OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
Scored using Graphics cards Methodology v3.0
Graphics cards Methodology v3.0
Mathematical & Unbiased Scoring
Products in this category are scored under Frontum Graphics cards Methodology v3.0: the technical score from the specifications is the base, and independent expert and video reviews (up to ±0.5 points), owner opinions (up to ±0.3) and best-of lists (up to +0.3) move it up or down.
Explore Graphics cards Methodology v3.0

NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 review: 117 specs compared

Avg. price:~£560VRAM:3 GBMemory bus width:384 bitThermal Design Power (TDP):250 W

NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 Review: Compare 117 technical specifications and 42 expert and video reviews to see how this product ranks in the Graphics cards category and whether it is worth buying.

NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780
6.5/10

Overall score

Score
6.5/ 10
✕
What it is
Our main score for this model, 1–10. It combines specs, expert reviews, best-of lists and owners.
How we count it
Parts: Technical score 40%, Reviews score 25%, List score 25%, Sentiment score 10%
Marks: Each part gets a mark out of 10. For reviews, lists and owners, a typical model in this category gets about 8 and the best one gets 10.
No data yet: A part with no data shows "?". It counts as the mark of a weaker model in this category (4 in 5 models with data score higher). This way, models with reviews, lists and owners usually come out ahead.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 82% of models
Score components

40%

4.2

Technical score

25%

8.4

Reviews score

25%

?

List scoreNot enough data yet, so we use 7.5, the mark of a weaker model in this category

10%

8.5

Sentiment score

▼Worse than 82% of graphics cards
6.8

Value for money

Value for money
6.8/ 10
✕
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 distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 82% of models
Score components

70%

6.5

Overall score

30%

7.6

Price

▼Worse than 82%
4.2

Technical score

Technical score
4.2/ 10
✕
What it is
How good the specs are compared with the other models in this category, 1–10.
How we count it
Areas: We rate the specs in each area against the other models in this category.
Weighting: The areas that matter most to buyers count more. The shares are shown under Score components.
Share: The technical score is 40% of the overall score.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 92% of models
Score components

44%

2.3

Performance

24%

3.9

Memory

12%

6.9

Power

11%

6.4

Features

5%

8.1

Design

4%

6.3

Connectivity

▼Worse than 92%
8.4

Reviews score

Reviews score
8.4/ 10
✕
What it is
Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
How we count it
Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves. Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
Score: The average grade is 80% of the review mark; the number of reviews is the other 20% (1 review = 5, the typical number in this category = 8, the most-reviewed model = 10).
Enough data: With few reviews, the average grade is pulled toward the typical grade of this category. No reviews yet: 7.6 for now.
Share: Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 85% of models

80%

8.1

Average grade

20%

9.5

Popularity

Grades by review (42)
30 reviews: 13 with a printed score, 17 estimated from the review. 12 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
User ratings collected online are not part of this score.
▲Better than 85%
?

List score

List score
7.5/ 10
✕
What it is
How often independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers put this model in their best-of lists for this category.
How we count it
Points: The model in the most lists of this category gets 10; the others get 8 to 10 in proportion. In no list yet: 7.5. Lists count 25% of the overall score.
Enough data: Every list counts, even a single one. With fewer than 5 best-of lists in the category, this part is left out.
Lists with this model (0)
Not in any best-of list yet, so this part counts as 7.5. Models in a list get 8 to 10.
Not in any best-of list yet
  • nvidia-geforce-gtx-780
  • nvidia-geforce-gtx-780
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  • nvidia-geforce-gtx-780
  • nvidia-geforce-gtx-780
  • nvidia-geforce-gtx-780
  • nvidia-geforce-gtx-780
  • nvidia-geforce-gtx-780
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Where to buy
*As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.

What reviewers say about the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780

Based on 28 · 14

Reviewers like the solid build, quiet running and overclocking headroom, but criticize high power draw and weak compute; gaming performance splits opinion.
Praised
Mixed views
Criticised
Pick a topic to see who said what

What owners say about the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780

Based on 201 owners sharing their experience in online comments

77%positive10%mixed13%negative

Owners praise its long lasting gaming speed and overclocking, while heat, power draw and aging are the main frustrations.

