Best NVIDIA RTX 3080 Graphics Cards – 2023 Review

Austin
| Last Updated: January 14, 2023

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Ready to take your gaming experience to the next level? The NVIDIA RTX GeForce 3080 is here, and it's the ultimate graphics card for competitive gamers. This ultra-reliable graphics card powers through 4K and HDR gaming, all the way up to the latest 8K. 

The RTX GPUs are built on an innovative Ampere architecture that supports a range of increasingly demanding applications—from games and product design to medical imaging and scientific visualization. Check out what you can do with this leading-edge technology!

Comparison Chart of the Best RTX 3080

IMAGE PRODUCT
  • Smaller than most RTX 3080
  • Superb cooling better than Founder’s Edition
  • Relatively budget-friendly
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  • Excellent cooling
  • Operates quietly even at peak loads
  • Ready-to-use
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  • Outperforms RTX 2080 Ti
  • Effective cooling mechanism
  • Better build for longer service life
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Pros and Cons of the RTX 3080 

NVIDIA's newest RTX GeForce 3080 graphics card is great for gamers, content creators, and professionals who want to be on the cutting edge of technology. 

The new GPU has some really cool features that could help you game better, but there are also some downsides. Let’s take a look at them both!

Pros

The new NVIDIA RTX GeForce 3080 graphics card is a massive upgrade from its predecessors, and it has a lot of features that gamers will surely love.

To learn more about this exciting development in graphics cards, you should definitely check this one out!

Excellent for 1440p or 4K gaming

This high-end graphics card is powerful enough to play the games you love in 1440p or 4K. You'll take on challenges with ease and know that your money was well spent on this high-tech video game processor.  

Great cooling system

The RTX 3080's superb cooling system prevents it from overheating, so you'll never have to worry about burning anything up. The GPU is lightning quick too, so all your gameplays and model renders should be smooth sailing.

Same MSRP as RTX 2080 Super

This engineering marvel is a budget-friendly workhorse of NVIDIA cards. You can't go wrong when picking up the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 for an MSRP of only $699, which is the same as the launch price of the earlier model RTX 2080 Super.

Runs quietly, even at top speeds

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 graphics card is perfect to power smoothly through your favorite games. It has excellent cooling, which helps it run silently at speeds up to 85% load with an LED-lit surface to let you know how hard it's working.

Amazing frame rate boost

With the DLSS technology, this GPU will provide you with the ultimate gaming experience with its crystal clear graphics and visuals that allow for true 4K quality. If you’re looking for a fast frame rate to keep up in action, then the Nvidia RTX 3080 is perfect for your needs. 

Cons

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 is a great product, but it has some caveats. 

Here are three things you should know about this video card:

Pin connector issues

One limitation is that it won’t work with the standard power connectors since the RTX 3080 uses a different 12-pin power header requiring 300 watts. Thankfully, it comes with an adapter with a pair of 8-pin power connectors on the other end, delivering 150 watts on each.

High power supply demand

With a high energy demand of at least 750 watts, this card can be difficult if you are looking for a power-efficient video card.  This energy-thirsty GPU draws plenty of power that could easily pile up on your electricity bills. 

Uses 10 GB VRAM

The RTX 3080 graphics card uses 10 GB video RAM capacity, which may already be pushing its limits when rendering the latest titles at 4K or greater pixels. Such resolution needs around 16 GB VRAM to run comfortably.

Review of the Best RTX 3080 Graphics Cards

EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 XC3 Ultra Gaming

PROS

  • Smaller than most RTX 3080
  • Superb cooling better than Founder’s Edition
  • Relatively budget-friendly
  • Three-year warranty
  • Customizable ARGB

CONS

  • Slight gains from Founder’s Edition
  • Limited stock availability
  • High power requirement

What Recent Buyers Report

This EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 XC3 Ultra Gaming graphics card has some customization options, so you can pick your favorite vibrant colors for ARGB to ensure it matches your style. On the other hand, this video card requires a high energy demand of at least 750 watts to run.

