Gamers have multiple factors to consider when comparing the Nvidia RTX 3070 Ti and 3080 graphics cards. In our thorough assessment of Nvidia RTX 3070 Ti vs RTX 3080, we concluded that it stands as the superior graphics card for the majority of PC gamers.
With its remarkably powerful GPU, it delivers outstanding performance. Additionally, despite its higher cost, it remains more budget-friendly compared to the RTX 3090. This is especially true when taking into account the suggested retail price. Conversely, our evaluation of the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 Ti left us with a somewhat less enthusiastic impression.
This is predominantly due to its elevated MSRP. It appears disproportionate considering the marginal performance boost it offers over the RTX 3070. When comparing the RTX 3070 Ti and RTX 3080 cards, the former occupies a middle ground in terms of pricing. Therefore, the key consideration is whether the performance gain of the RTX 3070 Ti justifies its purchase.
However, it is important to note that this assessment relies on the assumption of market stability. The assumption also includes ample stock of both available and subsequent price reductions for both models. In the current market scenario, we are searching for the best Nvidia GeForce graphics cards available at reasonable prices. Most don’t want to pay exorbitant markups imposed by eBay and StockX resellers.
If you have the opportunity to acquire an RTX 3070 Ti or 3080, we understand the importance of ensuring you receive the best overall value. Considering this, let’s delve into a comparison of the RTX 3070 Ti and 3080. We will analyze their price and performance, to determine which graphics card is the optimal choice based on your budget.
Nvidia RTX 3070 Ti vs 3080: Price
In terms of pricing, the RTX 3070 Ti is positioned between the RTX 3070 and the RTX 3080. Note that the Founders Edition starts at $599 / £529 / AU$979. Generally, aftermarket cards from brands like MSI, EVGA, Asus, and others tend to be more expensive. On the other hand, the RTX 3080 has a starting price of $699 / £649 (approximately AU$1,050). And the RTX 3070 begins at $499 / £469 / AU$809 for the Founders Edition.
When considering the availability and pricing of these cards, it becomes evident that the RTX 3070 Ti offers better affordability. Even in the current inflated graphics card market, it is expected to be cheaper than a comparable RTX 3080. This is true regardless of the seller. However, it is crucial to evaluate the value proposition and the returns on your investment.
In this case, it is important to acknowledge that the RTX 3080 provides superior value. This is true despite its higher price tag of approximately $100 / £60 / AU$200.
Nvidia RTX 3070 Ti vs RTX 3080: Specifications
Both the RTX 3070 Ti and RTX 3080 utilize the Ampere chip architecture. However, they differ in their die configuration. The RTX 3070 Ti employs a scaled-down GA104 die, while the RTX 3080 utilizes a larger GA102 die. This distinction results in the RTX 3080 surpassing the RTX 3070 Ti in terms of CUDA core count, VRAM, and memory capacity. As a consequence, the RTX 3080 offers slightly superior all-around performance, enabling smoother framerates at higher graphical settings.
The RTX 3070 Ti boasts a higher clock speed overall. However, it falls short in competing with the RTX 3080’s more robust core count. Additionally, the RTX 3080 consumes more power as a trade-off. Despite being slightly older, the RTX 3080 still outperforms the RTX 3070 Ti on paper. Unless budget constraints prevent it, opting for the RTX 3080 over the RTX 3070 Ti would ensure the best performance available.
RTX 3070 Ti vs RTX 3080: Performance
As mentioned earlier, the RTX 3080 exhibits superior performance compared to the RTX 3070 Ti across various aspects. In the Time Spy Extreme benchmark of 3DMark, the RTX 3070 Ti achieves an average graphics score of 7406. And the RTX 3080 surpasses it with an average graphics score of 8902, indicating a performance difference of approximately 20%. Furthermore, in 3DMark’s Port Royal benchmark, which focuses on ray tracing capabilities, the RTX 3080 outperforms the RTX 3070 Ti with an average score of 11577.
The RTX 3070 Ti achieves a benchmark score of 8859. This indicates approximately 30% improved ray-traced performance compared to the lower-end card. In terms of overall performance, there is roughly a 25% difference between the two cards. Consequently, at the current moment, the RTX 3080 appears to be a more favorable purchase given its marginal price increase of only $50.
Conclusion: Nvidia RTX 3070 Ti vs RTX 3080
The RTX 3070 presents a more appealing price point compared to the RTX 3080, and the marginal difference in performance between the two cards doesn’t greatly affect the value proposition of the RTX 3070. However, the scenario alters when considering the RTX 3070 Ti. Despite its slight performance boost, the increased price of the RTX 3070 Ti does not warrant the additional cost of the RTX 3070.
If you are considering spending an additional $100 / £60 / $170 for an RTX 3070 Ti instead of the RTX 3070, it would be more beneficial to double that amount and opt for a graphics card that offers a substantial performance boost justifying the price increase. This upgrade will make a noticeable difference in your gaming experience, providing the leap from excellent 1440p gaming to exceptional 4K gaming.
We only advise against opting for the RTX 3080 if you have a particularly tight budget and your maximum limit for a new graphics card is $599 / £529 / AU$979. In such a scenario, it would be more reasonable to choose the RTX 3070 instead. The money saved can then be utilized for a fun night out with friends or to upgrade an older gaming peripheral. Ultimately, considering the price, the RTX 3070 Ti doesn’t offer compelling justification.
FAQ
What is the performance difference between the RTX 3070 Ti and the RTX 3080?
According to 3DMark benchmarks, the RTX 3070 Ti demonstrates roughly 25% inferior performance compared to the RTX 3080. It is noteworthy that the RTX 3080 consistently offers better specifications than the RTX 3070 Ti. As a result, it is advisable not to expect a substantial performance advantage from the RTX 3070 Ti when compared to the RTX 3080.
What is the speed advantage of the 3070 Ti over the RTX 3080?
Although the RTX 3070 Ti boasts higher clock speeds than the RTX 3080, it falls short of surpassing Nvidia’s flagship GPU in overall performance. Positioned as a middle ground between the base RTX 3070 and the RTX 3080, the RTX 3070 Ti does not offer superior raw power compared to the RTX 3080. Consequently, despite its initial clock speed advantage, it does not deliver higher overall speed.
