Any GPU launch is a special occasion for gamers and PC enthusiasts. Nvidia’s announcement of the Ampere-based RTX 30-series was still something out of the ordinary, as the generational performance leap turned out to be on a level not seen for at least a decade.
Out of the three initial Ampere GPUs, Nvidia positions the GeForce RTX 3080 as this generation’s 4K gaming flagship. The GeForce RTX 3090 is the ‘Titan’ equivalent for professionals and prosumers, while the RTX 3070 comes with somewhat more modest specs.
Compared to the previous generation, the relative performance of Nvidia’s high-end Ampere lineup is nevertheless quite spectacular in all three cases.
When looking at price versus performance, it’s not surprising that the GeForce RTX 3080 is the most popular of the first three Ampere GPUs. It is significantly faster than the RTX 3070 – and even the much more expensive RTX 2080 Ti – while also offering far better value than the RTX 3090.
Unsurprisingly, all of Nvidia’s partner manufacturers had several aftermarket RTX 3080 cards on offer from day one – and most of them sold out almost instantly. On the plus side, this afforded prospective buyers time to decide by reading some of the many RTX 3080 reviews, which were ready to go right after the embargo was lifted.
The Best RTX 3080 Cards
The purpose of this page is to help you find the best RTX 3080 card for your build by taking a closer look at all available models at the time of writing. All of them are listed below, but to get to the point we will start by listing some of the top cards based on professional review ratings, as well as value.
[wpsm_numbox num=”1″ style=”3″]
Best Overall: Asus ROG Strix RTX 3080 OC
[/wpsm_numbox]
Asus’ ROG (Republic of Gamers) Strix line of graphics cards is incredibly popular – and usually for good reason. This is an all-new Strix design for the RTX 30 series that offers better thermals without making much noise. Prospective buyers need to make sure that they have enough space, however. The Strix RTX 3080 takes up 2.9 slots and measures 12.53 inches (31.85 cm) in length.
One aspect of this card that stands out (in a less literal sense) is that the Asus ROG Strix RTX 3080 OC comes with the highest factory overclock of all 3080 cards. Using the Asus GPU Tweak software, you will be able to apply the advertised 1935 MHz maximum boost clock. Like several other premium variants of the RTX 3080, this card also uses three 8-pin power connectors, which let the GPU increase its power draw.
Another nice detail is a small BIOS switch on the card that allows you to switch between performance mode and quiet mode. The performance mode does not give you a boost in FPS by itself but provides better cooling. Additionally, there are two PWM fan headers on the card that allow you to connect two case fans directly to the graphics card. This can come in handy if you want the fans to ramp up or down according to the GPU temperature.
As usual, you also get some RGB lighting to go with your Strix card, which is relatively discreet in this case. For outputs, you get the three DisplayPorts but you also get two HDMI ports – one more than the reference design model.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”Editors Liked:”]
- Comparatively cool and quiet
- Great OC potential
- Three-year warranty
[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”Editors didn’t like:”]
- Very large
- High power consumption
[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]
- Reviews: TweakTown (Score: 100%), Overclock3D.net, Notebookcheck.net
[wpsm_numbox num=”2″ style=”3″]
Best Value: Asus RTX 3080 TUF Gaming
[/wpsm_numbox]
Yes, it’s another Asus card. One reason is that Asus’ RTX 3080 cards are among the most extensively reviewed so far (including by ourselves in this case). Another reason is the potential problem with some cards using a below-spec combination of POSCAP/MLCC capacitors, which seems to cause stability issues at high clock speeds. Asus uses high-end capacitors and thus avoids this potential problem.
Perhaps more importantly, the Asus RTX 3080 TUF Gaming keeps the GPU cool while staying reasonably quiet, and not least – comes in at a lower price point than the premium varieties. As you would expect, the cooler is not as sophisticated or RGB-decorated as the Strix version but it’s a major improvement over previous-gen TUF coolers. The card is built like a rock, with an aluminum shroud, a sturdy backplate, and new axial fans that provide additional airflow according to Asus. One of the fans spins in the opposite direction, which supposedly improves cooling efficiency. After having tested this card, it’s hard to disagree. RGB enthusiasts will not come up entirely empty-handed, as the top of the shroud sports an illuminated strip and logo. Another bonus is the dual BIOS setup and a physical switch that lets you choose between more aggressive cooling or silent operation.
