NVIDIA logo
Buy on Amazon logo
$379
New
VS
NVIDIA logo
Buy on Amazon logo
$359
New

Aggregate performance score

We've compared GeForce GTX 1080 and GeForce GTX 970, covering specs and all relevant benchmarks.

GeForce GTX 1080 +108%
17
8GB , 180W
GeForce GTX 970
8
4GB , 145W

GeForce GTX 1080 outperforms GeForce GTX 970 by a significant 108% based on our aggregate benchmark results.

Summary

We compared two graphics cards: the GeForce GTX 1080 with 8GB VRAM (Pascal architecture), against the GeForce GTX 970 with 4GB VRAM (Maxwell architecture). The GeForce GTX 1080 offers significantly better value for money with a 97% higher value score. The GeForce GTX 970 is more power-efficient, consuming 145W compared to 180W. On this page, you will find detailed benchmark comparisons, technical specifications, value score analysis, and key differences to help you choose the right graphics card for your needs and budget.

Key Differences

An overview of the main advantages of each graphics card

Reasons to consider the GeForce GTX 1080

97% better value score (20 versus 10)
108% higher 3DMark score (7,570 versus 3,648)
100% more VRAM: 8GB versus 4GB

Reasons to consider the GeForce GTX 970

19% lower power consumption (145W versus 180W)
$20 lower current price ($359 versus $379)

Value Score Comparison

Price-to-performance value analysis

GeForce GTX 1080
+97% better value
20
GeForce GTX 970
10

Benchmarks

Performance comparison across 1 common benchmarks

3DMark synthetic

GeForce GTX 1080
+108%
7,570
GeForce GTX 970
3,648

Technical Specifications

Side-by-side hardware comparison

Specification GeForce GTX 1080 GeForce GTX 970
Architecture Pascal Maxwell
VRAM Size 8 GB 4 GB
TDP 180W 145W
Current Price $379
New • Amazon
$359
New • Amazon

Conclusion

But if raw gaming performance and future-proofing are more important – go for the GeForce GTX 1080. If you plan to game at higher resolutions or use VRAM-intensive applications, the GeForce GTX 1080 with 8GB VRAM provides more headroom. Both graphics cards have their strengths, so choose based on your specific gaming needs, budget constraints, and performance requirements.