Why It Stands Out to Us

EVGA’s RTX 3080 graphics card includes a 3-year warranty, a guarantee that the card was fabricated without any defects that may affect your system's performance. 

The GPU’s cooling mechanism was engineered to provide a superior reduction in temperatures compared to the Founder’s Edition. 

Lastly, it is wise to consider the EVGA’s RTX 3080 for your next graphics card upgrade since it is an affordably-priced GPU that delivers high-quality gaming without a hefty price tag.

Who Will Use This Most

The EVGA RTX 3080 is a wonderful option for anyone who wants to experience real-time ray tracing but isn't ready to invest in the higher-end prices. It is suitable for professionals looking to do intensive art or engineering work for long hours without overheating.

Bottom Line

The EVGA RTX-3080 graphics card is equipped with the impressive NVIDIA’s Ampere architecture assembled in a compact size that fits any build. Due to its limited stock supply yet high demand, it is now quite difficult to order and have one.

ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 3080 Trinity OC

PROS

  • Excellent cooling
  • Operates quietly even at peak loads
  • Ready-to-use
  • Durable build
  • Enhanced 4K performance

CONS

  • Small clock boost
  • Limited stock supply
  • Requires a three-slot space

What Recent Buyers Report

The ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 3080 Trinity OC can offer you immersive gaming with levels of realism never before possible for this demanding industry while operating quietly at max loads. However, it does require a three-slot space in your CPU chassis to work. 

Why It Stands Out to Us

Get greater 4K performance with ZOTAC’s RTX 3080. This Ampere video card is built with accelerating cores, enabling faster frame rates and lifelike renders of images and scenes.

The RTX 3080 is a great GPU that’s ready-to-use straight out of the box. This graphics card can render 4K gaming and creative software impeccably on various resolution monitors. 

This GPU has a durable build, robust frame, and powerful image processing. It’s no mystery why this card is so popular as it is a perfect addition to your home PC hub.

Who Will Use This Most

The ZOTAC RTX 3080 graphic cards provide high performance straight out of the box at a lower price point compared to other companies. It is for people who need a video card that can handle the demands of gaming, video playback, or creative work without the distracting noise.

Bottom Line

The ZOTAC GeForce RTX 3080 has an excellent cooling mechanism: copper pipes dissipate heat and the metal backplate covers while passively cools the system. On the other hand, this GPU has a relatively small additional clock boost compared to its competitors.

GIGABYTE GeForce RTX 3080 Gaming OC Rev 2.0

PROS

  • Outperforms RTX 2080 Ti
  • Greater frame rates
  • Better build for longer service life
  • Clock boost up to 1800 MHz
  • Budget-friendly

CONS

  • Bulky for small cases
  • Heats up at full loads
  • Needs a 750-watt power supply

What Recent Buyers Report

The GIGABYTE GeForce RTX 3080 Gaming OC Rev 2.0 graphics card provides gamers with the latest technology providing high frame rates like never before. While the video card offers immersive gameplay and video playback, it is reported to heat up as it reaches full loads. 

Why It Stands Out to Us

GIGABYTE's RTX 3080 is an exceptional graphics card that works better than its predecessors at the same MSRP, so it has become an attractive option to gamers with limited budgets.

This video card outperforms the former RTX 20 series’ high-end model, RTX 2080 Ti. The GIGABYTE RTX 3080 will have you playing games for days on end without skipping a beat.

The GPU truly delivers on its promise of an extended lifespan and 24/7 reliability. It was made with the most rigid materials to keep it running through any challenging titles and software.

Who Will Use This Most

The GIGABYTE RTX 3080 is engineered to keep up with the demands of modern games, not just now but for years to come. It is for users that need accessibility, processing power, and cutting-edge ray-tracing capabilities at a comparatively affordable price.

Bottom Line

The GIGABYTE GeForce RTX 3080 has a clock boost of 1800 MHz, which is a good overclock from the Founder’s Edition. However, if you are interested in this bulky graphics card, you must have enough space in your CPU rig.

EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 FTW3 Ultra Gaming

PROS

  • Incredible built-in interface
  • Comes with a 3-year warranty
  • Ample RGB
  • Silent cooling
  • Overclocks at 1800 MHz

CONS

  • Mid-range price
  • Unattractive red line design
  • Consumes a lot of power to run

What Recent Buyers Report

The EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 FTW3 Ultra Gaming graphics card has an entirely noiseless cooling system that enables games to load quickly without overheating. On the other hand, some recent buyers say that the red line design was a bit out of place and unattractive.

Why It Stands Out to Us

EVGA’s RTX 3080 has a built-in interface software for tweaking the video card’s features and syncing compatible devices, which can be accessed even in-game. 

This card offers outstanding performance at a mid-range price point. With a 3-year warranty, it’s more than worth the investment.

Modern gaming doesn't get any more beautiful than on the EVGA RTX 3080 graphics card. The GPU’s ample RGB lights give you plenty of options to customize your machine's look,

Who Will Use This Most

The EVGA RTX 3080 graphics card is for users who value high-quality workmanship as it comes with a 3-year warranty. It is perfect for gamers who love RGB lights in their rig to enjoy their virtual battles and video playbacks in style.   

Bottom Line

The EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 overclocks at 1800 MHz allowing for fast and incredible photorealistic renders. While it works at par with the other RTX 3080 brands, it consumes a lot of power to run. At a 750-watt power supply, it can be a terrible addition to your electricity bill.  

MSI Gaming GeForce RTX 3080 Suprim X

PROS

  • Great for 1440p and 4K gaming
  • High overclocking up to 1905 MHz
  • Attention-grabbing RGB
  • Rigid metal anti-bending strap
  • Double ball fan bearing for a longer lifespan

CONS

  • Expensive price range
  • Large and heavy
  • High power consumption

What Recent Buyers Report

With MSI Gaming GeForce RTX 3080 Suprim X graphics card, you can get a high overclocking of up to 1905 MHz. However, these impressive benefits also come at high power consumption. At a minimum power requirement of 850 MHz, this unit is indeed a power-hungry device.

Why It Stands Out to Us

MSI’s RTX 3080 is equipped with MSI’s Mystic Light RGB, which allows you to control colors and effects – so your system can coordinate perfectly with other components inside it.

The video card is shipped with a rigid metal anti-bending strap that serves as structural support for the quite massive device.

The GPU’s double ball fan bearing will keep your games and software running smoothly, cooling the system effectively as it also increases the unit’s lifespan. 

Who Will Use This Most

The MSI RTX 3080 is a graphics card for users who want to push their system's overclocking limits. Since buying a costly new video card can be considered an investment, it is for people who want a GPU that can last and work with them for a long time.

Bottom Line

If you have a rig that can handle it, the MSI GeForce RTX 3080 has the performance to spare. It is suitable for 1440p and 4K gaming, with the ability to play any game on ultra settings. On the other hand, this powerful video card comes at a hefty price.

ASUS TUF Gaming GeForce RTX 3080 OC

PROS

  • Faster frame rates
  • Cool and quiet
  • Extra HDMI port
  • Clock boosts at 1815 MHz
  • Adjustable RGB

CONS

  • Expensive price range
  • Limited stock availability
  • Fewer frame rates for some titles

What Recent Buyers Report

The ASUS TUF Gaming GeForce RTX 3080 OC provides incredible performance, and its clock boost can be configured up to 1815 MHz. While the unit offers an epic gaming experience, the video card has limited stock availability, and you might wait for quite some time to have one.

Why It Stands Out to Us

ASUS’ RTX 3080 doesn’t just give you more frames per second—it also upgrades your entire experience with just a few clicks of a mouse!

It’s fast, and it doesn’t overheat – but most importantly, the RTX 3080 is quiet. Take on your favorite titles and games without worrying about distracting anyone else at work or home.

The unit has intricate RGB lighting that's adjustable to your every need. This product is the perfect graphics card, whether you want to create a background mood or provide light for work. 

