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MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming Review | 118 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£250
  • Avg. price in US: ~$370
  • VRAM: 11 GB
  • Memory bus width: 352 bit
  • Thermal Design Power (TDP): 250 W

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

5.0

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%

5.0

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Good
5.0

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%

4.3

Performance

24.0%

4.9

Memory

12.0%

5.3

Power & Cooling

11.0%

6.4

Platform & Features

5.0%

6.3

Design

4.0%

7.1

Connectivity & Media

Good
?

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

  • 4.5
    Gaming

    Score components:

    45.0%

    2.7

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    3.7

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 5.6
    Video editing

    Score components:

    35.0%

    ?

    AV1 encode

    30.0%

    3.7

    VRAM

    20.0%

    2.7

    Floating-point performance

    15.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 4.0
    1080p

    Score components:

    55.0%

    2.7

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    3.7

    VRAM

    10.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 4.0
    1440p

    Score components:

    50.0%

    2.7

    Floating-point performance

    30.0%

    3.7

    VRAM

    15.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 4.3
    4K

    Score components:

    40.0%

    2.7

    Floating-point performance

    35.0%

    3.7

    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~ £250

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 GTX 1080 Ti Gaming 11G is a powerful Pascal-architecture graphics card featuring 11GB of GDDR5X memory on a wide 352-bit bus, delivering exceptional performance for 4K and VR gaming. Built with a custom PCB and the Twin Frozr VI thermal design, it utilizes dual Torx 2.0 fans and a massive 2.5-slot heatsink to maintain a boost clock of up to 1607 MHz in Gaming Mode while remaining nearly silent under load. Its primary advantages include elite 4K performance, a robust metal backplate for structural support, and premium connectivity options like two HDMI 2.0b ports and two DisplayPort 1.4 outputs. However, potential drawbacks include its large 290mm physical footprint which may not fit in compact cases, a high 250W power draw requiring a minimum 600W power supply, and a red-and-black aesthetic that can clash with certain custom RGB builds.

Technical Specifications of MSI GTX 1080 Ti 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

5.0
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a technical score of 5 points, which is lower than that of 77.7% 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%

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 GTX 1080 Ti 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%

5.0

Overall score

40.0%

9.2

Price

6.3
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming 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

?
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

11.88 TFLOPS
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming delivers 11.88 TFLOPS floating-point performance, which is lower than that of 75.2% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.1% 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

11 GB
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has 11 GB of VRAM, which is less than 54.6% of graphics cards and equal to 1.5% 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 GTX 1080 Ti 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

352 bit
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming uses a 352 bit memory bus, which is wider than that of 87.8% of graphics cards and equal to that of 1.5% 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

484.4 GB/s
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming reaches 484.4 GB/s memory bandwidth, which is higher than that of 53% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.3% 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 GTX 1080 Ti 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 GTX 1080 Ti 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

1.4
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming 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

4.5
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming supports OpenGL 4.5, which is older than on 95.2% of graphics cards and equal to 3.3% 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 GTX 1080 Ti 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

7680x4320
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming supports a maximum digital resolution of 7680x4320, which is higher than that of 44.4% of graphics cards and equal to that of 55.6% 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

2
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming offers 2 DisplayPort outputs, which is fewer than 79.2% of graphics cards and equal to 10.2% 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 GTX 1080 Ti 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 GTX 1080 Ti 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

250 W
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a TDP of 250 W, which is higher than that of 58.4% of graphics cards and equal to that of 6.1% 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

?
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

600 W
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming recommends a 600 W PSU, which is lower than that of 55.7% of graphics cards and equal to that of 7.5% 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

330 W
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a board power limit of 330 W, which is higher than that of 80.2% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.8% 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

250 W
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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

290 mm
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming is 290 mm long, which is longer than 51.7% of graphics cards and equal in length to 0.7% 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 GTX 1080 Ti 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

?
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

1,257 g
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming weighs 1257 g, which is heavier than 65.7% of graphics cards and equal in weight to 0.2% of graphics cards.
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MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming vs the average graphics card

  • 96 bit wider memory bus
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a wider memory bus than the average graphics card (352 bit vs 256 bit). The average graphics card has a memory bus width of 256 bit.
    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

