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MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X Review | 118 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£110
  • VRAM: 8 GB
  • Memory bus width: 256 bit
  • Thermal Design Power (TDP): 180 W

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

5.2

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%

4.7

Technical Score

10.0%

9.4

User score

Good
4.7

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%

3.7

Performance

24.0%

4.1

Memory

12.0%

6.0

Power & Cooling

11.0%

6.3

Platform & Features

5.0%

7.8

Design

4.0%

8.1

Connectivity & Media

Poor
9.4

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%

9.1

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
(404)
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4.2
(354)
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3.7
(7)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(426)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(365)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

Exceptional
  • 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

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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 MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X is a high-end Pascal-based graphics card featuring 2,560 CUDA cores and 8GB of GDDR5X memory on a 256-bit bus, delivering a 320 GB/s bandwidth. It operates with a factory-overclocked boost clock of up to 1,847 MHz in OC Mode and utilizes a 10-phase PWM design powered by an 8-pin and 6-pin connector. Main pros include its highly efficient Twin Frozr VI cooling system with Torx 2.0 fans that remain silent under 60°C, a sturdy metal backplate, and customizable RGB lighting. However, some users may find the card's significant width problematic for smaller cases or tight SLI configurations, and the fixed-red LED highlights on the shroud limit color-matching flexibility.

Technical Specifications of MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X

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%

3.7

Performance

24.0%

4.1

Memory

12.0%

6.0

Power & Cooling

11.0%

6.3

Platform & Features

5.0%

7.8

Design

4.0%

8.1

Connectivity & Media

4.7
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a technical score of 4.75 points, which is lower than that of 80.7% 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%

9.1

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
(404)
amazon
4.2
(354)
amazon
3.7
(7)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(426)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(365)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

9.4
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a user score of 9.36 points, which is higher than that of 88.1% 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
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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%

5.2

Overall score

40.0%

9.9

Price

6.6
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.6 points, which is lower than 57.2% 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

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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

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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

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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 X 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 X 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 X 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

323 GB/s
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X reaches 323 GB/s memory bandwidth, which is lower than that of 65.8% 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 X 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 X 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

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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
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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 X 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

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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 X 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 X 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

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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 X 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 X 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 X 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

220 W
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a board power limit of 220 W, which is lower than that of 47.8% of graphics cards and equal to that of 3.7% of graphics cards.
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

279 mm
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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 X 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 X 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 X 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 X vs the average graphics card

  • 23.1% lower PSU requirement
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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 X 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 X 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 X has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.1 vs 0
  • 4.82x cheaper
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X is cheaper than the average graphics card (£110 vs £530).
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X is cheaper than the average graphics card (£110 vs £530).£110 vs £530
  • 17.1% higher user score
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a higher user score than the average graphics card (9.36 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.
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a higher user score than the average graphics card (9.36 vs 8.000).9.36 vs 8
  • 16.3% lower TDP
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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 X 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 X 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 X supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
  • 4.34x more popular
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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.
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X is more popular than the average graphics card (10.00 vs 2.303).10 vs 2.3
  • Supports multi-GPU linking
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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 X 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 X 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
Overall
Platform & Features
Connectivity & Media
Power & Cooling
  • 26.1% lower boost clock speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,847 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.
  • 20 fewer compute units
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (20 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
  • 33.8% lower pixel rate
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (109.3 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 165.2 GPixel/s.
  • 27.5% lower texture rate
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (273.3 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.
  • 24 fewer TMUs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (160 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
  • 99.5% lower FP16 performance
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a lower FP16 performance than the average graphics card (0.2 TFLOPS vs 29.5 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP16 performance of 29.5 TFLOPS.
  • 46.8% slower memory speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (10,104 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 X 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 X has fewer L2 cache than the average graphics card (2 MB vs 32 MB). The average graphics card has 32 MB L2 cache.
  • 27.9% lower memory bandwidth
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a lower memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (323 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 X 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 X 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 X supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).
  • 7 older
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X was released earlier than the average graphics card (2,016 vs 2,023).
  • No mesh shaders
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X does not support mesh shaders, the average graphics card does.
  • No sampler feedback
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X does not support sampler feedback, the average graphics card does.
  • 67.1% fewer transistors
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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 X does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No AV1 decoding
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X does not support AV1 decoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No DSC support
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X does not support DSC, the average graphics card does.
  • Older DisplayPort version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X supports an older DisplayPort version than the average graphics card (1.4 vs 1.4a).
  • Older HDMI version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X supports an older HDMI version than the average graphics card (2.0b vs 2.1).
  • Older HDCP version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X supports an older HDCP version than the average graphics card (2.2 vs 2.3).
  • Older NVDEC generation
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a lower NVDEC generation than the average graphics card (3 vs 6). The average graphics card offers NVDEC generation 6.
  • 1 fewer fans
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).
  • 13 °C higher idle temperature
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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.
  • 13 mm higher card profile
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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 X 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 X 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
  • 26.1% lower boost clock speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,847 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

