Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080: Early test results reveal single-digit improvements
Initial benchmark results of the GeForce RTX 5080 show only moderate performance increases of less than 10 percent compared to the RTX 4080.
The first benchmark results for Nvidia's upcoming GPU RTX 5080 show only modest performance gains of less than 10 percent compared to the RTX 4080, according to tests using professional 3D software Blender. Unlike synthetic benchmarks, Blender simulates real-world workloads that professionals encounter in 3D rendering.
Using the latest Blender version 4.3.0, which is known for its demanding requirements, here's how the cards stack up:
- RTX 5080: 9,063.77 points
- RTX 4080: 8,279.66 points (5080 is 9% faster)
- RTX 4080 Super: 8,375.68 points (5080 is 8% faster)
- RTX 4090: 10,995.42 points (21% faster than 5080)
- RTX 5090: 14,904.4 points (64% faster than 5080)
Additional testing has confirmed these results, with 13 different measurements showing a median score of 9,041 points for the RTX 5080.
Gaming performance is more promising
Leaked gaming benchmarks paint a slightly different picture.
3DMark Time Spy results:
- RTX 5080 standard: 32,701 points
- RTX 5080 overclocked: 34,896 points (6.7% gain from OC)
Compared to current cards:
- 18% faster than RTX 4080
- 17% faster than RTX 4080 Super
Interface-specific performance varies significantly:
- 15% improvement in Vulcan tests
- Only 2.3% gain in OpenCL tests
What this means for buyers
The RTX 5080 launches January 30, 2025, with a suggested price of $999. Performance gains vary widely depending on the application, with modern Vulcan-based software showing the most improvement. Overclockers might find custom board partner designs appealing, given the 6.7% potential performance boost.
While official reviews arrive on January 29, early indicators suggest limited availability at launch. Given the modest performance gains, waiting for wider availability might be the smart move.
The card's real-world performance will become clearer once reviewers can test it with actual games rather than synthetic benchmarks, which often show overly optimistic results.
What do you think about the moderate performance increase of Nvidia's latest GPUs? Join the conversation on Facebook, Bluesky or X or share your opinion in the comments below.
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