What owners dislike

  • Several owners report sudden failures, including capacitors blowing and cards dying without warning, and one says a driver update fried the card while playing.8
  • Some owners see driver resets, lockups and crashes, especially when overclocking, and one reports stuttering that improved only in a power-saving mode.7
  • Owners say the card lacks DirectX 12 feature level support, so newer games such as Death Stranding and Elden Ring won't run properly on it.6
  • Owners say the card draws about 300 watts and needs a 650 W or larger power supply, and a 500 W unit was not enough for some.5
  • Owners report the card runs very hot, reaching about 90°C under load and throttling, and dust or old thermal paste makes it worse.5
  • Owners say overclocks above about 1125–1150 MHz core often crash or need extra voltage, and some cards only stay stable at lower clocks.4

Points mentioned by at least 3 owners, most mentioned first.

Loading category ranking...

Technical Specifications of graphics card NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780

Technical score
Technical score
4.2/ 10
✕
What it is
How good the specs are compared with the other models in this category, 1–10.
How we count it
Areas: We rate the specs in each area against the other models in this category.
Weighting: The areas that matter most to buyers count more. The shares are shown under Score components.
Share: The technical score is 40% of the overall score.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 92% of models
Score components:

44%

2.3

Performance

24%

3.9

Memory

12%

6.9

Power

11%

6.4

Features

5%

8.1

Design

4%

6.3

Connectivity

4.2
Reviews score
8.4
List score
?
Value for money
Value for money
6.8/ 10
✕
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 distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 82% of models
Score components:

70%

6.5

Overall score

30%

7.6

Price

6.8
3DMark Time Spy benchmark score
2,412 points
Market range: <4.1k points – >30.1k points
This graphics card scores 2,412 points in 3DMark Time Spy, which is lower than 94.3% of graphics cards.
3DMark Port Royal score
0 points
Market range: <0 points – >22.4k points
This graphics card scores 0 points in 3DMark Port Royal, which is lower than 83.1% of graphics cards and equal to 16.9% of graphics cards.
PassMark (G3D) result
7,947 points
Market range: <7.7k points – >36k points
This graphics card scores 7,947 points in PassMark G3D, which is lower than 88.8% of graphics cards.
PassMark (DirectCompute) result
3,315 points
Market range: <3.1k points – >26.3k points
This graphics card scores 3,315 points in PassMark DirectCompute, which is lower than 88.9% of graphics cards.
FP32 performance
4.16 TFLOPS
Market range: <3.94 TFLOPS – >56.3 TFLOPS
This graphics card delivers 4.16 TFLOPS FP32 performance, which is lower than that of 89.3% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.1% of graphics cards.
Show more
What reviewers say
VRAM
3 GB
Market range: <4 GB – >16 GB
This graphics card has 3 GB of VRAM, which is less than 93.7% of graphics cards and equal to 0.5% of graphics cards.
Memory type
GDDR5
This graphics card uses GDDR5 memory, which is older than on 85.4% of graphics cards and equal to 13.2% of graphics cards.
Memory bus width
384 bit
Market range: <128 bit – >384 bit
This graphics card uses a 384 bit memory bus, which is wider than that of 89.7% of graphics cards and equal to that of 7% of graphics cards.
Maximum memory bandwidth
288.4 GB/s
Market range: <168 GB/s – >960 GB/s
This graphics card reaches 288.4 GB/s memory bandwidth, which is lower than that of 69.8% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.1% of graphics cards.
Effective memory speed
6,008 MHz
Market range: <7k MHz – >28k MHz
This graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 6,008 MHz, which is slower than that of 93.6% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.9% of graphics cards.
Show more
What reviewers say
PCI Express (PCIe) version
3
This graphics card supports PCIe 3, which is older than on 77.6% of graphics cards and equal to 20.1% of graphics cards.
PCIe lanes
x16
This graphics card uses x16 PCIe lanes, which is more than 24.1% of graphics cards and equal to 75.9% of graphics cards.
DirectX version
12
This graphics card supports DirectX 12, which is older than on 81.8% of graphics cards and equal to 17% of graphics cards.
Vulkan version
1.2
This graphics card supports Vulkan 1.2, which is older than on 94.9% of graphics cards and equal to 3.9% of graphics cards.
OpenGL version
4.6
This graphics card supports OpenGL 4.6, which is more advanced than on 2% of graphics cards and equal to 98% of graphics cards.
Show more
Max displays supported
4
Market range: <4 – >4
This graphics card supports up to 4 displays, which is more than 9% of graphics cards and equal to 88.2% of graphics cards.
Max digital resolution
4096x2160
This graphics card supports a maximum digital resolution of 4096x2160, which is lower than that of 92.4% of graphics cards and equal to that of 4.6% of graphics cards.
DisplayPort outputs
1
Market range: <1 – >3
This graphics card offers 1 DisplayPort outputs, which is fewer than 88.1% of graphics cards and equal to 8.7% of graphics cards.
DisplayPort version
1.2
This graphics card supports DisplayPort 1.2, which is older than on 93.9% of graphics cards and equal to 5.1% of graphics cards.
DisplayPort link rates
21.6 Gbps
Market range: <5.4 Gbps – >80 Gbps
This graphics card supports DisplayPort link rates up to 21.6 Gbps, which is faster than on 49.7% of graphics cards and equal to 2% of graphics cards.
Show more
Thermal Design Power (TDP)
250 W
Market range: <86 W – >360 W
This graphics card has a TDP of 250 W, which is higher than that of 59.1% of graphics cards and equal to that of 6.3% of graphics cards.
Power consumption while under peak load
250 W
Market range: <106 W – >365 W
This graphics card draws 250 W under peak load, which is higher than 57.6% of graphics cards and equal to 4.8% of graphics cards.
Recommended PSU wattage
600 W
Market range: <450 W – >850 W
This graphics card recommends a 600 W PSU, which is lower than that of 53.2% of graphics cards and equal to that of 8.6% of graphics cards.
Board power limit
250 W
Market range: <107 W – >400 W
This graphics card has a board power limit of 250 W, which is higher than that of 56% of graphics cards and equal to that of 4.5% of graphics cards.
PCIe power spec
250 W
Show more
What reviewers say
Size
267x 111x 38 mm
Length
267 mm
Market range: <200 mm – >337 mm
This graphics card is 267 mm long, which is shorter than 59.3% of graphics cards and equal in length to 3.5% of graphics cards.
Height
111.15 mm
Market range: <109 mm – >146 mm
This graphics card is 111.15 mm tall, which is shorter than 81.1% of graphics cards and equal in height to 2.4% of graphics cards.
Slot width
2 slot/s
Market range: <2 slot/s – >3.25 slot/s
This graphics card occupies 2 slot/s, which is slimmer than 52.4% of graphics cards and equal in width to 43.4% of graphics cards.
Weight
1,400 g
Market range: <541 g – >2k g
This graphics card weighs 1,400 g, which is heavier than 70.1% of Graphics cards and equal to 0.7% of Graphics cards.
Show more
What reviewers say

NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 vs the average graphics card

246810TotalPerformanceMemoryFeaturesConnectivityPowerDesign
  • 192 bit wider memory bus
    This graphics card has a wider memory bus than the average graphics card (384 bit vs 192 bit). The average graphics card has a memory bus width of 192 bit.
    384 bit vs 192 bit
  • 16.7% higher review score
    Reviews score
    8.4/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
    How we count it
    Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves. Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
    Score: The average grade is 80% of the review mark; the number of reviews is the other 20% (1 review = 5, the typical number in this category = 8, the most-reviewed model = 10).
    Enough data: With few reviews, the average grade is pulled toward the typical grade of this category. No reviews yet: 7.6 for now.
    Share: Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    Score distribution
    ▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    ▲ Better than 85% of models