The Asus RTX 3080 TUF is smaller than the ROG Strix version but not really compact by any means, being 2.7 slots wide and 11.8 in (30 cm) in length. Asus also offers the RTX 3080 TUF Gaming in an OC version with a slight factory overclock, but if you want the best possible value we recommend the non-OC variety.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”Editors Liked:”]
- All-metal shroud and backplate
- Runs cool and quiet
- Comparatively affordable
[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”Editors didn’t like:”]
- Not much RGB
- Less OC headroom than premium 3x 8-pin models
[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]
[wpsm_numbox num=”3″ style=”3″]
If Money is No Object: Gigabyte Aorus RTX 3080 Xtreme 10G
[/wpsm_numbox]
The Gigabyte Aorus RTX 3080 Xtreme is most definitely extreme in a variety of ways bordering on the insane. But if you want the most lavish, no-expenses-spared GeForce RTX 3080 – and don’t mind paying the equivalent of a decent mid-range GPU above MSRP – look no further. This gets you a card with one of the largest coolers in GPU history that even includes a gratuitous LCD on top. This display can be used to display the current temperature, VRAM usage, or an animated GIF if that’s more to your liking.
Similar to some previous Aorus cards, Gigabyte has stacked two large fans on top of an alternately-spinning central fan. The fans service a vapor chamber and heat pipes connected to a large copper plate, which also covers the VRAM. All of this results in highly efficient cooling as well as practically silent operation. Of course, this also results in a very thick card that will take up 3.5 (effectively four) slots and it’s still slightly longer than the Asus Strix card.
Like other premium RTX 3080 models, the Aorus Xtreme comes with three 8-pin power connectors. This, in combination with the powerful cooler, means that the Aorus RTX 3080 Xtreme should be one of the best RTX 3080 candidates in terms of overclocking potential. It is also equipped with two additional HDMI outputs compared to the reference design.
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”Editors Liked:”]
- Extremely powerful cooler
- Silent under load
- Lots of RGB and LCD panel
[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”Editors didn’t like:”]
- ‘Xtreme’ price tag even for an RTX 3080
- It’s huge
[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]
[wpsm_numbox num=”4″ style=”3″]
High-End Alternative: EVGA RTX 3080 FTW3 Ultra
[/wpsm_numbox]
EVGA was the only manufacturer that acknowledged the capacitor issue at high clocks and revised its cards accordingly (others, including MSI, appear to have corrected the issue without an announcement). The GeForce RTX 3080 FTW3 Ultra is the full-featured flagship model from EVGA but still less expensive than some of the alternatives. It is somewhat more compact than other premium cards, but still a sizeable card that takes up 2.75 slots and measures 11.81 inches (30 cm) in length.
The 1800 MHz max. boost factory overclock may not be as high as in some of the competitors, but the large cooler and three 8-pin power connectors should ensure excellent manual OC potential. There are three 90mm fans that spin in the same direction but the fan in the middle is offset by 10mm, which EVGA claims increases airflow by 16%. Selective cut-outs on the PCB and backplate is another design choice that improves airflow.
Already at first glance, it’s obvious that EVGA has dedicated a significant part of the shroud to RGB lighting along and there is also an RGB-lit EVGA logo on the backplate, as well as on the end of the card (for some reason). As for the outputs, EVGA went with the reference arrangement meaning three DisplayPorts, and a single HDMI port output.
- Reviews: Techpowerup
[wpsm_numbox num=”5″ style=”3″]
Value Alternative: Zotac RTX 3080 Trinity
[/wpsm_numbox]
The triple-fan, 2.5-slot RTX 3080 Trinity is the entry-level model in Zotac’s 3080 range. What this card lacks in girth it makes up in length, however, as it’s almost as long as the Gigabyte Aorus and Asus Strix cards. Each of the three fans has 11 blades and Zotac claims that this increases the airflow compared to the previous generation. Interestingly, you can customize the speeds of each fan using Zotac’s software.
Some RGB is also included, in the form of a Zotac logo that you can customize and sync with other RGB components of your build. The dual 8-pin power connectors and default output ports put the RTX 3080 Trinity in line with the reference model and the same goes for the 1710 MHz maximum boost clock (there is also an OC model with a comparatively insignificant factory overclock to 1725 MHz max. boost out of the box). The Zotac RTX 3080 Trinity is nevertheless attractive thanks to its more than sufficient cooling and moderate price tag.
[wpsm_numbox num=”6″ style=”3″]
If You Can Find It: The GeForce RTX 3080 Founder’s Edition
[/wpsm_numbox]
At the end of 2020, you would be lucky to find any variety of the RTX 3080 at a reasonable cost. Nvidia’s Founder’s Edition cards are typically hard to locate even in normal circumstances, which is a shame since these reference models have been really good in recent years.
