Nvidia Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) Technology. This technology renders games at lower resolutions and then employs artificial intelligence and deep learning algorithms to instantly upscale low-resolution images to higher resolutions. Thus, the GPU’s frame rate performance is improved.

Also Read: RX 5700 XT Vs RTX 2070 Super

If we look at the chips used in developing these GPUs, the RTX 2070 uses the TU106 chip, whereas the RTX 2080 employs the TU104 chip. These chips are manufactured at TSMC at a 12nm fabrication process.

When comparing the clock speed of the two GPUs, the RTX 2080 displays a 7.7% faster base clock and a 5% faster boost clock than the RTX 2070. These graphics cards are also unlocked for overclocking. The stock clock speeds suggest that the RTX 2080 may outperform the RTX 2070. Nevertheless, a meticulous examination of gaming benchmarks is required to ascertain the true performance of these GPUs.

Regarding the memory specifications of the RTX 2070 and the RTX 2080, they feature the same 8GB GDDR6 memory with 256-Bit interface width. Their memory operating speed is 1750 MHz or 14Gbps.

Let’s now discuss the power specifications of these GPUs. The thermal design power of the RTX 2070 stands at 185 W, whereas that of the RTX 2080 is 225 W. The TDP is a crucial factor that affects the performance of these GPUs. Higher TDP values typically translate to better performance. However, this also means increased energy consumption and higher electricity costs. Given that the RTX 2080 boasts a higher TDP and demands greater system power, it is reasonable to conclude that it would consume more energy and result in higher operating costs.

Gaming Benchmarks

To scrutinize its gaming capabilities is the most practical method to evaluate the performance of graphics cards. In the following comparison of the GeForce RTX 2070 vs RTX 2080, we will appraise the performance and efficiencies of these graphics cards across 9 intensive games played at 1440p resolution. The technical specifications of the system used to run these games are listed below.

Gaming Rig

• OS: Windows 10 Pro
• CPU: Intel Core i7 8700K – 3.7 GHz
• GPU 1: Nvidia RTX 2070 8GB
• GPU 2: Nvidia RTX 2080 8GB
• RAM: 16GB DDR4 3200MHz

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey

• In Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, the RTX 2080 provided 17.3% or 9 FPS greater performance than the RTX 2070.
• The RTX 2070 produced an average frame rate of 52 FPS at 1440p, while the RTX 2080 produced a higher average of 61 FPS.
• During the gameplay, the RTX 2080 maintained a temperature of 59°C, while the RTX 2070 operated at 58°C.

Battlefield V

• The RTX 2080 outperformed the RTX 2070 in Battlefield V by 19.8% or 17 more frames per second.
• At 1440p, the RTX 2070 delivered an average frame rate of 86 FPS, while the RTX 2080 delivered a higher average of 103 FPS.
• While playing Battlefield V, the RTX 2080 kept its temperature at 59°C while the RTX 2070 ran at 57°C.

Far Cry 5

• During Far Cry 5, the RTX 2080 delivered 17.5% or 15 FPS better performance than the RTX 2070.
• The RTX 2070 generated an average frame rate of 86 FPS, whereas the RTX 2080 produced an average of 101 FPS.
• Regarding the GPU temperature, the RTX 2080 maintained 62°C in Far Cry 5, whereas the RTX 2070 operated at 59°C.

Forza Horizon 4

• In Forza Horizon 4, the RTX 2080 surpassed the RTX 2070 by a performance margin of 35.4% or 29 FPS.
• The RTX 2070 achieved an average frame rate of 82 FPS at 1440p, whereas the RTX 2080 recorded a higher average of 111 FPS.
• In terms of the GPU temperature, the RTX 2080 reached 59°C during Forza Horizon 4, whereas the RTX 2070 ran cooler at 57°C.

Grand Theft Auto V

• During Grand Theft Auto V, the RTX 2080 defeated the RTX 2070 by 20.7% or 17 FPS greater performance.
• At 1440p, the RTX 2070 averaged 82 FPS, whereas the RTX 2080 scored a higher average of 99 FPS.
• The RTX 2080 hit 62°C in GTA V, while the RTX 2070 had a temperature of 60°C.

