When it comes to choosing the right graphics processing unit (GPU) for gaming, there are numerous options available in the market. Two of the most popular choices among gamers are the Nvidia GeForce GTX 980 Ti and the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070. Both GPUs are high-performance cards that promise to deliver exceptional gaming experiences. But which one is better? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the specifications, features, and performance of both GPUs to help you make an informed decision.
Specifications and Features
Before we dive into the performance comparison, let’s take a look at the specifications and features of both GPUs.
Nvidia GeForce GTX 980 Ti
The Nvidia GeForce GTX 980 Ti is a high-end graphics card based on the Maxwell architecture. It was released in 2015 and was considered one of the fastest consumer-grade GPUs available at that time. Here are some of its key specifications:
- CUDA Cores: 2816
- Base Clock: 1000 MHz
- Boost Clock: 1076 MHz
- Memory: 6 GB GDDR5
- Memory Bandwidth: 384 GB/s
- Bus Width: 384-bit
- TDP: 250W
The GTX 980 Ti also features some advanced technologies, including:
- DX12 OSD Support: This allows for more efficient use of graphics processing power and faster frame rates.
- Dynamic Super Resolution (DSR): This technology allows for higher-quality rendering at lower resolutions, making games look sharper and more detailed.
- MFAA (Multi-Frame Sampled Anti-Aliasing): This is a more efficient alternative to traditional MSAA (Multisample Anti-Aliasing), providing smoother frame rates and better image quality.
Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070
The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070 is a mid-to-high-end graphics card based on the Pascal architecture. It was released in 2016 and is considered one of the most popular GPUs among gamers. Here are some of its key specifications:
- CUDA Cores: 1920
- Base Clock: 1506 MHz
- Boost Clock: 1683 MHz
- Memory: 8 GB GDDR5
- Memory Bandwidth: 256 GB/s
- Bus Width: 256-bit
- TDP: 150W
The GTX 1070 also features some advanced technologies, including:
- Simultaneous Multi-Projection (SMP): This allows for more efficient rendering of complex scenes, resulting in faster frame rates and better image quality.
- Async Shaders: This technology allows for more efficient use of graphics processing power, providing smoother frame rates and better performance.
- Pascal’s GPU Architecture: This provides a more efficient and optimized design, resulting in better performance and power efficiency.
Performance Comparison
Now that we’ve looked at the specifications and features of both GPUs, let’s compare their performance in various games and benchmarks.
3DMark Fire Strike
In the 3DMark Fire Strike benchmark, the GTX 980 Ti scores an average of 14,361 points, while the GTX 1070 scores an average of 13,439 points. This is a difference of around 7%, with the GTX 980 Ti performing slightly better.
Gaming Performance
In terms of gaming performance, both GPUs deliver exceptional results. Here are some benchmarks from popular games:
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
- GTX 980 Ti: 60 FPS (1080p), 45 FPS (1440p), 30 FPS (4K)
- GTX 1070: 55 FPS (1080p), 40 FPS (1440p), 25 FPS (4K)
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
- GTX 980 Ti: 60 FPS (1080p), 45 FPS (1440p), 30 FPS (4K)
- GTX 1070: 55 FPS (1080p), 40 FPS (1440p), 25 FPS (4K)
Fortnite
- GTX 980 Ti: 120 FPS (1080p), 80 FPS (1440p), 60 FPS (4K)
- GTX 1070: 110 FPS (1080p), 70 FPS (1440p), 50 FPS (4K)
As we can see, the GTX 980 Ti performs slightly better than the GTX 1070 in most games, especially at higher resolutions. However, the difference is not drastic, and both GPUs are capable of delivering smooth frame rates at high settings.
Power Consumption and Noise
Power consumption and noise levels are important considerations when choosing a GPU. Here’s how the GTX 980 Ti and GTX 1070 compare:
- Power Consumption: The GTX 980 Ti has a TDP of 250W, while the GTX 1070 has a TDP of 150W. This means that the GTX 1070 is more power-efficient and can help reduce your electricity bill.
- Noise Levels: The GTX 980 Ti has a higher noise level than the GTX 1070, especially during intense gaming sessions. This is due to its higher power consumption and older design.
Price and Availability
Price and availability are also important factors to consider when choosing a GPU. Here’s how the GTX 980 Ti and GTX 1070 compare:
- Price: The GTX 980 Ti is generally more expensive than the GTX 1070, especially for new models. However, prices for used or refurbished GTX 980 Ti models may be closer to those of the GTX 1070.
- Availability: The GTX 1070 is more widely available than the GTX 980 Ti, especially from popular online retailers. This is due to its more recent release and higher production volumes.
Conclusion
So, is the 980 Ti better than the 1070? The answer depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for raw performance and don’t mind a higher power consumption and noise level, the GTX 980 Ti may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more power-efficient and affordable option with similar performance, the GTX 1070 is a great alternative.
Here are some key takeaways to consider:
- The GTX 980 Ti has slightly better performance in most games, especially at higher resolutions.
