Quick Answer
The GeForce RTX 4070 is a newer generation graphics card that generally offers significantly better performance and efficiency than the older RTX 2080 SUPER. Key improvements include support for newer technologies like DLSS 3 and a more modern architecture, which results in higher frame rates, especially in ray-traced games, and lower power consumption.
GeForce RTX 4070 vs GeForce RTX 2080 SUPER: Full Comparison
Introduction
Comparing graphics cards from different generations can help users understand the pace of technological advancement and make informed decisions about upgrades. This analysis examines the GeForce RTX 4070, based on NVIDIA’s Ada Lovelace architecture, against the previous-generation flagship, the RTX 2080 SUPER, which uses the Turing architecture. We will explore their specifications, performance in gaming and creative tasks, feature sets, and efficiency to highlight the key differences and similarities between these two cards.
Architecture and Specifications
The core difference between these GPUs lies in their underlying architecture and manufacturing process.
- RTX 4070: Built on the Ada Lovelace architecture using a 5nm process. It typically features 5888 CUDA cores, 12GB of GDDR6X memory on a 192-bit bus, and 46 RT (Ray Tracing) cores.
- RTX 2080 SUPER: Based on the older Turing architecture on a 12nm process. It generally comes with 3072 CUDA cores, 8GB of GDDR6 memory on a 256-bit bus, and 48 RT cores.
While the RTX 2080 SUPER has a wider memory bus, the RTX 4070’s newer memory technology and architectural improvements often result in higher effective bandwidth and performance.
Gaming and Ray Tracing Performance
Performance is a primary consideration, with notable generational leaps in certain areas.
- Traditional Rasterization: In games without ray tracing, the RTX 4070 typically delivers a substantial performance uplift, often in the range of 30-50% higher frame rates at similar resolutions compared to the RTX 2080 SUPER.
- Ray Tracing Performance: The gap widens significantly with ray tracing enabled. The RTX 4070’s 3rd-gen RT cores are more efficient, allowing for much more playable frame rates in demanding ray-traced titles.
- DLSS Support: This is a major differentiator. The RTX 4070 supports DLSS 3, which includes Frame Generation, a technology that can dramatically boost frame rates. The RTX 2080 SUPER is limited to DLSS 2, which only offers super resolution upscaling.
Features and Technologies
The newer generation introduces several exclusive features that enhance both gaming and content creation.
- DLSS 3 & Frame Generation: Exclusive to the RTX 40 series, this can effectively double frame rates in supported games, a significant advantage for the RTX 4070.
- AV1 Encoding: The RTX 4070 includes a dual AV1 encoder, which is beneficial for streamers and video editors, offering higher quality at lower bitrates compared to the older H.264/HEVC encoders in the RTX 2080 SUPER.
- Power Efficiency: The Ada Lovelace architecture is notably more efficient. The RTX 4070 generally has a lower TDP (around 200W) than the RTX 2080 SUPER (250W), meaning it produces less heat and noise under load.
Comparison Table
| Feature | GeForce RTX 4070 | GeForce RTX 2080 SUPER |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Ada Lovelace | Turing |
| Process Node | 5nm | 12nm |
| CUDA Cores | 5888 | 3072 |
| RT Cores | 3rd Generation (46) | 1st Generation (48) |
| Tensor Cores | 4th Generation (184) | 2nd Generation (384) |
| VRAM | 12GB GDDR6X | 8GB GDDR6 |
| Memory Bus | 192-bit | 256-bit |
| Typical Game Clock | ~2475 MHz | ~1815 MHz |
| Typical Board Power (TBP) | 200W | 250W |
| Key Features | DLSS 3, Frame Generation, AV1 Encoder, Shader Execution Reordering | DLSS 2, Real-Time Ray Tracing (1st Gen), NVENC (H.264/HEVC) |
| PCIe Interface | PCIe 4.0 x16 | PCIe 3.0 x16 |
FAQ
What is the main performance difference between the RTX 4070 and RTX 2080 SUPER?
The RTX 4070 generally provides a substantial performance increase, particularly in ray tracing and when using DLSS 3. In many modern games, users can expect a noticeable jump in frame rates and visual fidelity.
Does the RTX 2080 SUPER support DLSS 3?
No, the RTX 2080 SUPER does not support DLSS 3 or its Frame Generation technology. It is compatible with DLSS 2, which offers super resolution upscaling but lacks the AI-generated frames that define DLSS 3.
Is the RTX 4070 more power-efficient than the RTX 2080 SUPER?
Yes, due to its more advanced 5nm architecture, the RTX 4070 typically operates at a lower power draw (around 200W) while delivering higher performance than the RTX 2080 SUPER (250W), making it a more efficient card.
Which card has more VRAM, and why does it matter?
The RTX 4070 has 12GB of VRAM compared to the 8GB in the RTX 2080 SUPER. More VRAM can be beneficial for gaming at higher resolutions, using detailed texture mods, and in professional creative applications that handle large datasets.
Final Thoughts
The comparison between the GeForce RTX 4070 and the RTX 2080 SUPER clearly illustrates the benefits of a generational leap in GPU technology. The RTX 4070 brings superior performance, especially in ray-traced scenarios, major feature additions like DLSS 3 Frame Generation and AV1 encoding, and significantly improved power efficiency. The RTX 2080 SUPER remains a capable card for its generation but is outpaced by the newer architecture and technologies. The choice between them often depends on an individual’s performance targets, desire for the latest features, and considerations regarding system power consumption.