The RTX 3080 Founder’s Edition features a novel dual-fan design with one fan at the backside of the card. This means that, instead of pushing the air across the heatsink and (mostly) out of the chassis, the second fan pulls air through the heatsink to be exhausted via the rear chassis fan.
As all of the many reviews of the Founder’s Edition can confirm, this solution really works quite well. Temperatures under load usually stay below 80°C (176°F), which isn’t much higher than most triple-fan cards. With the RTX 30-series, Nvidia also introduces a new 12-pin power connector that takes up less space on the PCB than standard 8-pin connectors.
All RTX GeForce RTX 3080 Cards
This aspires to be a complete guide to all RTX 3080 video cards on the market. As such, we are listing and comparing the available models from every third-party manufacturer in alphabetical order, highlighting some of the more interesting designs. You will also find links to reviews from around the web, which are recommended reading if you are considering a specific model.
ASUS
Asus offers two different varieties of the RTX 3080, each of which is available with a factory overclock combined with the usual price premium.
The pricier ROG (Republic of Gamers) Strix model comes with an all-new cooling design compared to previous high-end Strix cards. It’s a very large, triple-fan solution that will take up three slots in your case – and it’s a good idea to give it some room to spare if you want the fans to perform as intended. Both of the Strix RTX 3080 cards require three 8-pin PCIe power connectors, and at 1935 MHz, the OC model (O10G) comes with the highest factory overclock out of all cards from the entire launch lineup.
As an alternative to the expensive Strix models from Asus, there is also the RTX 3080 TUF models, which are identical apart from a factory OC
Asus’ TUF line of graphics cards has received less-than-stellar reviews in their earlier incarnations, but this triple-fan design marks a departure from the somewhat small and noisy fans on other TUF models. It seems to borrow some parts from older Strix cards, meaning that the cards’ cooling capacity and noise levels are more than adequate this time around. The cooler is still smaller than the massive Strix version and comes with “only” two 8-pin power connectors, but it does come with a BIOS switch for swapping between Performance or Quiet mode.
Like many other manufacturers, Asus has introduced perpendicularly mounted fans, with the center fan spinning in the opposite direction to reduce turbulence.
| RTX 3080 Model | Max. Boost / Mem. Clock | Fans | Slots/ Length | PCIe Power | Outputs | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Asus TUF RTX 3080 Gaming (TUF-RTX3080-10G-GAMING) | 1740 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 11.8 in (30 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Asus TUF RTX 3080 Gaming OC (TUF-RTX3080-O10G-GAMING) | 1815 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 11.8 in (30 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 Asus ROG Strix RTX 3080 Gaming (ROG-STRIX-RTX3080-10G-GAMING) | 1740 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.9-slot / 12.53 in (31.85 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Asus ROG Strix RTX 3080 Gaming OC (ROG-STRIX-RTX3080-O10G-GAMING) | 1935 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.9-slot / 12.53 in (31.85 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 ASUS RTX 3080 EKWB (RTX3080-10G-EK) | 1740 MHz / 19 Gbps | 0 | 1-slot / 11.2 in (21.6 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Reviews:
EVGA
Like Asus, EVGA’s RTX 3080 lineup consists of two triple-fan designs that come in a few additional variations with different maximum boost clock speeds. The RGB-equipped FTW3 is a large 2.75-slot card available with either a minor factory overclock (FTW3 Gaming; 1755 MHz max. boost clock) or a somewhat larger OC (FTW Ultra Gaming; 1800 MHz max. boost clock).
Both of the FTW3 models should be well prepared for additional overclocking thanks to having three 8-pin power connectors instead of the usual two.
If you don’t like the price premiums that EVGA charges for the FTW3 cards – or insufficient room in your case to accommodate one – the more compact 2.2-slot XC3 design might be an interesting alternative. Again, the three XC3 versions primarily differ at the max. boost clock level, but note that the XC3 Black lacks the stabilizing metal backplate found on the XC3 Gaming and XC3 Ultra Gaming.