    80%

    8.1

    Average grade

    20%

    9.5

    Popularity

    Grades by review (42)
    30 reviews: 13 with a printed score, 17 estimated from the review. 12 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    User ratings collected online are not part of this score.
    8.4 vs 7.2
  • 13.85 mm lower card height
    This graphics card is shorter than the average graphics card (111.2 mm vs 125 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 125 mm.
    111.15 mm vs 125 mm
  • 0.5 slot/s slimmer design
    This graphics card occupies fewer slots than the average graphics card (2 slot/s vs 2.5 slot/s). The average graphics card occupies 2.5 slot/s.
    2 slot/s vs 2.5 slot/s
  • 3 more GPUs supported
    This graphics card supports more GPUs in multi-GPU mode than the average graphics card (3 vs 0). The average graphics card supports 0 GPUs in multi-GPU mode.
    3 vs 0
  • 2 more DVI outputs
    This graphics card has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (2 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
    2 vs 0
  • Supports NVLink
    This graphics card supports NVLink, the average graphics card does not.
  • Supports multi-GPU linking
    This graphics card supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
  • 16.7% higher review score
    Reviews score
    8.4/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
    How we count it
    Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves. Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
    Score: The average grade is 80% of the review mark; the number of reviews is the other 20% (1 review = 5, the typical number in this category = 8, the most-reviewed model = 10).
    Enough data: With few reviews, the average grade is pulled toward the typical grade of this category. No reviews yet: 7.6 for now.
    Share: Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    Score distribution
    ▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    ▲ Better than 85% of models