    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,847 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.1847 MHz vs 2500 MHz
  • 20 fewer compute units
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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 X 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 X 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 X has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).2 vs 3
  • 46.8% slower memory speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (10,104 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 X has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (10,104 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.10104 MHz vs 19000 MHz
  • 4 GB less VRAM
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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 X 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
  • 33.8% lower pixel rate
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (109.3 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 X has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (109.3 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 165.2 GPixel/s.109.3 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s
  • No AV1 encoding
    MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 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 X does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.No vs yes
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Performance
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Platform & Features
Connectivity & Media
Power & Cooling
Design

Graphic comparison of MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
404 Reviews
amazon
4.2
354 Reviews
amazon
3.7
7 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
426 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
365 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X?

  • Superior thermal management with the Twin Frozr VI cooler keeping temperatures typically below 70°C
  • Extremely quiet operation, including a zero RPM fan mode when under 60°C
  • High out-of-the-box performance surpassing the Founders Edition
  • Robust build quality featuring a solid metal backplate
  • Aesthetic design with customizable RGB lighting on the side logo
  • Decent manual overclocking headroom for enthusiasts

What customers dislike about MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X?

  • Large physical size (dual-slot but very wide) which may cause clearance issues in smaller cases
  • Higher power consumption during gaming compared to reference designs
  • Certain LED elements are fixed to red and cannot be changed via software
  • Positioned at a premium price point compared to some other partner cards
  • Lacks modern features like ray tracing or DLSS found in newer generations

Expert reviews

T
tweaktown.com
14/06/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G - TweakTown

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is a highly praised custom graphics card that pairs NVIDIA's 16nm Pascal architecture with MSI's custom Twin Frozr VI cooling system. Built on a custom PCB with a 10-phase PWM design, it features factory overclocks across three distinct modes: OC, Gaming, and Silent. The card adds a 6-pin PCIe power connector alongside the standard 8-pin...Read more

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

MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X Review Summary The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X is a highly capable, custom-engineered graphics card that features exceptional build quality and a visually pleasing dual-slot design measuring 279mm long. Equipped with the Twin Frozr VI cooling system and Torx 2.0 fans, the card delivers impressive cooling efficiency, keeping temperatures low while...Read more

K
kitguru.net
25/07/2016
MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G RGB SLI Review Are you looking for benchmarks on a specific modern game, or would you like to compare this card's current use...

The MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G RGB SLI configuration delivers exceptional performance across high-resolution and high-refresh-rate gaming setups, achieving an impressive 9.0/10 rating. Tested on a custom Intel 6700K testbench, a single card holds frame rates well above 60 fps at 1440p, while adding a second card via SLI scales beautifully, drastically lifting minimum frame rates to...Read more

U
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, factory-overclocked graphics card based on Nvidia's 2016 "Pascal" architecture. Priced at a retail MSRP of $719.99, it features a dual-slot footprint and utilizes the Twin Frozr VI cooling system, which employs dual ball-bearing fans that remain completely turned off until the GPU temperature exceeds 60°C. In benchmark testing...Read more

P
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-constructed graphics card, offering exceptional 4K and VR capabilities along with a quiet, efficient Twin Frozr VI cooling system. It provides significant gaming power, customizable RGB lighting, and robust software, although some users may find the red-only LED element limiting for color matching. While...Read more

