GPU Comparison

Select up to 2 GPUs to analyze their pricing, performance, and specifications side-by-side.

Quick Verdict

On raw speed the GeForce GTX 1080 comes out significantly faster — about 33% ahead of the GeForce GTX 980. It also wins on performance-per-dollar, making it the cleaner choice when you can afford it.

Maximum Capacity Reached. Remove a model to add another. (2/2)

VS
NVIDIA
GeForce GTX 1080
Price
$350
Perf Index
16%
Value Score
0.046
VRAM8GB GDDR6
Thermal TDP180W
Price
$1245
Perf Index
12%
Value Score
0.010
VRAM4GB GDDR6
Thermal TDP165W

GeForce GTX 1080 vs GeForce GTX 980: In-Depth Breakdown

Performance: GeForce GTX 1080 vs GeForce GTX 980

The GeForce GTX 1080 is significantly faster, around 33% ahead of the GeForce GTX 980. That gap is enough to move it up a tier: the GeForce GTX 1080 is comfortable at 1080p, while the GeForce GTX 980 is better matched to entry-level 1080p.

Price & Value

The GeForce GTX 1080 currently lists from $350, $895 less than the GeForce GTX 980 at $1,245. Because it's both faster and competitively priced, the GeForce GTX 1080 wins on performance-per-dollar by about 374%. The GeForce GTX 1080 is trading below its $599 MSRP — a genuine deal. The GeForce GTX 980 still sits about $696 above its $549 MSRP.

Power & Efficiency

On power, the GeForce GTX 980 is the gentler choice at 165W versus 180W. The GeForce GTX 1080 is more efficient per watt because it's faster, but its higher 180W draw means more heat and a bigger PSU.

VRAM & Future-Proofing

The GeForce GTX 1080 carries 8GB versus 4GB on the GeForce GTX 980. The extra 4GB helps at 4K, with high-resolution texture packs, and for content-creation or local-AI workloads that exhaust smaller buffers.

Generation & Longevity

The GeForce GTX 1080 is roughly 2 years newer than the GeForce GTX 980, so it generally benefits from a more modern architecture and longer driver-support runway.

Which should you buy: GeForce GTX 1080 or GeForce GTX 980?

the GeForce GTX 1080 is the all-round winner here — it's faster and the better value, so buy it if it fits your budget. Only consider the GeForce GTX 980 if you find it at a steep discount.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GeForce GTX 1080 better than the GeForce GTX 980?

The GeForce GTX 1080 is significantly faster, roughly 33% ahead. If your budget allows, it's the stronger pick.

Which is better for 4K gaming, the GeForce GTX 1080 or the GeForce GTX 980?

Neither is a dedicated 4K card; both are best at 1080p. For 4K you'd want a faster GPU, or lean on upscaling.

Is the GeForce GTX 980 worth the extra $895 over the GeForce GTX 1080?

Only if you need the extra performance or features; on pure value the GeForce GTX 1080 comes out ahead.

Does the GeForce GTX 1080 have enough VRAM advantage to matter?

Its 8GB (vs 4GB) gives real headroom for 4K, heavy texture mods, and creative/AI work. At 1080p the gap matters less.