- The GTX 1070 is more power-efficient and has lower noise levels.
- The GTX 1070 is generally more affordable and widely available than the GTX 980 Ti.
Ultimately, the choice between the GTX 980 Ti and GTX 1070 depends on your specific needs and priorities. Both GPUs are high-performance options that can deliver exceptional gaming experiences, so you can’t go wrong either way.
What is the main difference between NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980 Ti and GTX 1070?
The main difference between NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980 Ti and GTX 1070 is the architecture and manufacturing process used. The GTX 980 Ti is based on the Maxwell architecture, fabricated on a 28nm process, whereas the GTX 1070 is based on the Pascal architecture, fabricated on a 16nm process. This newer architecture and process allow the GTX 1070 to provide better performance and power efficiency.
Additionally, the GTX 1070 also features newer technologies such as simultaneous multi-procressing, increased memory bandwidth, and improved DirectX 12 support, which further enhance its performance. In contrast, the GTX 980 Ti, although still a powerful card, is based on older technology and does not have these advancements.
Which GPU has better performance in 4K gaming?
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 generally has better performance in 4K gaming compared to the GTX 980 Ti. This is because the GTX 1070 has more CUDA cores, higher clock speeds, and a more efficient architecture, which enable it to handle the demanding requirements of 4K gaming. In most modern games, the GTX 1070 is able to maintain higher frame rates and lower latency at 4K resolutions compared to the GTX 980 Ti.
That being said, the difference in performance between the two cards may not always be drastic, and the GTX 980 Ti can still provide smooth gaming performance at 4K resolutions, especially with certain games that are not as demanding. However, for the most part, the GTX 1070 is the better choice for 4K gaming.
Is the GTX 1070 worth the upgrade from the GTX 980 Ti?
Whether the GTX 1070 is worth the upgrade from the GTX 980 Ti depends on various factors, including your current system configuration, gaming needs, and budget. If you already have a GTX 980 Ti and are satisfied with its performance, there may not be a compelling reason to upgrade to the GTX 1070, especially if you don’t plan to game at 4K resolutions or use other GPU-intensive applications.
However, if you’re planning to build a new system or upgrade your existing one to take advantage of newer technologies and features, the GTX 1070 may be worth considering. Additionally, if you want to future-proof your system and be prepared for more demanding games and applications, the GTX 1070’s increased power and efficiency make it a more attractive option.
How much power does the GTX 1070 consume compared to the GTX 980 Ti?
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 generally consumes less power than the GTX 980 Ti, thanks to its more efficient Pascal architecture and 16nm manufacturing process. The GTX 1070 has a TDP of around 150W, whereas the GTX 980 Ti has a TDP of around 250W. This means that the GTX 1070 is more power-efficient and can run on a smaller power supply, which can be beneficial for those building smaller systems or trying to reduce their power consumption.
Furthermore, the GTX 1070 also has better heat dissipation and noise reduction compared to the GTX 980 Ti, making it a more attractive option for those who value a quieter and cooler gaming experience. Overall, the GTX 1070’s improved power efficiency and reduced heat and noise make it a more desirable choice for many users.
What are the differences in memory and bandwidth between the GTX 980 Ti and GTX 1070?
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980 Ti and GTX 1070 have different memory configurations and bandwidth. The GTX 980 Ti has 6GB of GDDR5 memory with a memory bandwidth of 384 GB/s, whereas the GTX 1070 has 8GB of GDDR5 memory with a memory bandwidth of 256 GB/s. The GTX 1070’s higher memory capacity and improved memory architecture allow for better performance in memory-intensive games and applications.
Additionally, the GTX 1070 also features newer memory technologies such as GDDR5X, which provides higher bandwidth and lower power consumption compared to traditional GDDR5. Overall, the GTX 1070’s improved memory configuration and bandwidth make it better suited for demanding games and applications that rely heavily on memory.
Can the GTX 980 Ti still handle modern games at high settings?
Yes, the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980 Ti can still handle modern games at high settings, although it may not be able to maintain the same level of performance as the GTX 1070. The GTX 980 Ti is a powerful card that was considered one of the top-performing GPUs in its time, and it still has enough power to handle most modern games at high settings, including 1440p and 4K resolutions.
However, the GTX 980 Ti may struggle with the most demanding games and applications, especially those that utilize newer technologies such as DirectX 12, Vulkan, or Nvidia’s proprietary technologies like DLSS and ray tracing. In these cases, the GTX 1070’s newer architecture and features may provide better performance and smoother gameplay.
Is the GTX 980 Ti still a good value compared to the GTX 1070?
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980 Ti can still be a good value compared to the GTX 1070, depending on the price and availability of both cards. Although the GTX 1070 generally offers better performance and power efficiency, the GTX 980 Ti can be had for a lower price, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.
Additionally, the GTX 980 Ti is still a powerful card that can provide smooth gaming performance at high settings, making it a good choice for those who don’t need the absolute latest and greatest technology. However, if you’re looking for the best performance and features, the GTX 1070 is generally the better option, especially if you can find it at a reasonable price.