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ASUS GeForce GTX 980 Review | 118 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£55
  • Avg. price in US: ~$60
  • VRAM: 4 GB
  • Memory bus width: 256 bit
  • Thermal Design Power (TDP): 165 W

ASUS GeForce GTX 980 review. Compare 118 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among graphics cards and if it is worth buying.

4.7

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the graphics card's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best graphics cards on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.3

Technical Score

10.0%

9.0

User score

Poor
4.3

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the graphics card's technical performance, covering key areas such as gaming and rendering performance, ray tracing, memory configuration, power efficiency, cooling, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare graphics cards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

44.0%

2.8

Performance

24.0%

3.5

Memory

12.0%

7.7

Power & Cooling

11.0%

5.1

Platform & Features

5.0%

7.8

Design

4.0%

7.7

Connectivity & Media

Poor
9.0

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the graphics card.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a graphics card performs in real use and how reliable it is in terms of performance, temperatures, noise, stability, and long-term ownership.

Score components:

70.0%

8.5

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(239)
amazon
4.0
(194)
amazon
5.0
(5)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(206)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

Exceptional
  • 3.4
    Gaming

    Score components:

    45.0%

    1.4

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    1.6

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 4.4
    Video editing

    Score components:

    35.0%

    7.0

    AV1 encode

    30.0%

    1.6

    VRAM

    20.0%

    1.4

    Floating-point performance

    15.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 2.7
    1080p

    Score components:

    55.0%

    1.4

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    1.6

    VRAM

    10.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 2.8
    1440p

    Score components:

    50.0%

    1.4

    Floating-point performance

    30.0%

    1.6

    VRAM

    15.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 3.1
    4K

    Score components:

    40.0%

    1.4

    Floating-point performance

    35.0%

    1.6

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • asus-geforce-gtx-980
  • asus-geforce-gtx-980
  • asus-geforce-gtx-980
asus-geforce-gtx-980
asus-geforce-gtx-980
asus-geforce-gtx-980

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Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Asus GeForce GTX 980, specifically the Strix edition, is a high-performance graphics card built on NVIDIA’s 28nm Maxwell architecture featuring 2,048 CUDA cores and 4GB of GDDR5 memory on a 256-bit interface. It comes factory overclocked with a base clock of 1178 MHz and a boost clock of 1279 MHz, delivering a memory bandwidth of 224.4 GB/s. Its main characteristics include the DirectCU II cooling system with 0dB fan technology for silent operation under light loads and a 10-phase Super Alloy Power design for enhanced stability. Key pros include exceptional power efficiency with a 165W TDP, massive overclocking headroom, and a versatile output array comprising three DisplayPort 1.2, one HDMI 2.0, and one DVI-I port. However, notable cons include its limited 4GB VRAM which struggles with modern AAA titles at high resolutions, lack of factory-overclocked memory, and a bulky physical size that may not fit in smaller cases.

Technical Specifications of ASUS GeForce GTX 980

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the graphics card's technical performance, covering key areas such as gaming and rendering performance, ray tracing, memory configuration, power efficiency, cooling, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare graphics cards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

44.0%

2.8

Performance

24.0%

3.5

Memory

12.0%

7.7

Power & Cooling

11.0%

5.1

Platform & Features

5.0%

7.8

Design

4.0%

7.7

Connectivity & Media

4.3
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a technical score of 4.25 points, which is lower than that of 87.2% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the graphics card.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a graphics card performs in real use and how reliable it is in terms of performance, temperatures, noise, stability, and long-term ownership.

Score components:

70.0%

8.5

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(239)
amazon
4.0
(194)
amazon
5.0
(5)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(206)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

9.0
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a user score of 8.96 points, which is higher than that of 76.9% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the graphics card.
When it matters: When you prefer a graphics card that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
10
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 77.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the graphics card's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a graphics card that offers a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.7

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

6.3
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.3 points, which is lower than 71.7% of products in this category.
3DMark Time Spy benchmark score
What it is: Benchmark result from 3DMark Time Spy, a synthetic DirectX 12 test often used as a quick gaming-performance reference.
When it matters: When you need a fast rough performance sort before digging into game-specific reviews and frame-rate data.

