The GeForce RTX 4080 Super was released on Wednesday, January 31, 2024 and the comparison between it and the model it replaced (Nvidia RTX 4080) has been a popular topic among gamers and creators. The Super version offers improved core counts and clock speeds compared to the standard RTX 4080.
While the technical enhancements are noticeable in the Super variant, users are curious about whether the improvements justify its higher price point. The decision between the two often comes down to the individual’s budget, performance needs, and the types of tasks they plan to tackle.
Nvidia RTX 4080 Super vs RTX 4080: Key Differences
Small, But Significant Changes
Both graphics cards, the Nvidia RTX 4080 Super and the standard RTX 4080, are built on the same Ada Lovelace architecture. They are both powerhouses designed for top-tier gaming and creative workloads. Yet, some subtle differences set the Super apart.
The RTX 4080 Super has a slight edge in terms of CUDA cores, the main processing units within the GPU. It boasts 10,240 cores, compared to 9,728 in the original 4080. This translates to a modest increase in raw processing power, potentially boosting performance in demanding tasks.
The Super also sees a minor clock speed increase, both at base and boost frequencies. This means it can operate slightly faster, further enhancing its performance. However, these differences might not be noticeable in everyday use unless you’re pushing the cards to their limits.
Price and Performance Trade-Offs
The biggest difference that most consumers will care about is the price. Nvidia has strategically priced the 4080 Super lower than the original 4080 at launch. This makes the Super a more enticing option for those seeking the best value for their money. While the performance gains are marginal, the lower price could make the Super the smarter choice for budget-conscious gamers.
However, availability might be a factor. The 4080 has been out longer, meaning there might be more stock available, and potentially, deals to be found. If you can find the original 4080 at a significantly reduced price, it might be worth considering over the Super, especially if you don’t need the absolute peak performance.
Summary Table: NVIDIA RTX 4080 Super vs RTX 4080
| Feature | RTX 4080 Super | RTX 4080 |
|---|---|---|
| CUDA Cores | 10,240 | 9,728 |
| Base Clock | 2.29 GHz | 2.21 GHz |
| Boost Clock | 2.55 GHz | 2.51 GHz |
| Memory | 16GB GDDR6X | 16GB GDDR6X |
| Price | Lower (at launch) | Higher (at launch) |
The Verdict
Choosing between the Nvidia RTX 4080 Super and the standard RTX 4080 comes down to personal preference and budget. The Super offers slightly better performance for a lower price, making it a solid choice for most gamers. However, if you can find the original 4080 at a good discount and don’t mind sacrificing a few frames per second, it could be a more cost-effective option.
Key Takeaways
- The RTX 4080 Super offers marginally better performance due to increased core counts and clock speeds.
- Price plays a significant role in choosing between the RTX 4080 and the RTX 4080 Super.
- The choice between the two models will depend on the user’s specific performance requirements for gaming or content creation.
Technical Specifications and Performance
In comparing the RTX 4080 Super to the RTX 4080, it is important to look at their technical aspects and how they perform. This provides a clear picture of what each card offers.
Architecture and CUDA Cores
Nvidia’s Ada Lovelace architecture is the foundation for both the RTX 4080 and the 4080 Super. The RTX 4080 comes with 9,728 CUDA cores. The Super version has more cores, totaling 10,240, which suggests it can handle more data at once for better performance.
Memory and Bandwidth
Both the RTX 4080 and RTX 4080 Super feature 16GB of GDDR6X VRAM. This type of memory is very fast and both cards can quickly move large amounts of data. The exact memory bandwidth is not mentioned in the search results but typically, more CUDA cores can mean better usage of available memory bandwidth.
Ray Tracing and DLSS Capabilities
These Nvidia cards offer ray tracing and DLSS 3 support. Ray tracing makes games look more realistic by simulating how light behaves. DLSS, or Deep Learning Super Sampling, helps games run smoother. The RTX 4080 has 76 3rd gen RT cores and 304 4th gen Tensor cores. The Super likely has more but details are not stated.
