The graphics card market is constantly evolving, and with the release of new models like the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 Super and the highly anticipated RTX 5080, gamers are faced with the age-old question: which one is better for gaming? In this in-depth comparison, we'll explore the key differences between these two powerhouses to help you make an informed decision for your gaming setup.
The RTX 5080 comes with 10,752 CUDA cores, while the RTX 4080 Super has 10,240. This 5% increase in CUDA cores on the 5080 might seem minor, but it can contribute to a performance boost in certain applications and games. In terms of clock speeds, the RTX 5080 has a boost clock of 2.6 GHz, compared to the 2.55 GHz of the 4080 Super. While the difference is not huge, it can also play a role in overall performance.
Memory bandwidth is crucial for gaming performance, especially when dealing with high-resolution textures and large game worlds. The RTX 5080 features faster GDDR7 memory with a speed of 30 Gbps, resulting in a memory bandwidth of 960 Gbps. In contrast, the RTX 4080 Super uses GDDR6X memory with a speed of 23 Gbps, providing a memory bandwidth of 736.3 Gbps. This significant increase in memory bandwidth on the 5080 allows for quicker data transfer, which can lead to smoother gameplay and reduced loading times in games.
In benchmark tests, the RTX 5080 generally shows a performance edge over the 4080 Super. For example, in 4K gaming, the 5080 is around 20% faster on average. However, the margin varies depending on the game. In some titles, the difference is more pronounced, while in others, the 4080 Super can keep up relatively well. At 1440p, the performance uplift of the 5080 is closer to 16%, highlighting that the performance gap between the two cards is more significant at higher resolutions.
Ray tracing is a technology that simulates the behavior of light in a scene, resulting in more realistic lighting and reflections in games. The RTX 5080 is equipped with 84 fourth-generation RT cores, while the 4080 Super has 80 third-generation RT cores. The new generation of RT cores in the 5080 is designed to be more efficient at handling ray tracing calculations. According to NVIDIA, the fourth-generation RT cores can reduce memory occupancy by 25% and double the intersection rate of rays with triangles. This means that the 5080 can perform ray tracing tasks more quickly and with less strain on the system's memory.
In games that support ray tracing, the RTX 5080 demonstrates a clear advantage. For instance, in titles like "Cyberpunk 2077" and "Black Myth: Wukong," the 5080 can maintain higher frame rates when ray tracing is enabled. In "Black Myth: Wukong," the 5080 is able to retain 60 fps even with DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) assisting, which is a remarkable feat considering the demanding nature of ray tracing in this game. The 4080 Super also performs well in ray tracing scenarios, but the 5080's superior RT core technology gives it a performance boost in these types of games.
One of the standout features of the RTX 5080 is its support for DLSS 4, which includes multi - frame generation. DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) uses AI to upscale lower - resolution images to higher resolutions, improving performance without sacrificing too much image quality. DLSS 4's multi - frame generation can create three or even four intermediate frames between two real ones. In compatible games, this can double or even triple the frame rate, resulting in much smoother gameplay. For example, in some games, the 5080 with DLSS 4 and multi - frame generation can achieve over 200 fps at 4K, which is a significant improvement over the 4080 Super. The 4080 Super, on the other hand, uses the older DLSS 3 technology, which can only create one intermediate frame between two real frames, providing a more limited performance boost.
Tensor cores are responsible for accelerating AI - related tasks in the GPU. The RTX 5080 comes with 336 fifth - generation tensor cores, while the 4080 Super has 320 fourth - generation tensor cores. The new generation of tensor cores in the 5080 is more optimized for AI - powered features like DLSS. In tasks related to AI - based graphics enhancements, the 5080's tensor cores can provide a performance advantage. For example, in games that use AI - based anti - aliasing or other AI - enhanced visual effects, the 5080 can process these tasks more efficiently, leading to better - looking graphics and potentially higher frame rates.
The RTX 4080 Super, at least in its reference design, comes with a large, overbuilt cooler similar to the RTX 4090. This cooler is highly effective at keeping the GPU cool and quiet, even under heavy loads. However, it takes up four slots, which can be a challenge for some PC cases, especially smaller ones. In contrast, the RTX 5080 features a more compact cooler that is only two slots wide. This makes it more suitable for small form factor PCs. While the 5080's cooler is smaller, it is still designed to handle the card's power requirements, but in small case systems, the overall system temperature may increase due to the card's high power draw.
The RTX 5080 has a total board power (TBP) of 360W, while the RTX 4080 Super has a TBP of 320W. The 5080's higher power consumption is due to its more powerful components and the additional features it offers. However, considering the performance improvements it provides, the 5080's performance - per - watt ratio is still competitive. In fact, in some scenarios, the 5080 can offer better performance per watt compared to the 4080 Super. But it's important to note that a higher - wattage power supply may be required to run the 5080, and it will also contribute to higher electricity bills over time.
Both the RTX 5080 and the RTX 4080 Super have a suggested retail price (MSRP) of $999. However, in the real - world market, availability and third - party pricing can vary significantly. Due to high demand and limited supply, especially for new releases like the 5080, the actual price you may pay could be much higher. Third - party sellers may mark up the price, and scalpers can also drive the cost up. The 4080 Super, being an older model, may be more likely to be found at or closer to its MSRP, especially if you're willing to search around for deals.
As of now, the RTX 5080 is a relatively new release, and its availability may be limited in some regions. Finding a 5080 in stock at the MSRP can be a challenge. In contrast, the 4080 Super has been on the market for a while, and although it may also face some stock shortages, it is generally more widely available. If you need a graphics card immediately and can't wait for the 5080 to become more readily available, the 4080 Super may be a more practical choice.
In conclusion, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 offers several advantages over the RTX 4080 Super for gaming. It has a performance edge in both traditional gaming scenarios and in ray - traced games, thanks to its improved CUDA core count, faster memory, and more advanced RT and tensor cores. The addition of DLSS 4 with multi - frame generation is a game - changer for smooth gameplay at high resolutions. However, the 5080 also comes with a higher power consumption and may be more difficult to obtain at a reasonable price due to its new release status.
If you have a high - end gaming PC with a powerful power supply and can afford to wait for the 5080 to become more available at a reasonable price, or if you are specifically interested in the latest AI - powered graphics features, the RTX 5080 is the better choice. It offers a significant performance upgrade, especially in games that support its advanced features.
On the other hand, if you need a graphics card immediately, have a smaller PC case, or are on a tighter budget, the RTX 4080 Super is still a very capable card. It can handle most modern games at high resolutions with good performance and is more likely to be found at or near its MSRP. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your specific gaming needs, budget, and system configuration.
