NVIDIA logo
Buy on Amazon logo
$369
New
VS
NVIDIA logo
Buy on Newegg logo
$2469
New

Aggregate performance score

We've compared GeForce GTX 980 and GeForce RTX 5090, covering specs and all relevant benchmarks.

GeForce GTX 980
10
4GB , 165W
GeForce RTX 5090 +903%
100
32GB , 575W

GeForce RTX 5090 outperforms GeForce GTX 980 by a significant 903% based on our aggregate benchmark results.

Summary

We compared two graphics cards: the GeForce GTX 980 with 4GB VRAM (Maxwell architecture), against the GeForce RTX 5090 with 32GB VRAM. The GeForce RTX 5090 offers significantly better value for money with a 50% higher value score. The GeForce GTX 980 is more power-efficient, consuming 165W compared to 575W. 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 980

71% lower power consumption (165W versus 575W)
$2100 lower current price ($369 versus $2469)

Reasons to consider the GeForce RTX 5090

50% better value score (18 versus 12)
903% higher 3DMark score (43,822 versus 4,367)
700% more VRAM: 32GB versus 4GB

Value Score Comparison

Price-to-performance value analysis

GeForce GTX 980
12
GeForce RTX 5090
+50% better value
18

Benchmarks

Performance comparison across 1 common benchmarks

3DMark synthetic

GeForce GTX 980
4,367
GeForce RTX 5090
+903%
43,822

Technical Specifications

Side-by-side hardware comparison

Specification GeForce GTX 980 GeForce RTX 5090
Architecture Maxwell N/A
VRAM Size 4 GB 32 GB
TDP 165W 575W
Current Price $369
New • Amazon
$2469
New • Newegg

Conclusion

But if raw gaming performance and future-proofing are more important – go for the GeForce RTX 5090. For energy efficiency and lower power consumption, the GeForce GTX 980 is the better choice. If you plan to game at higher resolutions or use VRAM-intensive applications, the GeForce RTX 5090 with 32GB VRAM provides more headroom. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the GeForce GTX 980's lower 369 price point. Both graphics cards have their strengths, so choose based on your specific gaming needs, budget constraints, and performance requirements.