| RTX 3080 Model | Max. Boost / Mem. Clock | Fans | Slots/ Length | PCIe Power | Outputs | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 EVGA RTX 3080 FTW3 ULTRA GAMING (10G-P5-3897-KR) | 1800 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.75-slot / 11.81 in (30 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
EVGA RTX 3080 FTW3 GAMING (10G-P5-3895-KR) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.75-slot / 11.81 in (30 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 EVGA RTX 3080 XC3 ULTRA GAMING (10G-P5-3885-KR) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.2-slot / 11.23 in (28.5 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
EVGA RTX 3080 XC3 GAMING (10G-P5-3883-KR) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.2-slot / 11.23 in (28.5 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
EVGA RTX 3080 XC3 BLACK GAMING (10G-P5-3881-KR) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.2-slot / 11.23 in (28.5 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 FTW3 Ultra Hybrid (10G-P5-3898-KR) | 1800 MHz / 19 Gbps | 1 | 2-slot / 11.4 in (28.9 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 FTW3 Hydro Copper (10G-P5-3899-KR) | 1800 MHz / 19 Gbps | 0 | 1-slot / 11.4 in (28.9 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
| EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 XC3 Ultra Hybrid (10G-P5-3888-KR) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 1 | 2-slot / 10.4 in (26.3 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
| EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 XC3 Hydro Copper (10G-P5-3889-KR) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 0 | 1-slot / 10.4 in (26.3 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Reviews:
Gainward
Just like EVGA, Gainward is an Nvidia-exclusive board partner (owned by Palit) with a set of different cooling solutions that often reappear on cards with different GPUs. As for the RTX 3080 (and also 3090), Gainward offers two choices of triple-fan, 2.7-slot models, each in two differently-clocked SKUs. The higher-end RTX 3080 Phantom and Phantom GS come with three 8-pin power connectors and the highest boost clocks out of the box (1755 MHz and 1860 MHz, respectively).
If you prefer a more conventional and less costly approach, Gainward’s alternative models are the Phoenix and Phoenix GS. Both use two 8-pin connectors and come with slightly lower maximum boost clocks (1710 MHz or 1740 MHz). Both the Phantom and Phoenix coolers are 2.7 slots wide, but the Phantom is slightly higher and longer.
| RTX 3080 Model | Max. Boost / Mem. Clock | Fans | Slots/ Length | PCIe Power | Outputs | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Gainward RTX 3080 Phantom GS (471056224-2140) | 1860 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 12 in (30.4 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gainward RTX 3080 Phantom (471056224-2119) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 12 in (30.4 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 Gainward RTX 3080 Phoenix GS (471056224-2010) | 1740 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 11.6 in (29.4 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gainward RTX 3080 Phoenix (471056224-1952) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 11.6 in (29.4 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Reviews:
Galax/KFA2
Galax and KFA2 are two brands from the same manufacturer and the cards are identical in everything but name and branding. Like most other manufacturers, Galax offers the RTX 3080 with two different coolers, but there are no multiple variations of the two unless you count different color schemes.
The smaller SG model is arguably the most interesting, as it comes with an additional 80mm clip-on fan that you attach to the backplate of the card, effectively making it a quad-fan card. Of course, this optional add-on also adds to the bulk of the card and might not fit in combination with a large CPU cooler.
Galax’s higher-end EX Gamer model offers a higher boost clock and is also physically larger, filling up three slots in the chassis. Unlike many of the competing models, however, the RTX 3080 EX Gamer uses the standard dual 8-pin power connectors instead of triple connectors. Both the SG and EX Gamer models are discretely RGB-lit in the fan areas and have the same “1-Click OC” feature (via software).
| RTX 3080 Model | Max. Boost / Mem. Clock | Fans | Slots/ Length | PCIe Power | Outputs | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 GALAX RTX 3080 SG (38NWM3MD99NN) | 1725 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3+1 | 2.7-slot / 12.5 in (31.7 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 Galax RTX 3080 EX Gamer (38NWM3MD1JAA) | 1770 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.9-slot / 12.4 in (31.6 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gigabyte
Gigabyte’s launch lineup of RTX 3080 cards is a bit more extensive than that of most competitors. As expected, the flagship Aorus models come with the largest coolers and most sizeable factory overclocks. Not unlike its high-end predecessors, the Aorus RTX 3080 cooler is one of the beefiest on the market, occupying 3.5 (effectively four) slots. The Extreme model comes with a 1905 MHz boost clock and uses three 8-pin power connectors, while the Master variety has an 1845 MHz boost clock and just the usual two power connectors.
The Gigabyte RTX 3080 Gaming OC is a slight redesign of previous triple-fan Gaming models, which offers a boost clock of up to 1800 MHz out of the box. This also applies to the Vision – a card with identical specs but a different design, aimed at content creators rather than gamers.