    80%

    8.1

    Average grade

    20%

    9.5

    Popularity

    Grades by review (42)
    30 reviews: 13 with a printed score, 17 estimated from the review. 12 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    User ratings collected online are not part of this score.
    8.4 vs 7.2
  • More FP64 throughput
    This graphics card has a better FP64 ratio than the average graphics card (1:24 vs 1:64).
    1:24 vs 1:64
  • 192 bit wider memory bus
    This graphics card has a wider memory bus than the average graphics card (384 bit vs 192 bit). The average graphics card has a memory bus width of 192 bit.
    384 bit vs 192 bit
  • 3 more GPUs supported
    This graphics card supports more GPUs in multi-GPU mode than the average graphics card (3 vs 0). The average graphics card supports 0 GPUs in multi-GPU mode.
    3 vs 0
  • Supports multi-GPU linking
    This graphics card supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
  • Supports NVLink
    This graphics card supports NVLink, the average graphics card does not.
  • 2 more DVI outputs
    This graphics card has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (2 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
    2 vs 0
  • 7.7% lower PSU requirement
    This graphics card 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
  • 13.85 mm lower card height
    This graphics card is shorter than the average graphics card (111.2 mm vs 125 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 125 mm.
    111.15 mm vs 125 mm
  • 0.5 slot/s slimmer design
    This graphics card occupies fewer slots than the average graphics card (2 slot/s vs 2.5 slot/s). The average graphics card occupies 2.5 slot/s.
    2 slot/s vs 2.5 slot/s
  • 64% lower boost clock speed
    This graphics card has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (902 MHz vs 2,505 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,505 MHz.
    902 MHz vs 2,505 MHz
  • 9 GB less VRAM
    This graphics card has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (3 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
    3 GB vs 12 GB
  • 40 fewer ray tracing cores
    This graphics card has fewer ray tracing cores than the average graphics card (0 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 ray tracing cores.
    0 vs 40
  • 28 fewer compute units
    This graphics card has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (12 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
    12 vs 40
  • 5.6x larger process node
    This graphics card uses a larger manufacturing process than the average graphics card (28 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a manufacturing process of 5 nm.
    28 nm vs 5 nm
  • 2 fewer fans
    This graphics card has fewer fans than the average graphics card (1 vs 3).
    1 vs 3
  • 55.1% lower base clock speed
    This graphics card has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (863 MHz vs 1920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1920 MHz.
    863 MHz vs 1,920 MHz
  • Less advanced frame generation
    This graphics card has less advanced frame generation than the average graphics card (no vs multi frame generation).
  • 9% worse value for money
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 has worse value for money than the average graphics card (6.8 vs 7.4).
    6.8 vs 7.41
  • 64% lower boost clock speed
    This graphics card has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (902 MHz vs 2,505 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,505 MHz.
    902 MHz vs 2,505 MHz
  • 40 fewer ray tracing cores
    This graphics card has fewer ray tracing cores than the average graphics card (0 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 ray tracing cores.
    0 vs 40
  • 28 fewer compute units
    This graphics card has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (12 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
    12 vs 40
  • 55.1% lower base clock speed
    This graphics card has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (863 MHz vs 1920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1920 MHz.
    863 MHz vs 1,920 MHz
  • 73.2% lower pixel rate
    This graphics card has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (43.3 GPixel/s vs 161.3 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 161.3 GPixel/s.
    43.3 GPixel/s vs 161.3 GPixel/s
  • 144 fewer AI cores
    This graphics card has fewer AI cores than the average graphics card (0 vs 144). The average graphics card has 144 AI cores.
    0 vs 144
  • 54.2% lower texture rate
    This graphics card has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (173.2 GTexel/s vs 378 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 378 GTexel/s.
    173.2 GTexel/s vs 378 GTexel/s
  • 81.6% lower FP32 performance
    This graphics card has a lower FP32 performance than the average graphics card (4.2 TFLOPS vs 22.6 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP32 performance of 22.6 TFLOPS.
    4.16 TFLOPS vs 22.6 TFLOPS
  • 10 years older
    This graphics card was released earlier than the average graphics card (2013 vs 2023).
    May 2013
    2013 vs 2023
  • 16 fewer ROPs
    This graphics card has fewer ROPs than the average graphics card (48 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.
    48 vs 64
  • 64.9% lower PassMark score
    This graphics card has a lower PassMark score than the average graphics card (7,947 points vs 22,638 points). The average graphics card has a PassMark score of 22,638 points.
    7,947 points vs 22,638 points
  • 83.7% lower gaming score
    This graphics card has a lower gaming score than the average graphics card (2,412 points vs 14,779 points). The average graphics card has a gaming score of 14,779 points.
    2,412 points vs 14,779 points
  • 72.5% lower compute score
    This graphics card has a lower compute score than the average graphics card (3,315 points vs 12,70.5 points). The average graphics card has a compute score of 12,070.5 points.
    3,315 points vs 12,070.5 points
  • 85.9% lower FP16 performance
    This graphics card has a lower FP16 performance than the average graphics card (4.2 TFLOPS vs 29.5 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP16 performance of 29.5 TFLOPS.
    4.16 TFLOPS vs 29.5 TFLOPS
  • 64.6% lower FP64 performance
    This graphics card has a lower FP64 performance than the average graphics card (0.2 TFLOPS vs 0.48 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP64 performance of 0.48 TFLOPS.
    0.17 TFLOPS vs 0.48 TFLOPS
  • 9 GB less VRAM
    This graphics card has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (3 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