Importance: LOW

?
3DMark Port Royal score
What it is: Benchmark result from 3DMark Port Royal, a synthetic test focused on ray tracing performance.
When it matters: When ray tracing matters in the games you actually play and you want one quick way to separate stronger and weaker RT cards.

Importance: LOW

N/A
PassMark (G3D) result
What it is: Overall GPU performance score in PassMark G3D benchmark
When it matters: When you need one broad score to sort cards into rough performance tiers.

Importance: LOW

?
PassMark (DirectCompute) result
What it is: PassMark score for DirectCompute performance tests
When it matters: When compute workloads matter alongside gaming performance.

Importance: LOW

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Floating-point performance
What it is: Theoretical floating-point compute performance of the GPU.
When it matters: When rendering, AI, or heavy compute work needs strong single-precision throughput.

Importance: LOW

4.981 TFLOPS
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 delivers 4.981 TFLOPS floating-point performance, which is lower than that of 90.2% of graphics cards.
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VRAM
What it is: Total video memory available on the graphics card
When it matters: When you play at high settings, use texture mods, or work with large creative projects.

Importance: HIGH

4 GB
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has 4 GB of VRAM, which is less than 88% of graphics cards and equal to 6% of graphics cards.
Memory type
What it is: Type of graphics memory used (GDDR6, HBM2e, etc.)
When it matters: When memory technology is part of the buying decision because it affects bandwidth class, power use, and product positioning.

Importance: LOW

GDDR5
GDDR version
What it is: Generation of GDDR memory used by the graphics card.
When it matters: When you want to separate older memory generations from newer ones before comparing bandwidth, power behavior, and market tier.

Importance: LOW

GDDR5
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 uses GDDR5 memory, which is older than on 85% of graphics cards and equal to 13.2% of graphics cards.
Memory bus width
What it is: Width of the memory interface bus in bits
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance at higher resolutions, heavier texture settings, or ray-traced workloads that stress memory traffic.

Importance: HIGH

256 bit
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 uses a 256 bit memory bus, which is wider than that of 49.5% of graphics cards and equal to that of 36.1% of graphics cards.
Maximum memory bandwidth
What it is: Maximum data transfer rate between GPU and its memory
When it matters: When 4K gaming, ray tracing, or creator work can choke a slower memory subsystem.

Importance: HIGH

224.4 GB/s
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 reaches 224.4 GB/s memory bandwidth, which is lower than that of 83.5% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.2% of graphics cards.
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PCI Express (PCIe) version
What it is: Version of PCI Express interface supported
When it matters: When you are pairing the card with an older motherboard and want to avoid leaving bandwidth or future compatibility on the table.

Importance: LOW

3.0
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports PCIe 3.0, which is older than on 77.6% of graphics cards and equal to 20.3% of graphics cards.
PCIe lanes
What it is: Number of PCI Express lanes used for communication
When it matters: When limited lane width could bottleneck the card in some systems.

Importance: LOW

x16
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 uses x16 PCIe lanes, which is more than 31.5% of graphics cards and equal to 68.6% of graphics cards.
DirectX version
What it is: Highest supported DirectX API version
When it matters: When you play newer Windows games that depend on the latest graphics features.

Importance: LOW

12.1
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports DirectX 12.1, which is older than on 87.7% of graphics cards and equal to 4.9% of graphics cards.
Vulkan version
What it is: Highest supported Vulkan API version
When it matters: When modern games, emulators, or creative apps lean on Vulkan support.

Importance: LOW

1.4
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports Vulkan 1.4, which is more advanced than on 26.6% of graphics cards and equal to 73.4% of graphics cards.
OpenGL version
What it is: Highest supported OpenGL API version
When it matters: When older games or pro apps still depend on OpenGL compatibility.

Importance: LOW

4.6
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports OpenGL 4.6, which is more advanced than on 4.8% of graphics cards and equal to 95.2% of graphics cards.
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Max displays supported
What it is: Total number of external displays supported simultaneously
When it matters: When you run a multi-monitor desk for sim racing, trading, or editing.