For those who prefer to not pay too much of a premium for plus-sized coolers and considerable factory overclocks, Gigabyte is also introducing the Eagle lineup. One eagle ships with the reference clock speeds and the other with a slight OC.
| RTX 3080 Model | Max. Boost / Mem. Clock | Fans | Slots/ Length | PCIe Power | Outputs | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Gigabyte Aorus RTX 3080 Extreme (GV-N3080AORUS X-10GD) | 1905 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 3.5-slot / 12.6 in (31.9 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 3x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gigabyte Aorus RTX 3080 Master (GV-N3080AORUS M-10GD) | 1845 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 3.5-slot / 12.6 in (31.9 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 3x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 Gigabyte RTX 3080 Vision OC (GV-N3080VISION OC-10GD) | 1800 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 12.6 in (32 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 Gigabyte RTX 3080 Gaming OC (GV-N3080GAMING OC-10GD) | 1800 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.75-slot / 12.6 in (32 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 Gigabyte RTX 3080 Eagle (GV-N3080EAGLE-10GD) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.8-slot / 12.6 in (32 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gigabyte RTX 3080 Eagle OC (GV-N3080EAGLE OC-10GD) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.8-slot / 12.6 in (32 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 Gigabyte Aorus RTX 3080 Xtreme Waterforce (GV-N3080AORUSX W-10GD) | 1845 MHz / 19 Gbps | AIO | 2-slot / 9.9 in (25.2 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 3x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 Gigabyte Aorus RTX 3080 Xtreme Waterforce WB (GV-N3080AORUSX W-10GD) | 1845 MHz / 19 Gbps | 0 | 2-slot / 9.9 in (25.2 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 3x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Inno3D
Inno3D has not bothered with separate ‘OC’ versions of the cards in its RTX 3080 lineup, which is rather straightforward but still manages to stand out in a few ways. The smallest card is an unusual dual-fan design, making it a unique option save for a few hybrid or water-cooled RTX 3080 cards that also use less than three fans. However, don’t expect the Twin X2 to fit in your small form factor build, as its dimensions are only slightly smaller than most triple-fan cards.
The RTX 3080 iChill X3 is the least strange model from Inno3D. This is a triple-fan card with two 8-pin power connectors, a maximum boost clock of 1770 MHz, and about the same form factor as many of its competitors.
What really stands out in this lineup is the oddly-shaped quad-fan RTX 3080 iChill X4. Its small fourth fan is placed perpendicular to the other three and is allegedly aiming to cool the card’s MOSFETs. Unlike the clip-on variety from Galax, Inno3D’s fourth fan is built into the shroud. Despite its extra fan, the card does not have a third 8-pin power connector so its overclocking capabilities may be limited compared to the competitors in the expensive segment.
| RTX 3080 Model | Max. Boost / Mem. Clock | Fans | Slots/ Length | PCIe Power | Outputs | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Inno3D RTX 3080 iChill X3 (C30803-106XX-1810VA37) | 1770 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | N/A / 11.8 in (30 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 Inno3D RTX 3080 iChill X4 (C30804-106XX-1810VA36) | 1770 MHz / 19 Gbps | 4 | N/A / 11.8 in (30 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 Inno3D RTX 3080 Twin X2 OC (N30802-106XX-1810VA34) | 1725 MHz / 19 Gbps | 2 | N/A / 10.8 in (27.4 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 Inno3D iChill RTX 3080 Frostbite (C3080-106XX-1810FB) | 1770 MHz / 19 Gbps | 0 | 2-slot / 8.9 in (22.6 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP |
MSI
The MSI launch lineup consists of two different cooling designs for the RTX 3080, both of which are triple-fan varieties with MSI’s established Gaming (X) and Ventus brandings. As usual, the Gaming and Gaming X models are the top models and come with triple 8-pin power connectors as well as higher factory overclocks. For the RTX 30 series, the design of the Gaming cards has been updated somewhat, with rearranged RGB accents and new Torx 4.0 fans. The latter allegedly provide a more focused airflow by linking the outer rings of the fans.
