The video critiques the NVIDIA RTX 5080 graphics card, highlighting its modest 14% performance improvement over the RTX 4080 and 4080 Super, despite a price tag of $1,000, raising concerns about its value compared to previous models. While it features lower power consumption and improved thermal performance, the overall sentiment is disappointment, suggesting potential buyers consider alternatives like the RTX 4080 Super or even a used 4090 for better value.
The video discusses the upcoming launch of NVIDIA’s RTX 5080 graphics card, highlighting its performance and value compared to previous generations. The presenter notes that the RTX 5080, priced at $1,000, offers only a modest improvement over the RTX 480 and 480 Super, with an average performance increase of just 14%. This is significantly lower than the 36% leap seen with the RTX 4080 compared to the 3080, indicating that this generation of GPUs may not deliver substantial advancements in performance relative to power consumption.
The RTX 5080 features slightly more shaders and utilizes a smaller silicon process, maintaining the same 16 GB VRAM capacity but with higher bandwidth due to GDDR7. However, the performance gains in various games are underwhelming, with some titles showing as little as a 4% improvement. In comparison, the RTX 4080 Super, which is priced similarly, yields an average improvement of only 9%, with some games exhibiting nearly identical performance to the 5080. This raises concerns about NVIDIA’s strategy and the perceived value of the new GPU.
One positive aspect of the RTX 5080 is its lower power consumption, with an average draw of 273 watts, which is lower than the listed TDP of 360 watts. This results in better thermal performance, with the Founders Edition maintaining a temperature of 65°C under load. While lower power draw is generally favorable, in this case, it may contribute to the perception that the 5080 lacks the performance expected from a flagship card. For users upgrading from older GPUs like the 3080, the 5080 offers a significant performance boost, but for those with 4080s, the upgrade seems unnecessary.
The video also touches on NVIDIA’s new DLSS 4 multiframe generation feature, which has received mixed reviews. The presenter finds it more effective on higher-end cards like the 4090, where the starting frame rate is higher, resulting in a smoother experience. However, on the 5080, the lower starting frame rates lead to more noticeable visual artifacts and latency, making it less appealing for competitive gaming. The feature is suggested for single-player games, where users can enjoy enhanced frame rates without the same level of concern for input lag.
Ultimately, the presenter advises potential buyers to consider their options carefully, especially since the RTX 4080 Super may be available at a lower price or even a used 4090 might be a better investment. The RTX 5080, while a decent option for those upgrading from older models, does not seem to justify its price point when compared to the alternatives. The overall sentiment is one of disappointment regarding NVIDIA’s latest offering, suggesting that consumers should weigh their choices before making a purchase.