Importance: LOW

4
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports up to 4 displays, which is more than 7.8% of graphics cards and equal to 89.2% of graphics cards.
Max digital resolution
What it is: Maximum supported digital display resolution
When it matters: When you plan to drive 4K or 8K panels at their native resolution.

Importance: LOW

4096x2160
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports a maximum digital resolution of 4096x2160, which is lower than that of 56.4% of graphics cards and equal to that of 2.4% of graphics cards.
DisplayPort outputs
What it is: Number of DisplayPort video outputs
When it matters: When your setup needs several high-refresh monitors without adapters.

Importance: LOW

3
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 offers 3 DisplayPort outputs, which is more than 20.9% of graphics cards and equal to 77.3% of graphics cards.
DisplayPort version
What it is: Version of DisplayPort standard supported
When it matters: When your monitor setup depends on newer DisplayPort features for higher refresh rates, higher resolution, or better cable flexibility.

Importance: LOW

1.2
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports DisplayPort 1.2, which is older than on 93.6% of graphics cards and equal to 4.8% of graphics cards.
DisplayPort link rates
What it is: Supported data link rates for DisplayPort connections
When it matters: When you are pushing high resolution and refresh rate over DisplayPort.

Importance: LOW

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Thermal Design Power (TDP)
What it is: Typical power consumption under full load (TDP)
When it matters: When you need a realistic idea of power draw before choosing a PSU or case.

Importance: MEDIUM

165 W
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a TDP of 165 W, which is lower than that of 65.4% of graphics cards and equal to that of 2.6% of graphics cards.
Power consumption while under peak load
What it is: Peak power draw of the graphics card under maximum load.
When it matters: When transient-heavy gaming loads could stress your power supply.

Importance: LOW

?
Recommended PSU wattage
What it is: Recommended wattage of the system power supply
When it matters: When you are checking whether your current power supply is enough.

Importance: LOW

500 W
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 recommends a 500 W PSU, which is lower than that of 76.2% of graphics cards and equal to that of 9.6% of graphics cards.
Board power limit
What it is: Maximum configurable power limit for the GPU board
When it matters: When you care about how far the card can be pushed through tuning or factory power settings.

Importance: LOW

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PCIe power spec
What it is: PCIe power delivery specification followed
When it matters: When you are checking whether the slot and external cables match the card's intended power-delivery standard.

Importance: LOW

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Size
What it is: Physical size of the GPU card
When it matters: When you need the card to fit a compact case without blocking nearby hardware.

Importance: LOW

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Length
What it is: Physical length of the GPU card
When it matters: When front radiators or drive cages leave only limited GPU clearance.

Importance: LOW

267 mm
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 is 267 mm long, which is shorter than 59.6% of graphics cards and equal in length to 3.4% of graphics cards.
Height
What it is: Physical height of the GPU card
When it matters: When side panels, brackets, or tight case layouts reduce vertical clearance.

Importance: LOW

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Slot width
What it is: Number of PCIe slots occupied by the card
When it matters: When you need room for another PCIe card or better airflow under the GPU.

Importance: LOW

2 slot/s
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 occupies 2 slot/s, which is slimmer than 49.2% of graphics cards and equal in width to 47.3% of graphics cards.
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the graphics card
When it matters: When sag, bracket support, or shipping stress matters in your build.

Importance: LOW

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ASUS GeForce GTX 980 vs the average graphics card

  • 23.1% lower PSU requirement
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (500 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.
    What it is: Recommended wattage of the system power supply
    When it matters: When you are checking whether your current power supply is enough.

    Importance: LOW

    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (500 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.500 W vs 650 W
  • 23.3% lower TDP
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (165 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
    What it is: Typical power consumption under full load (TDP)
    When it matters: When you need a realistic idea of power draw before choosing a PSU or case.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (165 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.165 W vs 215 W
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
    What it is: Number of DVI display outputs available
    When it matters: When you still use an older monitor that depends on DVI.