    3 GB vs 12 GB
  • 68.4% slower memory speed
    This graphics card has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (6,008 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.
    6,008 MHz vs 19,000 MHz
  • 35.6% lower memory bandwidth
    This graphics card has a lower memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (288.4 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.
    288.4 GB/s vs 448 GB/s
  • 87.5% smaller L1 cache
    This graphics card has fewer L1 cache than the average graphics card (16 KB vs 128 KB). The average graphics card has 128 KB L1 cache.
    16 KB vs 128 KB
  • 14.2% slower VRAM clock
    This graphics card has a lower VRAM clock than the average graphics card (1,502 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
    1,502 MHz vs 1,750 MHz
  • 5.6x larger process node
    This graphics card uses a larger manufacturing process than the average graphics card (28 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a manufacturing process of 5 nm.
    28 nm vs 5 nm
  • Less advanced frame generation
    This graphics card has less advanced frame generation than the average graphics card (no vs multi frame generation).
  • No DLSS support
    This graphics card does not support DLSS, the average graphics card does.
  • No ray tracing
    This graphics card does not support ray tracing, the average graphics card does.
  • Older PCIe version
    This graphics card supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4).
    3 vs 4
  • No XeSS support
    This graphics card does not support XeSS, the average graphics card does.
  • No mesh shaders
    This graphics card does not support mesh shaders, the average graphics card does.
  • Older Vulkan version
    This graphics card supports an older Vulkan version than the average graphics card (1.2 vs 1.4).
    1.2 vs 1.4
  • No DirectStorage support
    This graphics card does not support DirectStorage, the average graphics card does.
  • No Resizable BAR
    This graphics card does not support Resizable BAR, while the average graphics card does. 76.4% of Graphics cards support it.
  • Older DirectX version
    This graphics card supports an older DirectX version than the average graphics card (12 vs 12 Ultimate).
    12 vs 12 Ultimate
  • Older shader model
    This graphics card supports an older shader model than the average graphics card (5 vs 6.8).
    5 vs 6.8
  • 90.8% larger GPU die
    This graphics card has a higher GPU die size than the average graphics card (561 mm² vs 294 mm²). The average graphics card has a GPU die size of 294 mm².
    561 mm² vs 294 mm²
  • No sampler feedback
    This graphics card does not support sampler feedback, the average graphics card does.
  • Older FSR version
    This graphics card supports an older FSR version than the average graphics card (1 vs 3.1).
    1 vs 3.1
  • 69% fewer transistors
    This graphics card has fewer transistors than the average graphics card (7,100 million vs 22,900 million). The average graphics card has 22,900 million transistors.
    7,100 million vs 22,900 million
  • Older HDMI version
    This graphics card supports an older HDMI version than the average graphics card (1.4a vs 2.1a).
    1.4a vs 2.1a
  • 2 fewer DisplayPort outputs
    This graphics card has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 3). The average graphics card has 3 DisplayPort outputs.
    1 vs 3
  • No AV1 encoding
    This graphics card does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No AV1 decoding
    This graphics card does not support AV1 decoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No DSC support
    This graphics card does not support DSC, the average graphics card does.
  • No VRR support
    This graphics card does not support VRR, the average graphics card does.
  • More basic codec support
    This graphics card encodes more basic formats than the average graphics card (H.264 vs H.264/H.265/AV1/VP9).
    H.264 vs H.264/H.265/AV1/VP9
  • Older DisplayPort version
    This graphics card supports an older DisplayPort version than the average graphics card (1.2 vs 1.4a).
    1.2 vs 1.4a
  • Older HDCP version
    This graphics card supports an older HDCP version than the average graphics card (1.4 vs 2.3).
    1.4 vs 2.3
  • Older NVDEC generation
    This graphics card has a lower NVDEC generation than the average graphics card (1 vs 6). The average graphics card offers NVDEC generation 6.
    1 vs 6
  • Lower display resolution
    This graphics card supports a lower maximum digital resolution than the average graphics card (4096x2160 vs 7680x4320). The average graphics card supports a maximum digital resolution of 7680x4320.
    4096x2160 vs 7680x4320
  • Not VR ready
    This graphics card is not VR ready, while the average graphics card is.
  • 2 fewer monitors per output type
    This graphics card supports fewer monitors per output type than the average graphics card (1 vs 3). The average graphics card supports 3 monitors per output type.
    1 vs 3
  • 2 fewer fans
    This graphics card has fewer fans than the average graphics card (1 vs 3).
    1 vs 3
  • No fan stop
    This graphics card does not support fan stop, the average graphics card does.
  • 16.3% higher TDP
    This graphics card has a higher TDP than the average graphics card (250 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
    250 W vs 215 W
  • 14 °C higher load temperature
    This graphics card has a higher load temperature than the average graphics card (81 °C vs 67 °C). The average graphics card has a load temperature of 67 °C.
    81 °C vs 67 °C
  • 29 dB noisier at idle
    This graphics card has a higher idle noise level than the average graphics card (29 dB vs 0 dB). The average graphics card has an idle noise level of 0 dB.
    29 dB vs 0 dB
  • 4.6 dB noisier under load
    This graphics card has a higher load noise level than the average graphics card (40 dB vs 35.4 dB). The average graphics card has a load noise level of 35.4 dB.
    40 dB vs 35.4 dB
  • 13.6% higher board power limit
    This graphics card has a higher board power limit than the average graphics card (250 W vs 220 W). The average graphics card has a board power limit of 220 W.
    250 W vs 220 W
  • No backplate
    This graphics card does not include a backplate, the average graphics card does.
  • No RGB lighting
    This graphics card does not include RGB lighting, the average graphics card does.
  • 38.1% heavier
    This graphics card is heavier than the average graphics card (1,400 g vs 1,014 g). The average graphics card weighs 1,014 g.
    1,400 g vs 1,014 g

