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Graphic cards are essential in gaming and other intensive tasks like video editing. The best graphic cards provide high frame rates, fast processing speed, and high resolutions for an immersive gaming experience. No gamer wants to experience lags and stuttering in the midst of their favorite game. That’s why serious gamers are keen on the GPU specifications when looking for a GPU to build a gaming rig to ensure they get the best quality.
Nvidia is a top graphic card manufacturer, delivering high-performing GPUs for modern-day gaming. Their RTX 3080 and RTS 4080 are no exception. Although they are in different generations, the two GPUs have all the features you need to enjoy uncompromised gaming performance. While the newer model performs better, RTX 3080 capabilities cannot be ignored. In this guide, we will explore how the two generations of graphic cards compare so you can make an informed decision when upgrading your GPU.
RTX 4080 vs. 3080: Side-by-Side Comparison
| RTX 4080 | RTX 3080 | |
|---|---|---|
| Release date | September 20, 2022 | September 17, 2020 |
| Price | $1199 | $699 |
| CUDA cores | 9728 | 8704 |
| Architecture | Ada Lovelace | Ampere |
| Memory interface | 256-bit | 320-bit |
| TDP | 320 Watt | 320 Watt |
| Memory size | 16 GB | 10 GB |
| Ray Tracing Cores | Gen 3 | Gen 2 |
| Boost Clock Speed (GHz) | 2.51 | 1.71 |
| Base Clock Speed (GHz) | 2.21 | 1.44 |
| Tensor Cores | 4th Gen | 3rd Gen |
- Powered by the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 (16 GB) graphics processing unit (GPU) with a 2.51 GHz boost clock speed
- PCI Express 4.0 and earlier PCI Express 3.0.
- Offers compatibility with a range of systems
- 9,728 NVIDIA CUDA Cores, 2.51 GHz Boost Clock, Dedicated Ray Tracing Cores
- Microsoft DirectX 12 Ultimate, Vulkan RT APIs
RTX 4080 vs. 3080: What’s The Difference?
Buying a new graphics card is a big decision. If you are looking to upgrade your Nvidia GPU from RTX 4080 to RTX 3080 and wondering whether it’s worth the investment, take a look at their differences. This comprehensive guide will highlight key differences between the two processors and help you pick the right graphics card.
Price
The most exciting thing about a new generation of graphics cards is the performance increase at almost similar price tiers to the previous generation. This is no different for RTS 3080 and 4080. Despite the massive inflation lately, nothing explains the $1199 price tag for the RTS 4080.
It delivers better performance than the previous generation flagship but also significantly cuts down in performance compared to RTS 4090, the flagship model for the RTS 40 series. The 3080 comes at a $699 price which is fit for its model, design, and features.
Performance
Both GPUs differ significantly in performance. The RTX features the new Ada Lovelace architecture, which revolutionalizes ray tracing and AI-based neural graphics. RTS 3080 features the Ampere architecture, which brings the power of Tensor Cores to HPC and acceleration for AI training and inference. Nvidia uses DLSS, an AI-enhanced video performance for both graphics. This explains the higher frame rates in PCs powered by these graphics. The AI occupies all the spaces, delivering unrivaled video graphics for immersive gaming experiences. The details are precise, and the resolution remains steady even when playing games with advanced graphics.
4080 has an advantage in frames because it features DLSS 3.0, a feature that most modern games support. This guarantees accelerated AI performance and make playing games at higher resolutions possible. DLSS 3.0 is powered by fourth-gen Tensor Cores, enhancing image quality and smoothness in multiple games.
Another impressive performance feature for the RTS 4080 is New Streaming Multiprocessors which deliver up to two times the efficiency and performance when streaming content or playing games.
Size and Hardware Features
Both models come with one HDMI 2.1 and three DisplayPort 1.4a. RTX 3080 has two versions with different memory sizes, a smaller one with 10GB and a slightly larger one with 12 GB. RTX 4080s 16GB memory gives it an upper hand in terms of graphics data storage.
In terms of size, the RTX 4080 is relatively larger than the 3080. It measures 12.3 x 5.35 x 2.12 inches, similar to the RTX 4090. On the other hand, 3080 is considered one of the smaller graphic cards in the market. It measures 11.2 inches in length, 4.4 inches in width, and 1.6 inches in height. This might be the best option for those looking for a smaller GPU or people with a PC case that is so occupied.
RTX 4080 vs. 3080: 8 Must-know Facts
- RTS 4080 features a more recent Ada Lovelace architecture, while RTX 3080 has Ampere technology proprietary for the RTS 30 series and below.
- Both support DLSS, but 4080 has an advantage in frames because it features DLSS 3.0, a feature that most modern games support.
- RTS 3080 is cheaper than the RTS 4080.
- RTX 4080 is larger than the 3080, at 12.3 x 5.35 x 2.12 inches against 11.2 x 4.4 x 1.6 inches.
- RTS 3080, released in September 2020, is two years older than RTS 4080, launched in September 2022.
- RTS 4080 is equipped with generation 3 ray tracing cores, while RTS 3080 has generation 2.
- The tensor cores on RTS 3080 are 3rd Gen, and RTS 4080 are the fourth generation.
- Both models come with one HDMI 2.1 and three DisplayPort 1.4a.
- 12GB GDDR6X Memory
- 19,000MHz memory clock speed
- Enhanced Tensor and RT Cores for a super fast gaming experience
- Scored 69.51 points on Passmark's benchmark test
RTX 4080 vs. 3080: Which One Is Better? Which One Should You Use?
Both graphics card have their pros and cons. The RTX 4080 delivers ultra-performance and next-gen features. Modern games are now supporting DLSS 3.0, making it clear that this is the future and the path most games will take. RTS 4080 is well positioned for the new changes because it features DLSS 3.0 powered by fourth-gen Tensor Cores, which enhances image quality and smoothness in multiple games. RTS 4080s New Streaming Multiprocessors can deliver up to two times the efficiency and performance when streaming content or playing games.
RTX 3080 may the cheaper, but it cannot match the 4080s performance. However, if you are looking for standard performance in the RTS 30 series at an affordable price, RTS 3080 is sure to deliver. It’s also smaller than RTS 4080, making it a perfect choice for people with limited space in their PC cases.