    Importance: LOW

    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.1 vs 0
  • 9.64x cheaper
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 is cheaper than the average graphics card (£55 vs £530).
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 is cheaper than the average graphics card (£55 vs £530).£55 vs £530
  • 12% higher user score
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a higher user score than the average graphics card (8.96 vs 8.000).
    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the graphics card.
    When it matters: When you want to understand how a graphics card performs in real use and how reliable it is in terms of performance, temperatures, noise, stability, and long-term ownership.
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a higher user score than the average graphics card (8.96 vs 8.000).8.96 vs 8
  • Supports multi-GPU linking
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
    What it is: Supports NVIDIA SLI or AMD CrossFire multi-GPU setup
    When it matters: When you still run legacy multi-GPU gaming or rendering workflows.

    Importance: LOW

    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
  • 0.2% faster VRAM clock
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (1,753 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
    What it is: Speed at which the GPU memory operates
    When it matters: When you want more context on how quickly the card's VRAM can move data.

    Importance: LOW

    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (1,753 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.1753 MHz vs 1750 MHz
  • 4.34x more popular
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 is more popular than the average graphics card (10.00 vs 2.303).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the graphics card.
    When it matters: When you prefer a graphics card that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 is more popular than the average graphics card (10.00 vs 2.303).10 vs 2.3
  • 0.2% faster VRAM clock
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (1,753 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
  • Supports multi-GPU linking
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
  • Supports NVLink
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports NVLink, the average graphics card does not.
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
  • 23.1% lower PSU requirement
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (500 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.
  • 23.3% lower TDP
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (165 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.

Total
Overall
Memory
Platform & Features
Connectivity & Media
Power & Cooling
  • 51.4% lower boost clock speed
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,216 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.
  • 24 fewer compute units
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (16 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
  • 41.3% lower base clock speed
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,127 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.
  • 58.7% lower texture rate
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (155.6 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.
  • 56.4% lower pixel rate
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (72.1 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 165.2 GPixel/s.
  • 78.2% lower FP32 performance
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower FP32 performance than the average graphics card (5 TFLOPS vs 22.86 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP32 performance of 22.86 TFLOPS.
  • 56 fewer TMUs
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (128 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
  • 78.4% lower compute throughput
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower compute throughput than the average graphics card (5 TFLOPS vs 23.105 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has compute throughput of 23.105 TFLOPS.
  • 66.5% lower FP64 performance
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower FP64 performance than the average graphics card (0.2 TFLOPS vs 0.4651 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP64 performance of 0.4651 TFLOPS.
  • 2,304 fewer FP32 units
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has fewer FP32 units than the average graphics card (2,048 vs 4,352). The average graphics card has 4,352 FP32 units.
  • 8 GB less VRAM
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (4 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
  • 63.1% slower memory speed
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (7,010 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.
  • 49.9% lower memory bandwidth
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (224.4 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.
  • 93.8% smaller L2 cache
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has fewer L2 cache than the average graphics card (2 MB vs 32 MB). The average graphics card has 32 MB L2 cache.
  • 5.6x larger process node
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a higher process node than the average graphics card (28 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.
  • 9 older
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 was released earlier than the average graphics card (2,014 vs 2,023).
  • Older PCIe version
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).
  • No XeSS support
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 does not support XeSS, the average graphics card does.
  • No mesh shaders
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 does not support mesh shaders, the average graphics card does.
  • Worse SAM support
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 offers worse SAM support than the average graphics card (no vs yes).
  • Older DirectX version
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports an older DirectX version than the average graphics card (12.1 vs 12 Ultimate).
  • No sampler feedback
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 does not support sampler feedback, the average graphics card does.
  • 30.8% larger GPU die
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a higher GPU die size than the average graphics card (398 mm² vs 304.25 mm²). The average graphics card has a GPU die size of 304.25 mm².
  • 76.3% fewer transistors
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has fewer transistors than the average graphics card (5,200 million vs 21,900 million). The average graphics card has 21,900 million transistors.
  • No AV1 encoding
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No AV1 decoding
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 does not support AV1 decoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No DSC support
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 does not support DSC, the average graphics card does.
  • Older DisplayPort version
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports an older DisplayPort version than the average graphics card (1.2 vs 1.4a).
  • Older HDMI version
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports an older HDMI version than the average graphics card (2 vs 2.1).
  • Older HDCP version
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports an older HDCP version than the average graphics card (2.2 vs 2.3).
  • Lower display resolution
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 supports a lower maximum digital resolution than the average graphics card (4096x2160 vs 7680x4320). The average graphics card supports a maximum digital resolution of 7680x4320.
  • 1 fewer fans
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).
  • No RGB lighting
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 does not include RGB lighting, the average graphics card does.
  • 51.4% lower boost clock speed
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,216 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.
    What it is: Maximum boost frequency the GPU can reach under load
    When it matters: When you want a rough idea of peak advertised frequency, while knowing real sustained clocks still depend on cooling and power limits.