MSI also introduces a triple-fan Ventus version of the RTX 3080. The Ventus name is usually indicative of a more compact cooler design, at least in the mid-range GPU segment, but that is hardly the case here. Although the Ventus cards are a bit shorter than their Gaming counterparts, they still come with three full-size fans and are also slightly thicker. What you are mainly missing out on compared to the Gaming cards are the aforementioned Torx 4.0 fans, the additional power connector, and the higher boost clocks. The non-OC Ventus runs at stock speed and the OC model offers a small overclock of less than 2% from 1710 MHz to 1740 MHz.
| RTX 3080 Model | Max. Boost / Mem. Clock | Fans | Slots/ Length | PCIe Power | Outputs | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 MSI RTX 3080 Gaming X Trio | 1815 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.8-slot / 12.7 in (32.3 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
MSI RTX 3080 Gaming Trio | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.8-slot / 12.7 in (32.3 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 MSI RTX 3080 Ventus 3X OC | 1740 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.85-slot / 12 in (30.5 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
MSI RTX 3080 Ventus 3X | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.85-slot / 12 in (30.5 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Palit
Following the pattern of many other manufacturers (some of which are Palit-owned brands including Gainward and Galax), the first RTX 3080 cards from Palit come in two different shapes. Both use triple-fan cooling designs and both ship in an OC and a non-OC variety. GameRock (OC) is the larger and more expensive variety with three 8-pin power connectors.
The RTX 3080 GameRock OC offers a sizeable factory overclock to 1860 MHz, which puts it among the leaders in the overclocking race, while the non-OC GameRock ships with a more modest 1755 MHz maximum boost clock. Palit has dubbed this card “The Dazzling Angel”, referring to the fact that no less than 90% of the shroud is covered in RGB lighting.
You will still receive a smaller dose of RGB when opting for one of the Palit RTX 3080 GamingPro models. However, this cooler is a bit smaller and lacks the extra 8-pin power connector. Unsurprisingly, the max. boost clocks are also lower. The GamingPro OC will reach 1740 MHz and the non-OC variety comes uses the stock 1710 MHz.
| RTX 3080 Model | Max. Boost / Mem. Clock | Fans | Slots/ Length | PCIe Power | Outputs | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Palit RTX 3080 GameRock OC (NED3080H19IA-1020G) | 1860 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot/ 12 in (30.4 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Palit RTX 3080 GameRock (NED3080U19IA-1020G) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot/ 12 in (30.4 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 Palit RTX 3080 GamingPro OC (NED3080S19IA-132AA) | 1740 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot/ 11.6 in (29.4 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Palit RTX 3080 GamingPro (NED3090019SB-132BA) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot/ 11.6 in (29.4 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
PNY
Instead of segmenting its cards into OC and non-OC models, PNY has kept it simple by sticking with two different alternatives running at the same (stock) clock speeds. Both of the cards are equipped with triple-fan coolers and there is no option for attaching a third 8-pin power connector on either of them.
Nonetheless, the XLR8 Uprising RTX 3080 stands out (literally) with a larger cooler that will occupy up a full three slots in your chassis. The XLR8 Revel RTX 3080 is a more compact variety that uses the standard 2.7-slot form factor and is somewhat smaller in every other dimension as well.
We have no insights into the New Jersey-based manufacturer’s thinking behind the choice of coolers and specs, but there should be no performance advantage out of the box for those opting for the larger cooler. While the cooler layouts and RGB arrangements are different, the specifications are identical.
| RTX 3080 Model | Max. Boost / Mem. Clock | Fans | Slots/ Length | PCIe Power | Outputs | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 PNY XLR8 RTX 3080 Uprising Epic-X (VCG308010TFXMPB) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 3-slot/ 12.5 in (31.7 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 PNY XLR8 RTX 3080 Revel Epic-X (VCG308010TFXPPB) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot/ 11.6 in (29.4 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Zotac
Trinity and Trinity OC are the more affordable alternatives in Zotac’s GeForce RTX 3080 lineup and use the same triple-fan cooler. ‘Affordable’ is of course a relative term in the RTX 3080 space and the Trinity cooler is quite sophisticated, with RGB accents on both the shroud and backplate. The large aluminum heatsink is complemented with seven copper heatsinks. According to Zotac, the new 11-blade fan design improves airflow by up to 10% compared to the previous generation. Using the Zotac FireStorm software, users can adjust independently to find the right balance between noise and efficient cooling.
The Zotac GeForce RTX 3080 AMP Holo is practically identical in size to the Trinity cards and uses the same two 8-pin power connectors. What mainly differs is a higher factory OC and “Ethereal Aurora” RGB effects on top of the cooler and across the backplate. The RTX 3080 AMP Extreme Holo, on the other hand, is Zotac’s flagship in the lineup. This card is physically larger and equipped with three 8-pin connectors. At 1800 MHz, it also offers the highest boost clock.