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

8.0
DanielC
≈ estimated
17/01/2025
Hands-on benchmark · 10 games and cooling checks
Verdict
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 is fine for older games and makes a cheap backup card, but its VRAM limits newer titles.
4.0
ProYamYamPC
≈ estimated
20/08/2024
Hands-on test · 1080p benchmarks and card failure
Verdict
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 is not recommended in 2024, since Kepler cards are too old and unreliable.
8.0
DanielC
≈ estimated
07/06/2024
Hands-on benchmark · game tests and repair story
Verdict
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 is a decent older card, worth buying only if cheap and fitted with a bigger fan.
8.0
ImWateringPSUs
≈ estimated
03/04/2024
Long-term retest · BIOS mod, overclock and game tests
Verdict
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 is recommended for very low-end 1080p gaming, but only with a BIOS mod, repaste and patience.
6.0
Technology Hive
≈ estimated
20/01/2024
Hands-on review · game tests on a 10-year-old card
Verdict
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 can hold you over at low settings until an upgrade, though several modern games will not launch.
7.0
Elijahs Lab
≈ estimated
13/03/2021
Benchmark review · game tests and cooling check
Verdict
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 is a decent placeholder if you already own one, but not worth paying scalper prices on eBay.
9.0
Linus Tech Tips
≈ estimated
23/05/2013
Performance review · 1440p benchmarks against rivals
Verdict
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 is the best GTX-series card you can buy, offering near-Titan performance for less than the Titan.
9.5
Linus Tech Tips
≈ estimated
23/05/2013
Hands-on review · 1080p benchmarks and overclocking
Verdict
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 offers near-Titan performance for much less money, making it the best single-card pick.
9.5
OC3D TV
≈ estimated
23/05/2013
Full review · benchmarks, gameplay and Titan comparison
Verdict
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 is the most sensible single-GPU buy, far better value than the Titan, and an easy recommendation.
9.0
HiTechLegion
≈ estimated
23/05/2013
Hands-on review · performance, temperature and overclock tests
Verdict
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 is a worthwhile upgrade for owners of older cards, though the price is high.
8.0
GhostRobo
≈ estimated
02/06/2013
First look · unboxing and game tests with recording
Verdict
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 is a big upgrade over the old card, though pricey, and expected to last a while.
Not graded

