Overview
- The FTW3 Ultra, on the other hand, adopts a more compact dual-fan cooler with a smaller heatsink.
- The ROG Strix 3080 comes with a factory-overclocked BIOS, while the FTW3 Ultra provides a more conservative approach with a lower factory overclock.
- Both cards have ample overclocking headroom, but the ROG Strix 3080 has a slight edge due to its more aggressive factory overclock and higher-quality components.
The realm of high-end graphics cards has witnessed the arrival of two titans: the ASUS ROG Strix 3080 and the EVGA FTW3 Ultra. Both boasting the latest NVIDIA Ampere architecture, these cards promise unparalleled gaming experiences. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricate details of each card, exploring their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Performance
Synthetic Benchmarks
In synthetic benchmarks like 3DMark Time Spy, the ROG Strix 3080 and FTW3 Ultra perform neck and neck. Both cards deliver impressive scores, with the ROG Strix 3080 slightly edging out the FTW3 Ultra in some tests.
Real-World Gaming
In actual gaming scenarios, the performance gap between the two cards becomes more apparent. The ROG Strix 3080 consistently delivers higher frame rates in demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Control. Its superior cooling system allows it to maintain higher boost clocks, resulting in smoother gameplay.
Cooling
Design
The ROG Strix 3080 features a massive triple-fan cooler with a large heatsink. This design effectively dissipates heat, keeping the card running cool under load. The FTW3 Ultra, on the other hand, adopts a more compact dual-fan cooler with a smaller heatsink.
Temperatures
Under sustained gaming loads, the ROG Strix 3080 maintains significantly lower temperatures than the FTW3 Ultra. This difference is particularly noticeable in high-ambient environments or when overclocking.
Noise
The larger fans and heatsink of the ROG Strix 3080 contribute to its quieter operation. Even under heavy load, the card remains relatively quiet, providing a more immersive gaming experience. The FTW3 Ultra, while not excessively loud, is slightly noisier than its competitor due to its smaller cooler.
Features
RGB Lighting
Both cards feature customizable RGB lighting that can be synchronized with other components using software. The ROG Strix 3080 offers more extensive lighting options, including an illuminated backplate and a customizable OLED display.
Connectivity
The ROG Strix 3080 and FTW3 Ultra provide a comprehensive array of connectivity options, including HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4a, and USB-C. However, the ROG Strix 3080 features an additional HDMI 2.1 port for more flexible multi-monitor setups.
Overclocking
Both cards offer ample overclocking headroom for enthusiasts. The ROG Strix 3080 comes with a factory-overclocked BIOS, while the FTW3 Ultra provides a more conservative approach with a lower factory overclock.
Price and Availability
The ROG Strix 3080 is typically priced slightly higher than the FTW3 Ultra. Both cards are currently in high demand and may be difficult to find in stock at MSRP.
The Verdict: ROG Strix 3080 or EVGA FTW3 Ultra?
The ASUS ROG Strix 3080 and EVGA FTW3 Ultra are both exceptional graphics cards that offer unparalleled gaming performance. However, the ROG Strix 3080 emerges as the superior choice for those who prioritize performance, cooling, and noise levels. Its more robust cooling system, higher factory overclock, and quieter operation make it the ideal choice for demanding gaming enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which card offers better overclocking potential?
Both cards have ample overclocking headroom, but the ROG Strix 3080 has a slight edge due to its more aggressive factory overclock and higher-quality components.
Which card is more likely to be in stock?
Due to the high demand for both cards, availability can fluctuate. However, the FTW3 Ultra is generally more widely available than the ROG Strix 3080.
Which card has the better customer support?
Both ASUS and EVGA are known for their excellent customer support. However, EVGA offers a slightly longer warranty period for its graphics cards, providing added peace of mind.