Nvidia has unveiled the GeForce RTX 5080, a mid-range powerhouse priced at $1,000.1 Positioned between the flagship RTX 5090 and more affordable models, the 5080 aims to deliver high-end gaming performance. However, our in-depth testing reveals a more nuanced picture.
Performance Gains: Moderate at Best
Compared to its predecessor, the RTX 4080 Super, the 5080 offers modest performance gains. In our tests, we observed an average of just 4% improvement at 1440p and 11% at 4K. While these are noticeable gains, they fall short of the generational leap many enthusiasts were anticipating.
Ray Tracing Performance: Limited Improvements
While the RTX 5080 boasts improved ray tracing capabilities, the performance gains over the 4080 Super are generally modest. In many titles, the difference was minimal, indicating limited advancements in ray tracing performance.
Cost-Effectiveness: A Question Mark
Priced at $1,000, the RTX 5080 faces stiff competition. The 4080 Super, which offered comparable performance at a lower price point earlier this year, presents a compelling alternative. AMD’s Radeon RX 7900 XTX also provides strong competition, offering excellent value for its price.2
Thermal Performance and Efficiency
The RTX 5080 demonstrates impressive thermal performance, running cool and quiet under load.3 However, these gains are largely expected from a newer generation of architecture.
Conclusion
The GeForce RTX 5080 delivers solid performance, but its modest improvements over the 4080 Super and its relatively high price point raise questions about its value proposition. While it offers a significant upgrade over older 30-series GPUs, it may not be the ideal choice for gamers seeking a substantial generational leap in performance.
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