Clock Speed and TDP
The RTX 4080’s clock speed ranges from a 2.2GHz base to a 2.5GHz boost. This helps the card run fast. TDP, or Thermal Design Power, is 320W. It shows how much heat the card emits and suggests how much power it uses. The RTX 4080 Super likely has a slightly higher clock speed and TDP due to its increased core count, but specifics are not given.
Benchmarking Results
The search results do not provide specific benchmark tests or frame rates. However, benchmarks usually measure a graphics card’s performance in games and other tasks. Since the RTX 4080 Super has more CUDA cores, it might perform a bit better in these tests compared to the RTX 4080.
Price Comparison and Value
The launch price for the RTX 4080 Super is listed as about $959, slightly higher than the RTX 4080’s cost. Value is measured by how well the card performs in relation to its price. More CUDA cores and potentially better performance in the Super could justify the higher price for some users.
Design and Build Quality
The materials and build quality of both the RTX 4080 and the Super model determine their durability and heat management. They are typically designed to last and perform well under load. No detailed comparison of their physical design or build quality is provided in the search results.
Real-World Gaming and Content Creation Performance
This section evaluates how the Nvidia RTX 4080 Super and RTX 4080 perform across gaming and content creation tasks.
4K Gaming Experience
The Nvidia RTX 4080 Super offers a smooth 4K gaming experience. Games like Cyberpunk 2077 run at high frame rates with ray tracing enabled. Compared to the RTX 4080, the Super version adds minimal performance gains but allows players to enjoy detailed graphics with less risk of lag.
Professional Workloads and Content Creation
For content creators, the RTX 4080 Super speeds up workflows in video editing and 3D rendering. It beats the standard RTX 4080 slightly in tests involving graphics design software, making it a potential upgrade for those looking for faster rendering times.
Comparison with Competitors
When comparing the 4080 Super with AMD’s Radeon RX 7900 XTX, benchmarks show the RTX often leading in performance. Although AMD’s offering competes closely in price, Nvidia’s 4080 Super maintains an edge for certain professional applications.
Gaming Titles Performance Analysis
Benchmark tests across various games show that the RTX 4080 Super consistently outperforms its predecessor. In titles like Alan Wake 2, players can expect higher frame rates and improved graphics rendering with the RTX 4080 Super.
Potential for Future-Proofing
Investing in an RTX 4080 Super proves wise for gamers and creators looking to future-proof their PC. The card’s frame generation and large memory pool support upcoming gaming titles and demanding content creation tasks.
User Experience and Ecosystem
The RTX 4080 Super is more than an upgrade in power. It fits into Nvidia’s gaming and content creation ecosystem, with driver support and software that optimizes performance. Its price point also positions it as a high-value option within Nvidia’s current graphics card hierarchy.
Frequently Asked Questions
When choosing between the RTX 4080 Super and the RTX 4080, understanding their differences is key.
What are the key differences in specifications between the RTX 4080 Super and the RTX 4080?
The RTX 4080 Super has more CUDA cores and a slightly higher clock speed. It also comes with faster VRAM, providing a small performance boost over the RTX 4080.
How do the prices of the RTX 4080 Super and the RTX 4080 compare?
Typically, the RTX 4080 Super is priced higher than the RTX 4080. The exact cost difference can vary based on the retailer and region.
What performance improvements can be expected from the RTX 4080 Super over the RTX 4080?
The performance increase of the RTX 4080 Super is modest. It offers a slight boost in games and applications, depending on resolution settings and the specific workload.
Considering the cost-to-performance ratio, is the RTX 4080 Super a worthwhile upgrade?
It depends on the user’s need for the increased performance. If small gains matter, the RTX 4080 Super could be worthwhile. However, for many, the RTX 4080 may offer better value.
Can you explain the distinctions between the standard RTX models and the Super variants?
Super models, like the 4080 Super, offer improved specs over standard models. This includes increased core counts, memory, and higher clock speeds.
Which model offers the best value among the RTX 4080 options available?
Determining the best value depends on individual preferences and budget. Consider performance needs and price to decide between the RTX 4080 and the Super variant.