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

The Overclock3D review of the MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X highlights the card’s exceptional Twin Frozr VI cooler, which delivers high air pressure while operating quietly. Featuring a robust custom PCB and factory-overclocked speeds nearing 1930 MHz, the card provides high-end performance with superior structural integrity. Key advantages include low operating temperatures of 69°C under...Read more

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

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is a premium, custom-cooled graphics card that features a factory-overclocked core clock of 1,708MHz (1,847MHz boost) and 8GB of GDDR5X memory running at an effective 10.1GHz in its top-tier "OC Mode". Built around an 8 PWM phase power design and Military Class 4 components, this robust 1.1kg card is physically large at 279mm long and 140mm tall,...Read more

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

The KitGuru review of the MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G RGB highlights it as an exceptionally attractive and highly capable graphics card, earning a strong 9.0 out of 10 rating. Built on Nvidia's Pascal architecture with 2,560 CUDA cores and 8GB of GDDR5X memory, this card is factory overclocked out of the box. In its standard "Gaming Mode," it operates at a base clock of 1,683MHz with a...Read more

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

The LaptopMedia review highlights the MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X as a premier, silent, and factory-overclocked card based on the Pascal architecture, featuring the advanced Twin Frozr VI cooler for exceptional thermal management. Key pros include Zero Frozr technology for silent operation, stable loads under 70°C, and easy, one-click performance boosts via the MSI Gaming App....Read more

G
gamersnexus.net
21/06/2016
MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X Review, Overclocking, & Thermal Benchmarks

MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X Review Summary The MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X features a custom Twin Frozr VI air cooler and a robust 10 phase VRM power design, offering a meaningful thermal upgrade over Nvidia’s reference Founders Edition card. In benchmarks, the card achieved a 23.75% reduction in load temperatures, operating at a stable 45.3°C delta over ambient while running completely silent...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
13/06/2016
MSI GTX 1080 Gaming X 8 GBGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. Review

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G features the Twin Frozr VI cooler, offering superior cooling (around 71°C) and near-silent operation. It provides high factory overclocks (1,847 MHz boost) for excellent 1440p and 4K performance, supported by a robust 10-phase power design. YouTube · Drawbacks include its significant 140mm height, which may limit case compatibility. While...Read more

T
tomshardware.fr
29/03/2026
Comparatif : 17 GeForce GTX 1080 et 1070 en test

This 2017 review evaluates 17 custom and reference models of the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 and GTX 1070 graphics cards, focusing on their real-world power consumption, operating temperatures, and acoustic performance rather than just raw processing speeds. Among the high-end GTX 1080s, the Gigabyte Xtreme Gaming model stands out as a top performer due to its effective "Stack Fan"...Read more

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N
noticias3d.com
No date provided
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 GAMING X 8G - Noticias3D.com

This review evaluates the MSI GeForce GTX 1080 GAMING X 8G graphics card, highlighting its performance advantages over the standard Founders Edition (FE) model due to a factory overclock of approximately 6%. This clock speed boost directly translates into proportional performance gains across various gaming benchmarks, with a notable performance increase observed in DirectX 12...Read more

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T
tech.everyeye.it
11/08/2016
Recensione MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is a premium custom graphics card built on NVIDIA's 16nm Pascal architecture, specifically tailored for elite gamers seeking uncompromised performance at 1080p and 2K resolutions. Tested on a system featuring an Intel i7 6700K and 16GB of DDR4 RAM, the GPU delivers exceptional frame rates in demanding titles, such as 105 fps in Batman: Arkham...Read more

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T
tomshw.it
20/12/2016
Confronto GTX 1080, tanti modelli in test

This Tom's Hardware review compares ten different GeForce GTX 1080 graphics cards to determine the best purchase options based on noise, temperature, and power consumption. While all models share the same underlying GPU and deliver similar gaming performance, third-party versions generally outperform the Nvidia Founders Edition. The Founders Edition boasts excellent build quality...Read more

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T
tweakers.net
09/06/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 GAMING X 8G Review - Tweakers

Based on the user-provided review, here is a two-paragraph summary in English: The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Gaming X 8G is crowned by the reviewer as the new king of high-end graphics cards, completely outclassing previous top-tier options like the GTX 980 Ti and AMD Fury X across all tested resolutions. Built on a 16nm GP104 architecture with 2,560 CUDA cores and 8GB of fast GDDR5X...Read more

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