Hitman 2

• The RTX 2080 outperformed the RTX 2070 in Hitman 2 by 20.5% or 15 more frames per second.
• During the gameplay, the RTX 2070 produced a lower average frame rate of 73 FPS, whereas the RTX 2080 achieved a better average of 88 FPS at 1440p.
• Regarding the GPU temperature, the RTX 2080 reached 64°C, whereas the RTX 2070 reached 61°C.

Also Check: 2070 Super Vs 3060

Project Cars 2

• In Project Cars 2, the RTX 2080 achieved a performance lead of 16.4% or 18 FPS against the RTX 2070.
• The RTX 2070 provided an average frame rate of 110 FPS, whereas the RTX 2080 provided a higher average of 128 FPS at 1440p.
• During Project Cars 2, the RTX 2080 temperature was 62°C, whereas that of the RTX 2070 was 60°C.

Shadow Of The Tomb Raider

• The RTX 2080 outscored the RTX 2070 by 20.6% higher performance or 14 more FPS in Shadow of the Tomb Raider.
• While playing the game at 1440p, the RTX 2080 delivered a better average frame rate of 82 FPS compared to the 68 FPS average of the RTX 2070.
• Considering the GPU temperature, the RTX 2070 (61°C) operated at a 1°C lower temperature than the RTX 2080 (62°C) during Shadow of the Tomb Raider.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

• In The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the RTX 2080 crushes the RTX 2070 by averaging 20% higher performance or 17 more FPS.
• During the gameplay, the RTX 2080 turned a stunning average frame rate of 102 FPS, whereas the RTX 2070 could only make up 85 FPS.
• Talking about the GPU temperature, the RTX 2070 (61°C) kept its temperature 3°C lower than the RTX 2080 (64°C).

Overall Gaming Stats

After carefully examining the performance of the RTX 2070 and RTX 2080 in 9 games individually, let’s review the overall gaming metrics to determine which GPU is superior.

Performance

• The Nvidia RTX 2080 emerges as the indisputable victor in the FPS (frames per second) battle against the RTX 2070, boasting an impressive average margin of approximately 20.9%.
• At 1440p resolution, the RTX 2080 exhibited an exceptional 97.2 FPS average, whereas the RTX 2070 could only muster 80.4 FPS.
• It is noteworthy that the RTX 2070 could not defeat the RTX 2080 in any game, further solidifying the latter’s (RTX 2080’s) position as the superior GPU.

Must Read: RTX 2070 Super Vs RTX 3060: Which Is Better In 2023?

Thermal Efficiency

• In terms of gaming temperature, the RTX 2070 surpasses the RTX 2080 by exhibiting a 3.5% higher efficiency.
• During the 1440p gaming session, the average temperature of the RTX 2070 was 59.3°C, while that of the RTX 2080 was 61.4°C.
• The average gaming temperatures of these GPUs do not exhibit a significant variance, as their maximum operating temperatures differ only by a mere 1°C (89°C for RTX 2070 and 88°C for RTX 2080).

Generally, older graphics cards are more prone to overheating when subjected to high-stress loads. To tackle them, seek help from our guide on How To Lower GPU Temperature? [Ultimate Guide]

Price And Availability

The factors of price and availability also sway the selection of a GPU. In the context of MSRP, Nvidia priced the RTX 2070 at $499 and RTX 2080 at $699. The mentioned prices refer to their launch prices in 2018, which have likely fluctuated over time.

The current price of the RTX 2080 is around $750 to $850, while that of the RTX 2070 is about $550 to $650. These graphics cards are also available in refurbished condition, usually costing much less.

Considering the availability aspect, the RTX 2070 and the RTX 2080 are generally available in both new and refurbished condition, with numerous online and physical vendors offering them for purchase. These GPUs can be conveniently ordered online through e-commerce websites like Amazon, Newegg, and others.

Which One Should You Go For?

• If you prioritize an exclusive gaming experience with greater performance and have no financial constraints, I recommend you choose the RTX 2080.
• However, if you prioritize cost-effectiveness and thermal efficiency and have financial restrictions, I recommend the RTX 2070.
• The RTX 2070 is not only cheaper but also has better thermal performance than the RTX 2080.

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Pros And Cons