    Importance: HIGH

    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,216 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.1216 MHz vs 2500 MHz
  • 5.6x larger process node
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a higher process node than the average graphics card (28 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.
    What it is: Size of the manufacturing process in nanometers
    When it matters: When process node differences may affect power, heat, and overall efficiency.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a higher process node than the average graphics card (28 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.28 nm vs 5 nm
  • 24 fewer compute units
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (16 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
    What it is: Total number of shader multiprocessors or compute units
    When it matters: When you want a better sense of the GPU's overall parallel hardware resources before relying on game benchmarks alone.

    Importance: HIGH

    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (16 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.16 vs 40
  • 8 GB less VRAM
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (4 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
    What it is: Total video memory available on the graphics card
    When it matters: When you play at high settings, use texture mods, or work with large creative projects.

    Importance: HIGH

    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (4 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.4 GB vs 12 GB
  • 41.3% lower base clock speed
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,127 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.
    What it is: Base operating frequency of the GPU core under standard conditions
    When it matters: When you want to understand the card's guaranteed starting frequency instead of looking only at optimistic boost figures.

    Importance: HIGH

    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,127 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.1127 MHz vs 1920 MHz
  • 1 fewer fans
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).
    What it is: Total number of cooling fans
    When it matters: When you compare cooler designs and want one more clue about thermal potential.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).2 vs 3
  • 58.7% lower texture rate
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (155.6 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.
    What it is: Number of textured pixels the GPU can process per second
    When it matters: When fast texture handling matters in high-refresh gaming workloads.

    Importance: HIGH

    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (155.6 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.155.6 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s
  • 63.1% slower memory speed
    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (7,010 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.
    What it is: Effective memory data rate combining clock and bus width
    When it matters: When you compare how quickly each card can push data through its memory subsystem.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    ASUS GeForce GTX 980 has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (7,010 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.7010 MHz vs 19000 MHz
Total
Overall
Performance
Memory
Platform & Features
Connectivity & Media
Power & Cooling
Design

Graphic comparison of ASUS GeForce GTX 980 and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
239 Reviews
amazon
4.0
194 Reviews
amazon
5.0
5 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
206 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about ASUS GeForce GTX 980?

  • High gaming performance, often exceeding the GTX 780 Ti
  • Exceptionally quiet operation with 0-dB fan technology that stops fans at low loads
  • Outstanding power efficiency for a high-end card
  • Substantial overclocking headroom with stable performance
  • High build quality including a protective and aesthetically pleasing metal backplate
  • Excellent cooling performance with the DirectCU II cooler

What customers dislike about ASUS GeForce GTX 980?

  • High retail price compared to the GTX 970, which offered better value for many
  • Large physical size requires significant space in the computer case
  • The 4 GB VRAM limit can be a bottleneck for modern, high-resolution gaming
  • Minimal included extras or accessories in the retail bundle
  • Reference models (non-Strix) can run warm under heavy load without custom fan curves

Expert reviews

T
techporn.ph
31/07/2015
ASUS GeForce GTX 980 STRIX OC Edition Review - TechPorn If you need help gathering performance benchmarks or comparing how these sub-models stack up a...

