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MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming Review | 118 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£570
  • VRAM: 8 GB
  • Memory bus width: 256 bit
  • Thermal Design Power (TDP): 180 W

MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming review. Compare 118 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among graphics cards and if it is worth buying.

4.8

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%

4.8

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
4.8

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%

3.2

Performance

24.0%

4.4

Memory

12.0%

8.3

Power & Cooling

11.0%

6.0

Platform & Features

5.0%

7.8

Design

4.0%

8.2

Connectivity & Media

Poor
?

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%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 6.7
    Gaming

    Score components:

    45.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    2.8

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 6.0
    Video editing

    Score components:

    35.0%

    7.0

    AV1 encode

    30.0%

    2.8

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    15.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 6.7
    1080p

    Score components:

    55.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    2.8

    VRAM

    10.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 6.4
    1440p

    Score components:

    50.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    30.0%

    2.8

    VRAM

    15.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 6.2
    4K

    Score components:

    40.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    35.0%

    2.8

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £570

Best rankings

?

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

Verdict

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming is a high-end graphics card featuring the NVIDIA Pascal architecture with 2560 CUDA cores and 8GB of GDDR5X memory on a 256-bit bus. It offers versatile performance through triple clock modes, including an OC Mode with a boost frequency of 1847 MHz and 10,108 MHz memory speeds. Its primary strengths lie in the Twin Frozr VI cooling system and TORX 2.0 fans, which ensure exceptionally quiet operation and low temperatures, even under heavy 4K or VR workloads. Major pros include a premium metal backplate, customizable RGB lighting, and a factory overclock that significantly outperforms the Founders Edition. However, its considerable width may present fitment issues in smaller cases, and some users found the proprietary Gaming App software slightly cumbersome for advanced tuning.

Technical Specifications of MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming

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%

?

Performance

24.0%

?

Memory

12.0%

?

Power & Cooling

11.0%

?

Platform & Features

5.0%

?

Design

4.0%

?

Connectivity & Media

4.8
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a technical score of 4.81 points, which is lower than that of 80% 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%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
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.
1.0
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 55.9% 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%

4.8

Overall score

40.0%

7.5

Price

5.6
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.6 points, which is lower than 89.4% 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

?
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

?
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

?
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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

8 GB
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has 8 GB of VRAM, which is less than 57.6% of graphics cards and equal to 25.1% 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

GDDR5X
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

GDDR5X
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming uses GDDR5X memory, which is older than on 83.5% of graphics cards and equal to 1.5% 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
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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

320 GB/s
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming reaches 320 GB/s memory bandwidth, which is lower than that of 66.6% of graphics cards and equal to that of 2.9% 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
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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

?
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

?
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
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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

?
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
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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

1.4
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming supports DisplayPort 1.4, which is older than on 77.3% of graphics cards and equal to 16.2% 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

8.1 Gbps
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming supports DisplayPort link rates up to 8.1 Gbps, which is slower than on 50.4% of graphics cards and equal to 40.5% of graphics cards.
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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

180 W
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a TDP of 180 W, which is lower than that of 58.1% of graphics cards and equal to that of 4.1% 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

250 W
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming draws 250 W under peak load, which is higher than 58.1% of graphics cards and equal to 5.3% of graphics cards.
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
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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

?
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

?
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

279 mm
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming is 279 mm long, which is shorter than 54.3% of graphics cards and equal in length to 0.5% 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

140 mm
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming is 140 mm tall, which is taller than 76.4% of graphics cards and equal in height to 5.6% of graphics cards.
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
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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

1,100 g
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming weighs 1100 g, which is heavier than 57.5% of graphics cards and equal in weight to 0.8% of graphics cards.
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MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming vs the average graphics card

  • 5.72x faster VRAM clock
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (10,010 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

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (10,010 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.10010 MHz vs 1750 MHz
  • 23.1% lower PSU requirement
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.1 vs 0
  • 16.3% lower TDP
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (180 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

