NVIDIA logo
Buy on Amazon logo
$369
New
VS
AMD logo
Buy on Amazon logo
$210
New

Aggregate performance score

We've compared GeForce GTX 980 and Radeon R9 290X, covering specs and all relevant benchmarks.

GeForce GTX 980 +9%
10
4GB , 165W
Radeon R9 290X
9
4GB , 290W

GeForce GTX 980 outperforms Radeon R9 290X by a moderate 9% based on our aggregate benchmark results.

Summary

We compared two graphics cards: the GeForce GTX 980 with 4GB VRAM (Maxwell architecture), against the Radeon R9 290X with 4GB VRAM. The Radeon R9 290X offers significantly better value for money with a 61% higher value score. The GeForce GTX 980 is more power-efficient, consuming 165W compared to 290W. 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

9% higher 3DMark score (4,367 versus 3,991)
43% lower power consumption (165W versus 290W)

Reasons to consider the Radeon R9 290X

61% better value score (19 versus 12)
$159 lower current price ($210 versus $369)

Value Score Comparison

Price-to-performance value analysis

GeForce GTX 980
12
Radeon R9 290X
+61% better value
19

Benchmarks

Performance comparison across 1 common benchmarks

3DMark synthetic

GeForce GTX 980
+9%
4,367
Radeon R9 290X
3,991

Technical Specifications

Side-by-side hardware comparison

Specification GeForce GTX 980 Radeon R9 290X
Architecture Maxwell N/A
VRAM Size 4 GB 4 GB
TDP 165W 290W
Current Price $369
New • Amazon
$210
New • Amazon

Conclusion

For energy efficiency and lower power consumption, the GeForce GTX 980 is the better choice. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the Radeon R9 290X's lower 210 price point. Both graphics cards have their strengths, so choose based on your specific gaming needs, budget constraints, and performance requirements.