Who Will Use This Most

The ASUS RTX 3080 is for gamers who utilize computer monitors and VR video outputs simultaneously. As it operates and cools quietly, it is perfect for people who need a peaceful ambiance that allows for greater productivity and creativity for work and play.

Bottom Line

The ASUS GeForce RTX 3080 is a win if you use a VR headset and an LED TV screen while playing video games. It has an extra HDMI port to make this feature possible. However, it is reviewed to have fewer frame rates for some titles than the Founder’s Editon.

EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 XC3 Black Gaming

PROS

  • High-performance cooling
  • Customizable ARGB
  • Increase in frame rates
  • Best for 4K gaming and software
  • Product warranty for 3 years

CONS

  • Overclock not far from Founder’s Edition
  • Quite noisy at peak loads
  • Requires minimum 750 Watts or more

What Recent Buyers Report

The EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 XC3 Black Gaming offers high-quality workmanship with a good product warranty for three years. On the other hand, its overclocking is reported to have no significant difference from the Founder’s Edition. 

Why It Stands Out to Us

EVGA’s RTX 3080 works best for 4K gaming and software. This graphics card lets you experience immersive ray tracing with lifelike sceneries as you step into the virtual world.

The video card has a customizable ARGB suitable for your chromatic rig creating various moods and ambiance for your long hours of work or play.  

This massive GPU offers high-performance cooling that dissipates heat fast as it is produced by the hardworking ampere-based chipset architecture.

Who Will Use This Most

The EVGA RTX 3080 is for RGB enthusiasts who love the neon-colored lighting and effects in their gaming hub or workstation. It is for users who enjoy the modern titles designed for 4K resolution gaming and creative software.

Bottom Line

The EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 has shown a favorable increase in frame rates from its predecessors. While the device is a functional choice that improves productivity, it is quite noisy and may distract you as it operates at peak loads.

MSI GeForce RTX 3080 Gaming Z Trio

PROS

  • Clock boosts up to 1830 MHz
  • Includes RGB accents
  • Runs quietly
  • Heatsink metal backplate
  • Superb cooling system

CONS

  • Bulky build
  • Limited stock supply
  • Expensive price range

What Recent Buyers Report

The MSI GeForce RTX 3080 Gaming Z Trio has a backplate made entirely of metal serving as rigid support and heatsink. However, one of its caveats is the limited stock supply which is also applicable to every brand using the same standard unit in the market.

Why It Stands Out to Us

MSI’s RTX 3080 is commended by its recent users because it runs quietly as it continuously draws out the heat of the hardworking graphics card. This GPU has an attractive aesthetic design that includes well-placed RGB accents on the shroud and along its side.

With its superb cooling system, you can confidently power through all your favorite games and creative software without worry that it may crash or overheat.

Who Will Use This Most

The MSI RTX 3080 is for people willing to invest in a reliable and stylish graphics card. It is for users who work for long periods of time and require a stable cooling mechanism that runs quietly.

Bottom Line

The MSI GeForce RTX 3080 has a good clock boost of up to 1830 MHz for the various rendering demands of modern gaming and software. On the other hand, the product’s hefty price may be discouraging if you are planning to buy this on a limited budget.

 MSI GeForce RTX 3080 OC Ventus 3X

PROS

  • Graphene backplate
  • With anti-sagging support
  • Monitor and control even mid-game
  • Exceptional cooling
  • Comes with a bracket for weight support

CONS

  • No RGB
  • Mid-range price
  • Needs a larger space in CPU case

What Recent Buyers Report

The MSI GeForce RTX 3080 OC Ventus 3X has a massive size, which is why it comes with a sturdy bracket for weight support. While it is a fantastic product that can handle demanding tasks, its mid-range price might be a drawback for those buying on a limited budget.

Why It Stands Out to Us

MSI’s RTX 3080 is built with a lightweight yet durable graphene backplate. It supports the card rigidity and provides passive cooling to the system.

With anti-sagging support, this GPU is expected to receive less future bending damages and render demanding software for years to come.