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (180 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.180 W vs 215 W
  • Supports multi-GPU linking
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
  • Supports NVLink
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming supports NVLink, the average graphics card does not.
    What it is: Supports NVIDIA NVLink or bridge connection for multi-GPU setups
    When it matters: When a professional or niche multi-GPU workflow needs a bridge connection.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming supports NVLink, the average graphics card does not.
  • 5.72x faster VRAM clock
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (10,010 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
  • Supports multi-GPU linking
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
  • Supports NVLink
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming supports NVLink, the average graphics card does not.
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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.
  • 16.3% lower TDP
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (180 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.

Total
Memory
Platform & Features
Connectivity & Media
Power & Cooling
  • 20 fewer compute units
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (20 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
  • 37.2% lower pixel rate
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (103.7 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 165.2 GPixel/s.
  • 16.3% lower base clock speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,607 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.
  • 24 fewer TMUs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (160 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
  • 47.3% slower memory speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (10,008 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.
  • 4 GB less VRAM
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (8 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
  • 93.8% smaller L2 cache
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has fewer L2 cache than the average graphics card (2 MB vs 32 MB). The average graphics card has 32 MB L2 cache.
  • 28.6% lower memory bandwidth
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a lower memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (320 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.
  • 62.5% smaller L1 cache
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has fewer L1 cache than the average graphics card (48 vs 128). The average graphics card has 128 L1 cache.
  • 3.2x larger process node
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a higher process node than the average graphics card (16 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.
  • Older PCIe version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).
  • 7 older
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming was released earlier than the average graphics card (2,016 vs 2,023).
  • No mesh shaders
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming does not support mesh shaders, the average graphics card does.
  • Worse SAM support
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming offers worse SAM support than the average graphics card (no vs yes).
  • Older encoder generation
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming uses an older encoder generation than the average graphics card (4 vs 8). The average graphics card uses encoder generation 8.
  • No sampler feedback
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming does not support sampler feedback, the average graphics card does.
  • 67.1% fewer transistors
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has fewer transistors than the average graphics card (7,200 million vs 21,900 million). The average graphics card has 21,900 million transistors.
  • No AV1 encoding
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No AV1 decoding
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming does not support AV1 decoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No DSC support
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming does not support DSC, the average graphics card does.
  • Older DisplayPort version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming supports an older DisplayPort version than the average graphics card (1.4 vs 1.4a).
  • Older HDMI version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming supports an older HDMI version than the average graphics card (2.0b vs 2.1).
  • Older HDCP version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming supports an older HDCP version than the average graphics card (2.2 vs 2.3).
  • 1 fewer fans
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).
  • 13 °C higher idle temperature
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a higher idle temperature than the average graphics card (51 °C vs 38 °C). The average graphics card has an idle temperature of 38 °C.
  • 5 °C higher load temperature
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a higher load temperature than the average graphics card (72 °C vs 67 °C). The average graphics card has a load temperature of 67 °C.
  • 13 mm higher card profile
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming is taller than the average graphics card (140 mm vs 127 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 127 mm.
  • 3.2x larger process node
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a higher process node than the average graphics card (16 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

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a higher process node than the average graphics card (16 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.16 nm vs 5 nm
  • 20 fewer compute units
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (20 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

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (20 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.20 vs 40
  • 1 fewer fans
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming 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

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).2 vs 3
  • 47.3% slower memory speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (10,008 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

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (10,008 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.10008 MHz vs 19000 MHz
  • 4 GB less VRAM
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (8 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

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (8 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.8 GB vs 12 GB
  • 37.2% lower pixel rate
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (103.7 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 165.2 GPixel/s.
    What it is: Number of pixels the GPU can render per second
    When it matters: When you play at high resolutions or care about older raster-heavy games.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (103.7 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 165.2 GPixel/s.103.7 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s
  • No AV1 encoding
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.
    What it is: Supports hardware encoding of AV1 video codec
    When it matters: When you stream or export video and want efficient AV1 encoding on the GPU.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.No vs yes
  • Older PCIe version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).
    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

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).3.0 vs 4.0
Total
Overall
Performance
Memory
Platform & Features
Connectivity & Media
Power & Cooling
Design

Graphic comparison of MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming and

Attribute category
Attribute
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Third-party reviews

What customers like about MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming?