    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a wider memory bus than the average graphics card (352 bit vs 256 bit). The average graphics card has a memory bus width of 256 bit.352 bit vs 256 bit
  • 24 more ROPs
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has more ROPs than the average graphics card (88 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.
    What it is: Total number of render output units on the GPU
    When it matters: When you want more context on pixel output capacity, especially for high-resolution play and older raster-heavy engines.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has more ROPs than the average graphics card (88 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.88 vs 64
  • 40 more TMUs
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has more TMUs than the average graphics card (224 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
    What it is: Total count of texture mapping units on the GPU
    When it matters: When texture-heavy gaming performance matters and you want extra hardware context behind texture-rate claims.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has more TMUs than the average graphics card (224 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.224 vs 184
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti 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 GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.1 vs 0
  • 8.1% higher memory bandwidth
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a higher memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (484.4 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.
    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

    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a higher memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (484.4 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.484.4 GB/s vs 448 GB/s
  • 2.12x cheaper
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming is cheaper than the average graphics card (£250 vs £530).
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming is cheaper than the average graphics card (£250 vs £530).£250 vs £530
  • 7.7% lower PSU requirement
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (600 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 GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (600 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.600 W vs 650 W
  • Supports NVLink
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti 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 GTX 1080 Ti Gaming supports NVLink, the average graphics card does not.
  • 24 more ROPs
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has more ROPs than the average graphics card (88 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.
  • 40 more TMUs
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has more TMUs than the average graphics card (224 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
  • 96 bit wider memory bus
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a wider memory bus than the average graphics card (352 bit vs 256 bit). The average graphics card has a memory bus width of 256 bit.
  • 8.1% higher memory bandwidth
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a higher memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (484.4 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.
  • Supports NVLink
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming supports NVLink, the average graphics card does not.
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
  • 7.7% lower PSU requirement
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (600 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.

Total
Overall
Performance
Memory
Platform & Features
Connectivity & Media
Power & Cooling
  • 12 fewer compute units
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (28 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
  • 22.9% lower base clock speed
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,480 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.
  • 49.2% lower FP32 performance
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower FP32 performance than the average graphics card (11.6 TFLOPS vs 22.86 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP32 performance of 22.86 TFLOPS.
  • 11.7% lower pixel rate
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (145.8 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 165.2 GPixel/s.
  • 99.4% lower FP16 performance
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming 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.
  • 90.6% lower INT8 performance
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower INT8 performance than the average graphics card (44 TOPS vs 466 TOPS). The average graphics card has INT8 performance of 466 TOPS.
  • 5.9% lower texture rate
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (354.4 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.
  • 42.1% slower memory speed
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (11,008 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.
  • 21.4% slower VRAM clock
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower VRAM clock than the average graphics card (1,376 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
  • 1 GB less VRAM
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (11 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
  • 62.5% smaller L1 cache
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti 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 GTX 1080 Ti 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 GTX 1080 Ti Gaming supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).
  • 6 older
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming was released earlier than the average graphics card (2,017 vs 2,023).
  • No mesh shaders
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming does not support mesh shaders, the average graphics card does.
  • Older encoder generation
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti 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 GTX 1080 Ti Gaming does not support sampler feedback, the average graphics card does.
  • 54.8% larger GPU die
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a higher GPU die size than the average graphics card (471 mm² vs 304.25 mm²). The average graphics card has a GPU die size of 304.25 mm².
  • Older OpenGL version
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming supports an older OpenGL version than the average graphics card (4.5 vs 4.6).
  • 1 fewer DisplayPort outputs
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average graphics card (2 vs 3). The average graphics card has 3 DisplayPort outputs.
  • No AV1 decoding
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming does not support AV1 decoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No DSC support
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming does not support DSC, the average graphics card does.
  • Older DisplayPort version
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming supports an older DisplayPort version than the average graphics card (1.4 vs 1.4a).
  • Older HDMI version
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming supports an older HDMI version than the average graphics card (2.0b vs 2.1).
  • Older HDCP version
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming supports an older HDCP version than the average graphics card (2.2 vs 2.3).
  • Older NVDEC generation
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming 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 GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).
  • 50% higher board power limit
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a higher board power limit than the average graphics card (330 W vs 220 W). The average graphics card has a board power limit of 220 W.
  • 16.3% higher TDP
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a higher TDP than the average graphics card (250 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
  • 13 mm higher card profile
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti 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 GTX 1080 Ti 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 GTX 1080 Ti 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
  • 1 fewer fans
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti 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 GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).2 vs 3
  • 12 fewer compute units
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (28 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 GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (28 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.28 vs 40
  • 42.1% slower memory speed
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (11,008 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 GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (11,008 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.11008 MHz vs 19000 MHz
  • 22.9% lower base clock speed
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,480 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