The video card has an intuitive software interface that allows you to monitor and control the device’s features, even mid-game.

Who Will Use This Most

The MSI RTX 3080 is for users that focus on the video card’s overall functionality and are not into RGB lighting. Since this GPU is quite bulky, it is for people who have bigger CPU chassis space.

Bottom Line

The MSI GeForce RTX 3080 has exceptional cooling that effectively controls the unit’s temperature as the device continuously generates heat. However, your chassis must have enough room to handle its unconventional large size.

People Also Ask

Here are a few frequently asked questions for the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 graphics card. 

For more information and to help you decide if it is the right one for you, read on!

Is the RTX 3080 a good graphics card?

Yes. The RTX 3080 graphics card is a good purchase for both gamers and professionals alike with its state-of-the-art features.

The new GeForce RTX 3080 from NVIDIA promise to deliver a true high-end PC gaming experience by combining real-time ray tracing with the latest DLSS technology. 

The result? Games look better than ever before, and you can play them on TV screens and monitors without sacrificing any resolution or frame rate! Now players have yet another reason to justify their next gaming purchase.

Is the RTX 3080 worth it?

Yes. The RTX 3080 is an impressive graphics card that’s worth its price.

The Nvidia RTX 3080 is an impressive GPU that offers excellent 4K real-time ray tracing performance. It works at par with the flagship card RTX 3080 Ti, yet it is not as expensive. 

While both graphics cards are positively mentioned and reviewed online, we feel you could get better value with the cheaper option: The RTX 3080!

Can you buy RTX 3080 directly from Nvidia?

As of writing, NVIDIA no longer sells Founder’s Edition straight from their online store. 

Although it's been a difficult year for gamers, it looks like things will start to get better with NVIDIA selling their RTX 3080 Founders Edition graphics cards via Best Buy in the US. 

The card is only available in America at present, though no one has any information on or when Europe gets its own dealer yet!

Can an RTX 3080 run at 4K Resolution?

Yes. NVIDIA’s RTX 3080 runs best at 4K gaming and creative software.

RTX 3080’s predecessors have proven their impeccable capabilities for 1080p and 1440p resolutions. That’s why for this video card, the testing focus is on 4K. 

Utilizing the graphics card with a compatible monitor and HDR support, the RTX 3080 has successfully rendered nearly every synthetic 4K benchmark gaming software, and it was able to hit or exceed 60fps.

Is RTX 3080 overkill for 1080p?

Yes, the RTX 3080 may be overkill for the current mainstream 1080p displays. 

With a crisp, clear picture and smooth action sequences, the RTX 3080 is more than capable of rendering 1080p resolution games and professional software. 

It can easily process even higher pixel resolutions in finer detail. So if you have plans on playing in higher resolution or want better-looking graphics in the future, this quite hefty investment will pay off eventually.

How much power supply do I need to run RTX 3080?

The RTX 3080 is an energy-thirsty component requiring a PSU that can draw at least 750 watts of power. 

Its minimum power requirement is the same as the succeeding models RTX 3080 Ti and RTX 3090 but greater than its preceding model RTX 3070.

What CPU do you need for RTX 3080?

According to the latest reviews online, the top-performing CPU processors compatible with RTX 3080 graphics card are the following: Intel Core i7-10700K, AMD Ryzen 5 5600X, Intel Core i9-9900K, and AMD Ryzen 9 3900X.

Conclusion

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 is the best GPU for 1440p, 4k resolutions, and beyond. It provides a high-performance gaming experience with the latest and fastest DLSS rendering for 100 fps and above in many titles. 

With the current high demand yet low supply of these GPUs, the waiting to get one will be long but absolutely worth it! Upgrade now while you still can to not miss out on all its fantastic offers and features.



Austin

When the tech company I worked for restructured and I ended up jobless, I decided to put the wealth of knowledge and management skills to use somewhere new. I’d checked out a few buyer’s guides on the site in the past and reached out to the previous owner. A few months later, here we are. Now, I get to be behind the scenes, helping people find the best tech.