When it comes to building or upgrading a gaming PC, one of the most critical components to consider is the graphics processing unit (GPU). A good GPU can make all the difference in delivering a seamless gaming experience, while a subpar one can leave you stuck in the mud. In recent years, two GPUs have been at the forefront of many gamers’ minds: the Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 and the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080. Both are popular options, but which one is worse? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the specs, performance, and features of each GPU to help you make an informed decision.
Specifications: A Tale of Two GPUs
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of performance and features, let’s take a look at the specifications of each GPU.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060
The Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 is a mid-range to high-end GPU from Nvidia’s 20 series, released in 2019. Here are its key specs:
- CUDA Cores: 1920
- Base Clock: 1365 MHz
- Boost Clock: 1680 MHz
- Memory: 6 GB GDDR6
- Memory Bandwidth: 336 GB/s
- TDP: 120W
Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080
The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 is a high-end GPU from Nvidia’s 10 series, released in 2016. Here are its key specs:
- CUDA Cores: 2560
- Base Clock: 1607 MHz
- Boost Clock: 1734 MHz
- Memory: 8 GB GDDR5X
- Memory Bandwidth: 320 GB/s
- TDP: 180W
At first glance, the GTX 1080 seems like the more powerful GPU, with more CUDA cores and higher clock speeds. However, the RTX 2060 has some tricks up its sleeve, which we’ll explore later.
Performance: The Benchmark Battleground
Benchmarking is a great way to compare the performance of different GPUs. Let’s take a look at some benchmarks to see how the RTX 2060 and GTX 1080 stack up.
1080p Gaming
At 1080p, the GTX 1080 is still a beast, with frame rates averaging around 140-160 FPS in most modern games. The RTX 2060, on the other hand, averages around 100-120 FPS. This is to be expected, given the GTX 1080’s higher clock speeds and CUDA core count.
1440p Gaming
At 1440p, the gap between the two GPUs narrows. The GTX 1080 averages around 80-100 FPS, while the RTX 2060 averages around 60-80 FPS. The RTX 2060’s lower power consumption and more efficient architecture start to pay dividends here.
4K Gaming
At 4K, the GTX 1080 starts to struggle, averaging around 30-40 FPS. The RTX 2060, on the other hand, averages around 40-50 FPS, thanks to its more efficient architecture and lower power consumption.
Ray Tracing and AI-Enhanced Features
This is where the RTX 2060 really shines. With its Tensor cores and dedicated ray tracing hardware, the RTX 2060 can handle ray tracing and AI-enhanced features like DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and AI-enhanced graphics. The GTX 1080, on the other hand, lacks these features, making it less future-proof.
Power Consumption and Cooling
Power consumption and cooling are critical factors to consider when choosing a GPU. Here’s how the RTX 2060 and GTX 1080 compare:
Power Consumption
The RTX 2060 has a TDP of 120W, while the GTX 1080 has a TDP of 180W. This makes the RTX 2060 a more power-efficient option, especially for those with lower-wattage power supplies.
Cooling
Both GPUs come with reference coolers from Nvidia, but the RTX 2060’s cooler is more efficient and quieter. The GTX 1080’s cooler can get quite loud under heavy load, while the RTX 2060’s cooler remains relatively quiet.
Price and Value
Price is a critical factor for many gamers. Here’s how the RTX 2060 and GTX 1080 compare:
MSRP
The RTX 2060 has an MSRP of around $349, while the GTX 1080 has an MSRP of around $499. However, it’s worth noting that the GTX 1080 is an older GPU, and prices may vary depending on the region and retailer.
Value
The RTX 2060 offers more value for the price, with its more efficient architecture, lower power consumption, and future-proof features like ray tracing and AI-enhanced graphics. The GTX 1080, on the other hand, is a more powerful GPU, but its higher power consumption and lack of future-proof features make it less appealing to some gamers.
Conclusion: Which GPU is Worse?
So, which GPU is worse: the RTX 2060 or the GTX 1080? The answer depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for raw power and don’t mind higher power consumption, the GTX 1080 may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more power-efficient GPU with future-proof features like ray tracing and AI-enhanced graphics, the RTX 2060 is the better option.
In conclusion, the GTX 1080 is only worse than the RTX 2060 if you prioritize power efficiency, future-proof features, and quieter operation.
However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with similar performance, the GTX 1080 may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and preferences.
| GPU | CUDA Cores | Base Clock | Boost Clock | Memory | Memory Bandwidth | TDP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 | 1920 | 1365 MHz | 1680 MHz | 6 GB GDDR6 | 336 GB/s | 120W |
| Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 | 2560 | 1607 MHz | 1734 MHz | 8 GB GDDR5X | 320 GB/s | 180W |
In the end, the choice between the RTX 2060 and GTX 1080 depends on your specific needs and preferences. We hope this article has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Happy gaming!