    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,480 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.1480 MHz vs 1920 MHz
  • Older PCIe version
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti 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 GTX 1080 Ti Gaming supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).3.0 vs 4.0
  • 49.2% lower FP32 performance
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower FP32 performance than the average graphics card (11.6 TFLOPS vs 22.86 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP32 performance of 22.86 TFLOPS.
    What it is: Single-precision floating-point performance in TFLOPs
    When it matters: When rendering, AI, or heavy compute work needs strong single-precision throughput.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming has a lower FP32 performance than the average graphics card (11.6 TFLOPS vs 22.86 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP32 performance of 22.86 TFLOPS.11.61 TFLOPS vs 22.86 TFLOPS
  • 6 older
    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming was released earlier than the average graphics card (2,017 vs 2,023).
    What it is: Official release or launch date of the GPU
    When it matters: When you care about platform age, driver maturity, and how current the design is.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming was released earlier than the average graphics card (2,017 vs 2,023).2,017 vs 2,023
Total
Overall
Performance
Memory
Platform & Features
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Graphic comparison of MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming?

  • Incredible performance for 4K Ultra and 1440p high-refresh gaming
  • Highly effective Twin Frozr VI cooling that maintains low temperatures under load
  • Extremely quiet operation, with fans that remain silent during light tasks
  • Solid build quality featuring a stylish metal backplate for added durability
  • User-friendly MSI Gaming App for quick overclocking and LED management

What customers dislike about MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming?

  • Large physical footprint (2.5-slot width) that may not fit in tighter PC cases
  • Significant weight can cause GPU sag, though some variants include a support bracket
  • Rigid red-and-black aesthetic that can clash with certain custom build color schemes
  • Notable price premium compared to some other third-party 1080 Ti models
  • Some users report audible coil whine, especially during synthetic benchmarks

Expert reviews

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techpowerup.com
03/04/2017
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X 11 GB Review | TechPowerUp

The TechPowerUp review of the MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X 11 GB highlights a factory-overclocked card (1544 MHz base/1657 MHz boost) using the TwinFrozr VI cooler for excellent thermal management (72°C) and quiet 35 dBA operation. Ideal for high-refresh-rate gaming, it features an idle-fan-off mode and dual HDMI ports, though its 8 pin layout drives power consumption up by 15% over the...Read more

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guru3d.com
29/03/2017
MSI GTX 1080 Ti GAMING X Review |

The MSI GTX 1080 Ti GAMING X is a custom-engineered powerhouse based on Nvidia's 16nm FinFET Pascal architecture, targeting top-tier Ultra HD (4K) and Wide Quad HD (1440p) gaming performance. Equipped with a slightly reconfigured GP102-350 GPU, 3,584 active CUDA cores, and 11 GB of high-speed GDDR5X memory across an unexpected 352-bit bus, this card acts essentially as a slightly...Read more

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tomshardware.com
09/05/2017
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X 11G Review | Tom's Hardware

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X 11G is a premium, high-performance graphics card designed for enthusiasts seeking a balanced blend of raw power and acoustic control. Built around the robust GP102 architecture with 3,584 CUDA cores, it features an aggressive out-of-the-box base clock of 1,544 MHz and a boost clock of 1,658 MHz. To differentiate itself from conservative reference...Read more

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hexus.net
04/05/2017
Review: MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X |