  • Runs exceptionally cool and quiet thanks to the Twin Frozr VI thermal design
  • Significant performance lead over the Founders Edition (roughly 10% faster)
  • Zero Frozr technology allows fans to stay completely off during low loads for silent operation
  • High build quality with a rigid metal backplate for structural support
  • Customizable RGB lighting through the mature MSI Gaming App
  • Easily handles 1440p gaming at high refresh rates

What customers dislike about MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming?

  • Limited overclocking headroom due to factory-imposed power and voltage limits
  • One LED section (shroud claws) is permanently locked to red, limiting color coordination
  • Relatively large physical dimensions, particularly the PCB width, which may not fit in slim cases
  • Significantly higher power draw during gaming compared to the reference design
  • Originally launched with a high price premium over other custom variants

Expert reviews

T
techpowerup.com
13/06/2016
MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X 8 GB Review

The TechPowerUp review of the MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X 8 GB highlights a well-engineered card featuring the quiet and efficient Twin Frozr VI cooler, along with a strong factory overclock for high-end gaming. Key benefits include exceptional noise management, 1440p/4K capability, and a robust, RGB-enabled design. Conversely, the card's increased width and height may complicate...Read more

T
tomshardware.com
09/12/2016
Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 Graphics Card Roundup

The MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is a balanced, two-slot graphics card that offers a reliable factory overclock without breaking the bank. Weighing 1101g and stretching 11.2 inches long, it features a heavy internal stability frame and dual ball-bearing fans that extend the card's height to over 5 inches. Performance-wise, the card holds its GPU Boost frequency steadily around 1936 MHz...Read more

T
tech-critter.com
06/09/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G Review - Tech Critter

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G features a custom Twin Frozr VI cooler with TORX 2.0 dual-ball-bearing fans and six 8mm thick copper heat pipes, delivering excellent cooling performance and near-silent operation. Built on Nvidia's 16nm Pascal architecture, the graphics card comes factory-overclocked with three distinct performance profiles—OC, Gaming, and Silent modes. It...Read more

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bit-tech.net
06/07/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G Review | bit-tech.net

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is a premium, dual-slot graphics card featuring a robust 8 PWM phase power design and Military Class 4 components. Measuring 279mm long and 140mm tall, its hefty 1.1kg weight is well-supported by a rigid, standard backplate. The card utilizes the Twin Frozr VI cooling system, which includes upgraded dual Torx 2.0 fans that turn off completely...Read more

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kitguru.net
01/07/2016
MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G RGB Review - KitGuru

The KitGuru review gives the MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G a highly positive 9.0 rating out of 10, highlighting it as an incredibly attractive, premium-tier graphics card. Based on Nvidia's 16nm Pascal architecture, this custom model is uniquely equipped with a dual-fan Twin Frozr VI cooling setup—standing out against competitor triple-fan designs from ASUS and Gigabyte. The review...Read more

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guru3d.com
01/06/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 GAMING X 8G review

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 GAMING X 8G review by Guru3D highlights a highly efficient, custom-designed graphics card built on NVIDIA's 16 nm FinFET Pascal architecture. Featuring the GP104-400-A1 GPU, the card is equipped with 2,560 CUDA cores and 8 GB of cutting-edge GDDR5X memory running on a 256-bit bus, enabling an effective data rate of 10 Gbps. The review emphasizes its...Read more

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hardwarezone.com.sg
26/07/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming Z review: Cool, fast, and quiet

The HardwareZone review of the MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming Z 8G details an aggressively pre-overclocked graphics card that sits at the top of MSI's product stack, outperforming the reference Founders Edition model. The prominent pros of this card include its impressive out-of-the-box performance boost, delivering a 164MHz factory overclock over the base clock of the Founders Edition...Read more