| RTX 3080 Model | Max. Boost / Mem. Clock | Fans | Slots/ Length | PCIe Power | Outputs | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 ZOTAC RTX 3080 AMP Extreme Holo (ZT-A30800B-10P) | 1800 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.5-slot/ 12.9 in (32.8 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 ZOTAC RTX 3080 AMP Holo (ZT-A30800F-10P) | 1770 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.5-slot/ 12.5 in (31.8 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 ZOTAC RTX 3080 Trinity OC (ZT-A30800J-10P) | 1725 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.5-slot/ 12.5 in (31.8 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
ZOTAC RTX 3080 Trinity (ZT-A30800D-10P) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.5-slot/ 12.5 in (31.8 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Summary and Buyer’s Guide
The high-end GPU launches in late 2020 (from both Nvidia and AMD) have been massively affected by shortages. Supply issues are common when next-gen hardware is rolled out, but the situation in 2020 is clearly out of the ordinary in more ways than one. Although the RTX 3080 and other new GPUs are currently in short supply, this hasn’t prevented Nvidia’s (or AMD’s) board partners from launching complete graphics card lineups, and many of them have been extensively tested. Once the shelves are restocked and prices return to normal, there is no need to be an uninformed buyer.
A few general recommendations for purchasing a new GPU, and some specific tips for finding the best RTX 3080 for your build:
- Factory OC: Paying a premium for a minor factory overclock in an otherwise identical graphics card is rarely (if ever) a good investment. There are many such options in the RTX 3080 segment, such as the Asus TUF/TUF OC and Zotac Trinity/Trinity OC. Improved cooling designs and higher power limits may be worth it if the premium is not too significant.
- Power supply (PSU): The recommended minimum PSU for the GeForce RTX 3080 is 750W, which is not unreasonable considering the 320W TDP (thermal design power). Asus has put together a more granular table and recommends 750W for Ryzen 5/7 or Core i5/i7 systems, 850W for Ryzen 9, Core i9, or Threadripper/Intel HEDT pairings.
- CPU pairing: 1080p gaming is typically CPU-limited and here you will see large gains when pairing an RTX 3080 with e.g. a Core i9-10700K, or Ryzen 9 5900X. 1440p is also affected, but to a lesser extend, whereas 4K is GPU-limited and suffers the least when using a mainstream CPU such as a Ryzen 5 or Core i5 (often the difference is in the single-digit FPS percentages).
Full List of RTX 3080 Cards
For a better overview, this is an (almost) complete list of Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 cards at the time of writing.
| RTX 3080 Model | Max. Boost / Mem. Clock | Fans | Slots/ Length | PCIe Power | Outputs | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Asus TUF RTX 3080 Gaming (TUF-RTX3080-10G-GAMING) | 1740 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 11.8 in (30 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Asus TUF RTX 3080 Gaming OC (TUF-RTX3080-O10G-GAMING) | 1815 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 11.8 in (30 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Asus ROG Strix RTX 3080 Gaming (ROG-STRIX-RTX3080-10G-GAMING) | 1740 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.9-slot / 12.53 in (31.85 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Asus ROG Strix RTX 3080 Gaming OC (ROG-STRIX-RTX3080-O10G-GAMING) | 1935 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.9-slot / 12.53 in (31.85 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
ASUS RTX 3080 EKWB (RTX3080-10G-EK) | 1740 MHz / 19 Gbps | 0 | 1-slot / 11.2 in (21.6 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 FTW3 ULTRA GAMING (10G-P5-3897-KR) | 1800 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.75-slot / 11.81 in (30 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 FTW3 GAMING (10G-P5-3895-KR) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.75-slot / 11.81 in (30 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 XC3 ULTRA GAMING (10G-P5-3885-KR) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.2-slot / 11.23 in (28.5 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 XC3 GAMING (10G-P5-3883-KR) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.2-slot / 11.23 in (28.5 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 XC3 BLACK GAMING (10G-P5-3881-KR) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.2-slot / 11.23 in (28.5 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 FTW3 Ultra Hybrid (10G-P5-3898-KR) | 1800 MHz / 19 Gbps | 1 | 2-slot / 11.4 in (28.9 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
 EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 FTW3 Hydro Copper (10G-P5-3899-KR) | 1800 MHz / 19 Gbps | 0 | 1-slot / 11.4 in (28.9 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 XC3 Ultra Hybrid (10G-P5-3888-KR) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 1 | 2-slot / 10.4 in (26.3 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
| EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 XC3 Hydro Copper (10G-P5-3889-KR) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 0 | 1-slot / 10.4 in (26.3 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gainward RTX 3080 Phantom GS (471056224-2140) | 1860 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 12 in (30.4 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gainward RTX 3080 Phantom (471056224-2119) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 12 in (30.4 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gainward RTX 3080 Phoenix GS (471056224-2010) | 1740 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 11.6 in (29.4 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gainward RTX 3080 Phoenix (471056224-1952) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 11.6 in (29.4 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