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

7.0
tomshardware.com
≈ estimated
23/05/2013
Lab test · Architecture breakdown
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 is a trimmed GK110 that matches the Titan's memory bandwidth and boost clock, making it a strong gaming card with limited double-precision compute.
10
techpowerup.com
✓ explicit
23/05/2013
Launch overview · Titan-class card
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 is nearly identical to the Titan in build and cooling, with fewer cores and half the memory, suiting buyers who mainly want a gaming card.
8.0
techradar.com
✓ explicit
29/05/2013
Performance review · Titan alternative
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 is a gaming-only Titan alternative that stays within about 10% of Titan, though it is not the fastest Nvidia card.
8.0
digitalfoundry.net
≈ estimated
01/06/2013
Benchmark review · Titan comparison
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 gets most of Titan's frame rates, within a few fps at 1080p, but it is too slow for 4K at the highest settings.
8.0
uk.pcmag.com
≈ estimated
16/05/2014
Lab test · 1080p gaming
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 is a 1080p gaming card that keeps most of Titan's speed, but it lacks Titan's double-precision math and loses some games to the Radeon HD 7970.
8.0
techpowerup.com
✓ explicit
23/05/2013
Multi-GPU review · SLI scaling
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 in 2-card SLI suits gamers building a dual-card PC, with results limited to reference-clock models.
9.0
techgage.com
≈ estimated
23/05/2013
Feature review · Titan-based design
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 keeps Titan's cooler and runs up to 70% faster than the GTX 680 in some games, though it has fewer cores and half the memory.
7.0
vortez.net
≈ estimated
22/05/2013
Feature review · GPU Boost 2.0
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 suits overclockers who accept the wear risk of overvoltage, with Titan's cooler and a boost clock that rises with temperature.
8.0
uk.pcmag.com
✓ explicit
16/07/2014
Benchmark review · 1080p gaming
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 delivers most of the Titan's 1080p speed, suiting gamers who don't need the Titan's double-precision math for professional work.
8.0
guru3d.com
≈ estimated
23/05/2013
Review · Power and overclocking
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 is a Titan-based card with 3GB of memory that reaches about 1150MHz after tweaking, though its power use is not great.
8.0
pcmag.com
✓ explicit
23/05/2013
Benchmark review · Titan alternative
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 gives most of Titan's gaming speed at 1080p, but it lacks Titan's double-precision math, so it suits gamers rather than rendering work.
8.5
techspot.com
✓ explicit
23/05/2013
Review · Cooling and boost design
Verdict
The Nvidia GeForce GTX 780 brings Titan-style cooling and 2304 CUDA cores, a big step up from the GTX 680, but Nvidia recommends a 600 W power supply.
overclockers.com
23/05/2013
Not graded yet
6.0
lesnumeriques.com
✓ explicit
10/08/2016
Lab test · Reference design
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 is a near-Titan gaming card, about 7% behind at full HD, that is nearly silent at idle but draws more power under load.
8.0
tomshardware.fr
≈ estimated
23/05/2013
Lab test · SLI scaling
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 scales well in SLI for Far Cry 3 and Crysis 3, but it draws over 400 watts under load and gains little in Skyrim.
8.0
lesnumeriques.com
✓ explicit
13/10/2014
Lab test · Custom cooler
Verdict
The Asus GTX 780 DirectCU II OC is quiet and well cooled, but its cooler vents hot air into the case, so it needs good airflow.
8.0
lesnumeriques.com
✓ explicit
13/10/2014
Lab test · Three-fan cooler
Verdict
The PNY GeForce GTX 780 XLR8 OC is one of the faster GTX 780 cards, about 8% quicker in games, and stays very quiet at idle.
8.0
hardware.fr
≈ estimated
23/05/2013
Lab test · GK110 design
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 is a quiet, high-end Titan-based card for gaming, but it lacks DirectX 11.1 and full double-precision compute.
8.0
clubic.com
≈ estimated
23/05/2013
Lab test · Overclocking and power
Verdict
The GeForce GTX 780 is a quiet, well-built card with near-Titan gaming speed and good overclocking headroom, but it pushes the whole PC past 400 watts under load.
8.0
lesnumeriques.com
✓ explicit
13/10/2014
Lab test · Overclocked model
Verdict
The Zotac GeForce GTX 780 Amp! Edition reaches GTX Titan speed in tested games thanks to its factory overclock, but it is noticeably louder than the reference card.

Third-party reviews

What customers like about NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780

  • High performance for its era, delivering nearly 90% of the flagship GTX Titan's power at a significantly lower price point.
  • Excellent acoustic design; the reference cooler is widely praised for being exceptionally quiet and steady even under load.
  • Strong overclocking potential, with many users able to match stock Titan performance levels with minor adjustments.
  • Solid 1080p performance even in modern esports titles like Fortnite and Counter-Strike 2, provided settings are adjusted.
  • High-quality industrial build and aesthetic, featuring a premium aluminum shroud and illuminated logo.

What customers don't like about NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780

  • Limited 3GB VRAM capacity, which struggles with modern high-resolution textures and open-world titles.
  • High initial launch price, which felt steep for many 'second-tier' enthusiasts at the time.
  • Poor long-term driver support for the Kepler architecture, resulting in diminished performance in newer DirectX 12 and Vulkan titles compared to AMD equivalents.
  • High power consumption requirements, necessitating at least a 600W power supply and causing potential issues with older or weaker PSUs.
  • Lack of support for modern features like DLSS or hardware-accelerated Ray Tracing, which are standard in newer generations.

Verdict

The Nvidia GeForce GTX 780 is a high-end graphics card built on the 28nm Kepler architecture, featuring 2,304 CUDA cores, 3GB of GDDR5 memory, and a wide 384-bit memory interface. It operates with a base clock of 863 MHz and a boost clock of 902 MHz, delivering a significant performance leap over its predecessor by offering nearly 90% of the original GTX Titan's power at a more accessible price point. Its main pros include exceptional 1080p gaming performance for its era, a premium quiet-running aluminum cooler, and advanced features like GPU Boost 2.0. However, its high power consumption of 250W TDP, limited 3GB VRAM for modern high-resolution textures, and lack of full DirectX 12 feature level support are notable cons in contemporary gaming contexts.

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