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overclockers.com
26/07/2016
MSI GTX 1080 Gaming Z 8G Video Card Review

The MSI GTX 1080 Gaming Z 8G, reviewed by Overclockers, is a premium Pascal-based card featuring the highly efficient Twin Frozr VI cooler, 8GB GDDR5X memory, and a robust 10-phase power design, making it ideal for high-resolution gaming. Its standout performance is complemented by aesthetic features like RGB lighting and a durable backplate, ensuring both speed and visual appeal....Read more

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guru3d.com
18/07/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 GAMING Z 8G review

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 GAMING Z 8G review highlights a flagship graphics card powered by Nvidia's Pascal architecture, utilizing a GP104-400 GPU built on 16 nm FinFET technology with 2,560 CUDA cores and 8 GB of GDDR5X memory. Guru3D emphasizes that this top-tier "Z" model comes factory-overclocked with a base clock of 1,771 MHz, which dynamically boosts and consistently hovers...Read more

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digitalfoundry.net
17/07/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming Z review: Living the 4K dream?

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming Z is a custom, factory-overclocked graphics card that delivers impressive performance close to the limits of Nvidia's GP104 Pascal architecture. Built on a custom PCB, it features MSI’s Twin Frozr 6 cooler with Torx 2 fan technology, which operates up to 35% quieter and 20% cooler than Nvidia's Founders Edition. The card includes an illuminated...Read more

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pcmag.com
12/07/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G Review

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is recognized as a high-performance, well-built graphics card suitable for 4K and VR, earning an Editors' Choice award for its superior thermal efficiency, quiet operation, and customizable RGB lighting. Powered by Pascal architecture, it offers significant performance gains over the Founders Edition, roughly 10% faster in DirectX 12,...Read more

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bit-tech.net
06/07/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G Review

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is a high-performance graphics card designed for 1440p and 4K gaming, featuring the Twin Frozr VI cooler for exceptionally quiet and cool operation. In performance benchmarks, it is 22% faster than the GTX 1070 Strix and 35% faster than the GTX 980 Ti, trading blows with top-tier competitors like the EVGA GTX 1080 FTW. While it offers three...Read more

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tweaktown.com
14/06/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G - A Totally Silent ...

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is a highly impressive custom graphics card that pairs NVIDIA's 16nm Pascal architecture with MSI's advanced Twin Frozr VI cooling system. Equipped with dual Torx 2.0 fans and a massive nickel-plated copper baseplate, the card delivers a premium, robust design featuring customizable RGB lighting and a durable backplate. Performance-wise, it...Read more

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notebookcheck.net
13/12/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G Review

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is a premium, high-end desktop graphics card utilizing the GP104 Pascal architecture built on a 16 nm process. Featuring 2,560 shader units, a 256-bit memory bus, and 8 GB of GDDR5X VRAM, it offers three performance profiles via software, delivering a default Gaming Mode base clock of 1687 MHz and an OC Mode boost clock of 1847 MHz. In...Read more

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overclock3d.net
09/06/2016
MSI GTX1080 Gaming X Review

The Overclock3D review praises the MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X for exceptional performance and the efficient Twin Frozr VI cooler, which keeps the card at 69°C under load with silent operation, offering a consistent 1930MHz boost clock. The card delivers performance close to SLI setups, with notable pros including its robust build and excellent out-of-the-box performance. However, the...Read more

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uk.pcmag.com
02/08/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G Review

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is a premium, well-built graphics card that delivers outstanding performance for 4K gaming and virtual reality (VR) workloads. Built on Nvidia's "Pascal" architecture, this card outperforms the standard Founders Edition across various DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 gaming benchmarks, often yielding a 10% performance advantage in DX12 titles. It...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
29/06/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X review