What is the main difference between a 2060 and 1080?
The main difference between a 2060 and 1080 lies in their performance and power consumption. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 is a more modern GPU, released in 2019, with a higher performance and more advanced features compared to the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080, which was released in 2016. The RTX 2060 has a higher CUDA core count, higher clock speeds, and more memory bandwidth, making it a more powerful GPU overall.
In addition, the RTX 2060 has features such as ray tracing, AI-enhanced graphics, and variable rate shading, which are not available on the GTX 1080. These features enable more realistic graphics and improved performance in games that support them. However, the GTX 1080 still has its own strengths, such as a lower power consumption and a more affordable price point, making it a viable option for those on a budget.
Which GPU is better for 144Hz gaming?
The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 is generally better for 144Hz gaming due to its higher frame rates and lower latency. With its higher clock speeds and more memory bandwidth, the RTX 2060 can handle high refresh rates more easily, providing a smoother gaming experience. Additionally, the RTX 2060’s ability to handle variable rate shading and other advanced graphics features can help reduce the strain on the GPU, allowing for even higher frame rates.
However, the GTX 1080 can still handle 144Hz gaming, especially at lower resolutions such as 1080p. But as the resolution increases, the GTX 1080 may struggle to maintain high frame rates, making the RTX 2060 a better option for those who want to game at high refresh rates and high resolutions.
Is the 2060 worth the extra cost over the 1080?
The answer to this question depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a GPU that can handle high refresh rates, ray tracing, and other advanced graphics features, then the RTX 2060 may be worth the extra cost. The RTX 2060 is a more modern GPU with more advanced features and higher performance, making it a good choice for those who want the latest and greatest technology.
However, if you’re on a budget and are looking for a more affordable option, the GTX 1080 may be a better choice. The GTX 1080 is still a powerful GPU that can handle most modern games at high settings, and it’s significantly cheaper than the RTX 2060. Additionally, the GTX 1080’s lower power consumption can help reduce your electricity bill and make it a more environmentally friendly option.
Can the 1080 handle 4K gaming?
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 can handle 4K gaming, but it may struggle with very high frame rates and detailed graphics settings. The GTX 1080 has a relatively low CUDA core count and memory bandwidth compared to more modern GPUs, which can limit its performance at very high resolutions. However, if you’re willing to compromise on graphics settings and frame rates, the GTX 1080 can still provide a decent gaming experience at 4K resolutions.
That being said, the GTX 1080 is not the best option for 4K gaming, and you may want to consider a more modern GPU like the RTX 2060 or even higher-end options like the RTX 2070 or 2080. These GPUs have much higher CUDA core counts, memory bandwidth, and more advanced features that make them better suited for high-resolution gaming.
What about power consumption and heat?
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 has a lower power consumption and heat output compared to the RTX 2060. The GTX 1080 has a TDP of around 180W, while the RTX 2060 has a TDP of around 190W. This means that the GTX 1080 will consume less power and produce less heat than the RTX 2060, making it a more energy-efficient option.
However, it’s worth noting that the RTX 2060’s higher power consumption is largely due to its more advanced features and higher performance. If you’re willing to sacrifice some performance for lower power consumption and heat output, the GTX 1080 may be a better option. But if you need the highest performance possible, the RTX 2060’s slightly higher power consumption may be a worthwhile trade-off.
Is the 2060 better for content creation?
The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 is generally better for content creation due to its higher performance and more advanced features. The RTX 2060’s higher CUDA core count, higher clock speeds, and more memory bandwidth make it better suited for tasks such as video editing, 3D modeling, and other graphics-intensive applications.
Additionally, the RTX 2060’s advanced features such as ray tracing, AI-enhanced graphics, and variable rate shading can help accelerate certain tasks and provide more realistic results. However, the GTX 1080 can still be used for content creation, especially for less demanding tasks such as photo editing or web development.
Can I overclock the 1080 to match the 2060’s performance?
It’s possible to overclock the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 to improve its performance, but it’s unlikely to match the performance of the RTX 2060. Overclocking can increase the GTX 1080’s clock speeds and memory bandwidth, but it can also increase heat output and power consumption.
While overclocking can help narrow the performance gap between the GTX 1080 and RTX 2060, it’s unlikely to completely bridge the gap. The RTX 2060’s more advanced features and higher CUDA core count give it a significant performance advantage that can’t be fully replicated through overclocking alone.