NVIDIA logo
Buy on Amazon logo
$369
New
VS
AMD logo
Buy on Amazon logo
$200
New

Aggregate performance score

We've compared GeForce GTX 980 and Radeon RX 5500 XT, covering specs and all relevant benchmarks.

GeForce GTX 980
10
4GB , 165W
Radeon RX 5500 XT +11%
11
8GB , 130W

Radeon RX 5500 XT outperforms GeForce GTX 980 by a moderate 11% based on our aggregate benchmark results.

Summary

We compared two graphics cards: the GeForce GTX 980 with 4GB VRAM (Maxwell architecture), against the Radeon RX 5500 XT with 8GB VRAM (RDNA architecture). The Radeon RX 5500 XT offers significantly better value for money with a 105% higher value score. The Radeon RX 5500 XT is more power-efficient, consuming 130W compared to 165W. 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

Reasons to consider the Radeon RX 5500 XT

105% better value score (24 versus 12)
11% higher 3DMark score (4,857 versus 4,367)
100% more VRAM: 8GB versus 4GB
21% lower power consumption (130W versus 165W)
$169 lower current price ($200 versus $369)

Value Score Comparison

Price-to-performance value analysis

GeForce GTX 980
12
Radeon RX 5500 XT
+105% better value
24

Benchmarks

Performance comparison across 1 common benchmarks

3DMark synthetic

GeForce GTX 980
4,367
Radeon RX 5500 XT
+11%
4,857

Technical Specifications

Side-by-side hardware comparison

Specification GeForce GTX 980 Radeon RX 5500 XT
Architecture Maxwell RDNA
VRAM Size 4 GB 8 GB
TDP 165W 130W
Current Price $369
New • Amazon
$200
New • Amazon

Conclusion

If value for money and price-to-performance ratio are your top priorities, then choose the Radeon RX 5500 XT. But if raw gaming performance and future-proofing are more important – go for the Radeon RX 5500 XT. If you plan to game at higher resolutions or use VRAM-intensive applications, the Radeon RX 5500 XT with 8GB VRAM provides more headroom. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the Radeon RX 5500 XT's lower 200 price point. Both graphics cards have their strengths, so choose based on your specific gaming needs, budget constraints, and performance requirements.