The TechPorn review highlights the ASUS GeForce GTX 980 STRIX OC Edition as a premium, factory-overclocked graphics card featuring a 1253 MHz base clock, a 1317 MHz boost clock, and 4GB of GDDR5 memory. Tested on an Intel Core i5-4670K system, the GPU delivered exceptional performance, making it a "no-brainer" choice for 1440p gaming and even supporting playable 4K resolution on...Read more

T
tomshardware.com
10/03/2015
Asus Matrix Platinum GeForce GTX 980 Review

The Asus ROG Matrix Platinum GTX 980 is a premium, factory-overclocked graphics card engineered specifically for the niche market of competitive and extreme overclockers. Built with a massive 140mm-tall frame weighing over 2.5 pounds, it boasts an aggressive out-of-the-box base clock of 1241MHz and a boost clock of 1342MHz. The card features a custom 14-phase power delivery system,...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
20/02/2015
ASUS GTX 980 Matrix 4 GB Review | TechPowerUp

The ASUS GTX 980 Matrix is a premium, factory-overclocked (1241 MHz) Maxwell GM204 card tailored for extreme overclockers, offering excellent performance, a sturdy backplate, and specialized features like an LN2 memory heater. However, at a $660 price point, the card suffers from loud fan noise under load, lack of an idle-fan-off feature, a very tall 15.5 cm footprint, and no...Read more

T
techenclave.com
30/01/2015
ASUS ROG Matrix GTX 980 Platinum Overclocking Review

The ASUS ROG Matrix GTX 980 Platinum is an exceptional, high-performance graphics card designed for extreme overclocking, featuring an advanced 14-phase Digi+ VRM setup with Super Alloy Power components that deliver massive, stable power delivery. In testing, the card achieved a stable core overclock of 1500MHz and an effective memory frequency of 8000MHz on its stock cooling system...Read more

O
overclockers.com
23/12/2014
ASUS ROG Poseidon GTX 980 Graphics Card Review

The ASUS ROG Poseidon GTX 980, as reviewed on Overclockers.com, features a DirectCU H2O hybrid cooler that supports both air and water cooling via standard G1/4-inch fittings. Built on a custom PCB, the card features a 10-phase power delivery design with 10K capacitors to support high factory overclocks. Key advantages include immense thermal versatility, yielding up to 27°C lower...Read more

T
tech-critter.com
28/11/2014
Unboxing & Review: ASUS STRIX GTX 980 OC Edition - Tech Critter

The ASUS STRIX GTX 980 OC Edition is a factory-overclocked graphics card featuring NVIDIA's energy-efficient Maxwell architecture, offering impressive performance that surpasses previous generation high-end models like the GTX 780 and R9 290X. It operates on a 1178 MHz base clock with a 1279 MHz boost clock, backed by 4GB of GDDR5 memory and a robust 256-bit interface. Built around...Read more

F
forums.overclockers.co.uk
13/10/2014
ASUS GTX 980 Strix OC edition Air and Ln2 Review

The Overclockers UK Forum review highlights the ASUS GTX 980 Strix OC Edition as a highly polished, premium flagship graphics card utilizing NVIDIA’s Maxwell architecture. A major pro of this card is its custom DirectCU II cooling solution and 0dB fan technology, which delivers exceptionally quiet, almost silent acoustics during ambient gaming and air-cooled benchmarking....Read more

B
bit-tech.net
09/02/2015
Asus GeForce GTX 980 Poseidon Platinum Review | bit-tech.net

The Asus GeForce GTX 980 Poseidon Platinum is a premium graphics card evaluated by bit-tech.net for its unique hybrid air and water-cooling functionality. Tested under intense benchmarks like Battlefield 4, Crysis 3, and Unigine Valley 1.0 at 2,560 x 1,440 resolution, the card demonstrates robust performance that positions it as a top-tier single GPU choice. On standard air cooling,...Read more

O
overclockers.com
23/10/2014
ASUS Strix GTX 980 Graphics Card Review - Overclockers

The Overclockers.com review praises the ASUS Strix GTX 980 for its superior DirectCU II cooling with 0dB silent fan technology, robust DIGI+ VRM power delivery, and high overclocking potential, exceeding 1500 MHz on the core. The card offers exceptional performance and a premium metal shroud, though it requires ample space due to its size. Conversely, the review notes cons including...Read more

B
bit-tech.net
08/10/2014
ASUS Strix GeForce GTX 980 DirectCU II OC Review - Bit-Tech