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X is a custom-cooled, high-end graphics card built with a premium red-and-black aesthetic, a sturdy metal backplate, and subtle RGB lighting. Structurally, it features a massive three-slot footprint measuring 290mm x 140mm x 51mm and weighing 1,257g, which makes it considerably less sleek than standard GTX 1080 models and may necessitate a GPU sag...Read more

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bit-tech.net
16/05/2017
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X 11G Review | bit-tech.net

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X 11G is a premium, flagship graphics card that utilizes a bulky 2.5-slot design to handle the massive heat output of Nvidia's top-tier GPU. Weighing 1.25kg, the card features a highly rigid plastic shroud and a ventilated metal backplate to prevent PCB bending, along with an 8 phase power delivery system built with Military Class 4 components for...Read more

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ign.com
31/07/2017
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X 11G Review |

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X 11G is a powerful, mid-range variant of Nvidia’s flagship 10-series GPU that offers stable, out-of-the-box performance. Built with a custom PCB and a thicker Twin Frozr VI heatsink, the graphics card automatically boosts its clock speed to 1923MHz under load. It can even hit a stable overclock of 1974MHz while maintaining safe, manageable load...Read more

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tektick.com
30/12/2018
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming Review | Bit-Tech

The MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X is a high-performance "behemoth" that offers a significant 20–30% performance boost over the standard GTX 1080, easily handling 1440p and 4K gaming. It features a robust 8 power design with Military Class components and a substantial cooling system that includes dual 100mm Torx 2.0 fans, a thick aluminum heat sink, and six heat pipes. Aesthetic additions...Read more

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hardwaresfera.com
15/05/2017
Review: MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X graphics card | HardwarEsfera If you would like to expand your search, please let me know if you want to include vide...

The MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X is an enhanced, custom version of NVIDIA's Pascal architecture GPU, packing 12 billion transistors, 3,584 CUDA Cores, and 11GB of second-generation Micron GDDR5X memory. Built for heavy 4K gaming, virtual reality, and cryptocurrency mining, this specific model features a modified PCB layout and a beefed-up power delivery system utilizing an 8 pin PCIe...Read more

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overclockers.com
09/05/2017
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X 11G GPU Review | Overclockers

The MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X 11G is a premium, high-performance card featuring a robust 8 phase power design and the effective Twin Frozr VI cooling system, making it ideal for smooth 4K gaming. Proponents of the card highlight its high factory overclock, quiet operation, and strong power delivery, according to the Overclockers review. Conversely, the card's 2.5-to-3-slot size is a...Read more

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tweaktown.com
06/04/2017
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X 11G Review - The Best! | TweakTown

The TweakTown review hails the MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Ti GAMING X 11G as a top-tier card, praising its exceptional 4K performance, superior custom PCB, and the 2.5-slot Twin Frozr VI cooler for delivering silent, cool operation. Key advantages include its high-end overclocking capabilities and the ability to outperform the more expensive NVIDIA Titan X. Conversely, the card is notable...Read more

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hardwareluxx.de
06/07/2017
Neun Modelle der GeForce GTX 1080 Ti im Test

Based on the review, this hardware round-up evaluates nine custom models of the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti, comparing their performance, cooling solutions, and factory overclocks against previous market benchmarks. The tested lineup showcases a highly diverse mix of thermal designs, ranging from standard open-air coolers to All-in-One liquid coolers and fully liquid-cooled...Read more

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hardwareinside.de
18/07/2026
MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X im Test

The MSI GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X is characterized as one of the fastest and quietest graphics cards of its generation, featuring the TwinFrozr VI cooling system with 8mm and 6mm nickel-plated copper heatpipes. In performance benchmarks, it significantly outpaces its predecessor, the GTX 980 Ti, delivering up to 80% higher frame rates in titles like Battlefield 1 and maintaining an...Read more

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tweakers.net
04/04/2017
MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X 11G Review

The MSI GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Gaming X 11G is a powerful graphics card that delivers outstanding performance, bridging a massive capability gap over the standard GTX 1080 and making high-end 4K/Ultra gaming a smooth, structural reality. Built with an expansive 2.5-slot Twin Frozr VI cooler, the card remains completely silent when idle and barely audible under heavy loads, all while...Read more

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