GALAX RTX 3080 SG (38NWM3MD99NN) | 1725 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3+1 | 2.7-slot / 12.5 in (31.7 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Galax RTX 3080 EX Gamer (38NWM3MD1JAA) | 1770 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.9-slot / 12.4 in (31.6 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gigabyte Aorus RTX 3080 Extreme (GV-N3080AORUS X-10GD) | 1905 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 3.5-slot / 12.6 in (31.9 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 3x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gigabyte Aorus RTX 3080 Master (GV-N3080AORUS M-10GD) | 1845 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 3.5-slot / 12.6 in (31.9 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 3x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gigabyte RTX 3080 Vision OC (GV-N3080VISION OC-10GD) | 1800 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot / 12.6 in (32 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gigabyte RTX 3080 Gaming OC (GV-N3080GAMING OC-10GD) | 1800 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.75-slot / 12.6 in (32 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gigabyte RTX 3080 Eagle (GV-N3080EAGLE-10GD) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.8-slot / 12.6 in (32 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gigabyte RTX 3080 Eagle OC (GV-N3080EAGLE OC-10GD) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.8-slot / 12.6 in (32 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 2x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gigabyte Aorus RTX 3080 Xtreme Waterforce (GV-N3080AORUSX W-10GD) | 1845 MHz / 19 Gbps | AIO | 2-slot / 9.9 in (25.2 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 3x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Gigabyte Aorus RTX 3080 Xtreme Waterforce WB (GV-N3080AORUSX WB-10GD) | 1845 MHz / 19 Gbps | 0 | 2-slot / 9.9 in (25.2 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 3x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Inno3D RTX 3080 iChill X3 (C30803-106XX-1810VA37) | 1770 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | N/A / 11.8 in (30 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Inno3D RTX 3080 iChill X4 (C30804-106XX-1810VA36) | 1770 MHz / 19 Gbps | 4 | N/A / 11.8 in (30 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Inno3D RTX 3080 Twin X2 OC (N30802-106XX-1810VA34) | 1725 MHz / 19 Gbps | 2 | N/A / 10.8 in (27.4 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Inno3D iChill RTX 3080 Frostbite (C3080-106XX-1810FB) | 1770 MHz / 19 Gbps | 0 | 2-slot / 8.9 in (22.6 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
MSI RTX 3080 Gaming X Trio | 1815 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.8-slot / 12.7 in (32.3 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
MSI RTX 3080 Gaming Trio | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.8-slot / 12.7 in (32.3 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
MSI RTX 3080 Ventus 3X OC | 1740 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.85-slot / 12 in (30.5 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
MSI RTX 3080 Ventus 3X | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.85-slot / 12 in (30.5 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Palit RTX 3080 GameRock OC (NED3080H19IA-1020G) | 1860 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot/ 12 in (30.4 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Palit RTX 3080 GameRock (NED3080U19IA-1020G) | 1755 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot/ 12 in (30.4 cm) | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Palit RTX 3080 GamingPro OC (NED3080S19IA-132AA) | 1740 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot/ 11.6 in (29.4 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Palit RTX 3080 GamingPro (NED3090019SB-132BA) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot/ 11.6 in (29.4 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
PNY XLR8 RTX 3080 Uprising Epic-X (VCG308010TFXMPB) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 3-slot/ 12.5 in (31.7 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
PNY XLR8 RTX 3080 Revel Epic-X (VCG308010TFXPPB) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.7-slot/ 11.6 in (29.4 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
ZOTAC RTX 3080 AMP Extreme Holo (ZT-A30800B-10P) | 1800 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.5-slot/ N/A | 3x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
ZOTAC RTX 3080 AMP Holo (ZT-A30800F-10P) | 1770 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.5-slot/ 12.5 in (31.8 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
ZOTAC RTX 3080 Trinity OC (ZT-A30800J-10P) | 1725 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.5-slot/ 12.5 in (31.8 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
ZOTAC RTX 3080 Trinity (ZT-A30800D-10P) | 1710 MHz / 19 Gbps | 3 | 2.5-slot/ 12.5 in (31.8 cm) | 2x 8-pin | 1x HDMI 3x DP | N/A |
Hi Jesper, kudos for this RTX 3080 article. It’s quite the homework you accomplished.
Thanks Simon! It would have been due for an update, but it’s not very inspiring with all new launches being been mostly theoretical lately…