The bit-tech review evaluates the ASUS Strix GeForce GTX 980 DirectCU II OC, a premium 4GB graphics card priced at £499.99. The review highlights its outstanding premium build quality, featuring a sturdy brushed metal backplate with ventilation holes designed for tight SLI configurations and a high-end metal fan shroud. Internally, the card employs a beefy DirectCU II cooler with...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
21/10/2014
ASUS STRIX GTX 980 OC 4 GB Review - TechPowerUp

The ASUS STRIX GTX 980 OC is a highly power-efficient card offering a 5–7% factory-overclocked performance boost, suitable for high-detail 1440p and 1600p gaming. Key features highlighted in the TechPowerUp review include the DirectCU II cooler with silent 0 dB passive idle operation, a protective backplate, and HDMI 2.0 connectivity. Conversely, the card is physically large at 29...Read more

M
m.hexus.net
01/10/2014
Review: Asus GeForce GTX 980 Strix - Graphics - HEXUS.net

The HEXUS review of the Asus GeForce GTX 980 Strix describes it as a well-rounded graphics card that capitalizes on the efficiency of Nvidia’s Maxwell architecture to rein in power consumption, temperature, and noise. The pros of this card include an out-of-the-box factory overclock that makes it faster than the reference design, excellent cooling performance that keeps it much...Read more

E
edgeup.asus.com
30/09/2014
Tested - STRIX GTX 980 Review - ASUS Edge Up

The ASUS STRIX GTX 980 DirectCU II features 0dB fan technology and a massive heatsink, allowing for silent operation and running 30% cooler than reference designs. The card, equipped with a sturdy backplate and a 1279 MHz boost clock, delivers superior 4K gaming performance and high efficiency. While offering impressive, stable performance, the card has a relatively conservative...Read more

B
bit-tech.net
09/02/2015
Asus GeForce GTX 980 Poseidon Platinum Review | bit-tech.net

A major advantage of this graphics card is its incredible cooling flexibility, serving as the only hybrid air and water-cooled GTX 980 available on the market at the time, complete with standard G 1/4-inch threading for easy plumbing. It also boasts excellent build quality, dedicated voltage readouts for enthusiasts, and robust components designed to endure high temperatures....Read more

H
hardwareluxx.de
15. Januar 2015
ASUS ROG Matrix GeForce GTX 980 Platinum im SLI-Test

The ASUS ROG Matrix GeForce GTX 980 Platinum is a premium, enthusiast-class graphics card built on the 28 nm Maxwell (GM204) architecture, featuring 2,048 shader units and 4,096 MB of GDDR5 memory. ASUS aggressively pushes the card's out-of-the-box performance by raising the base clock to 1,241 MHz and the boost clock to 1,342 MHz, though the memory clock remains untouched at 1,750...Read more

(Translated)Show original
L
lesnumeriques.com
28/11/2014
Test Asus GeForce GTX 980 Strix OC, overclockée et silencieuse

The Asus GeForce GTX 980 Strix OC is a highly capable and exceptionally quiet graphics card based on the GM204 GPU architecture with 4GB of video memory. Equipped with a DirectCU II cooling system, its standout feature is the ability to turn off its twin fans completely when the GPU temperature drops below 65°C, ensuring absolute silence during light usage. Even under heavy gaming...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hardware.fr
19/07/2016
GeForce GTX 1070 8 Go et GTX 1060 6 Go : les cartes d'Asus, Gainward en test face aux Founders Edition Nvidia

The Hardware.fr review evaluates Nvidia's Pascal-based mid-to-high-end lineup, specifically comparing the Founders Edition cards against custom partner models: the Asus GeForce GTX 1070 Strix OC and the Gainward GeForce GTX 1060 6 Go Phoenix GS. The review details Nvidia's strategy to expand its market presence, positioning the GTX 1070 as an affordable alternative to the GTX 1080...Read more

(Translated)Show original
P
pc-gaming.it
11/12/2016
ASUS Strix GeForce GTX 980 - Recensione

The Asus Strix GeForce GTX 980, based on Nvidia’s Maxwell architecture, features a 1178 MHz base/1279 MHz boost overclock, 4GB GDDR5 VRAM, and the DirectCU II cooling system with 0dB fan technology. Its premium design includes a metal backplate and an aluminum frame for structural rigidity and improved heat dissipation. YouTube · Drawbacks include a conservative 5% factory overclock...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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