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X stands out for its effective Twin Frozr VI cooling, maintaining 67-71°C, and near-silent, factory-overclocked performance (up to 1961 MHz) with Zero Frozr technology. Pros include excellent thermal management, RGB lighting, a sturdy backplate, and diverse operating modes. However, the card’s larger, non-reference PCB may limit installation in small...Read more

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hexus.net
17/06/2016
Review: MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X

The HEXUS review of the MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X highlights a premium, well-constructed card featuring the effective Twin Frozr VI cooler, which keeps the GPU under 69°C while running quietly. Operating on a custom PCB with 1,683MHz/1,822MHz (base/boost) speeds, it offers strong 4K performance and good overclocking potential over 2,000MHz. Conversely, the card is priced at a...Read more

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pc-experience.de
13/01/2017
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G unboxed - PC-Experience

summary of the review: Review Summary The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is evaluated as an ultra-stable, high-end graphics card engineered with premium components that elevate it above standard reference models. Built on a massive 12-layer, flame-retardant FR5 PCB with a 10-phase PWM architecture (8 for the GPU, 2 for memory), it maximizes signal quality and provides robust power...Read more

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computerbase.de
12/08/2016
GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X im Test: MSI Twin Frozr VI trifft auf Pascal - ComputerBase

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X is a highly capable custom graphics card built around Nvidia's Pascal (GP104) architecture. Structurally, it features a massive, outlandishly long and high custom PCB powered by a 10-phase power delivery system and a combination of 8-pin and 6-pin PCIe connectors capable of drawing up to 300W. In real-world performance tests like Rise of the Tomb...Read more

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gamestar.de
03/06/2026
MSI Geforce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G - Besser als die Founders Edition? - GameStar

The GameStar review identifies the MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G as a superior, factory-overclocked alternative to the Founders Edition, offering increased performance with its Twin Frozr VI cooler. The card demonstrates higher frame rates, such as 160 FPS in Battlefield 4 (Full HD), and features a sturdy backplate, though it is larger and requires higher power input than the...Read more

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tomshardware.fr
29/03/2017
Comparatif : 17 GeForce GTX 1080 et 1070 en test Le Comptoir du Hardware

This comprehensive Tom's Hardware review evaluates 17 custom variants of the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 and GTX 1080, assessing their out-of-the-box clock speeds, power consumption, acoustics, and cooling design efficiency under load. While the factory-overclocked models perform similarly in in-game frame rates, notable disparities emerge in hardware construction and thermal...Read more

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tech.everyeye.it
20/09/2016
MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G: recensione e video recensione Everyeye Tech

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is a high-performance custom graphics card based on NVIDIA's Pascal architecture, which dominates the high-end consumer market against AMD's Polaris alternatives. This specific variant delivers enough processing power to effortlessly maximize gaming experiences at both Full HD (1080p) and 2K (1440p) resolutions. It is also capable of driving 4K...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
29/06/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X review – silence, high performance and factory overclock

The LaptopMedia review of the MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X highlights exceptional thermal control and acoustic performance, featuring the Twin Frozr VI cooler that keeps temperatures at 67–69°C under load with virtually silent operation. The card offers impressive performance, including a stable 1961 MHz factory overclock and robust MSI Gaming App software, though some users may...Read more

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multiplayer.it
06/07/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G - Recensione

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is a premium custom graphics card built on NVIDIA’s 16nm Pascal architecture (GP104 chip) that delivers exceptional performance jumps over the previous Maxwell generation. Equipped with 2560 CUDA cores, 8GB of fast GDDR5X memory, and a factory-overclocked boost clock reaching up to 1847 MHz, this GPU outperforms a dual GTX 980 SLI setup. In...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
29/06/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X review – stilte, hoge prestaties en fabrieksmatige overclock

The LaptopMedia review highlights the MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X as a high-performance card featuring the Twin Frozr VI cooling system, which delivers efficient, near-silent operation under 70°C. It boasts exceptional 1440p and 4K performance, with a pre-installed app enabling a factory overclock to 1961 MHz, alongside a solid, RGB-lit design. While offering strong performance,...Read more

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