Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce RTX 2080 (NVIDIA, 2018) and GeForce GTX 1080 Ti (NVIDIA, 2017) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: RTX 2080 is about 6.9% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM GTX 1080 Ti（11GB） has the advantage. For gaming, prioritize performance score and CPU compatibility; for AI, prioritize VRAM.
Relative performance score (higher is faster). Actual fps varies by resolution, game, and CPU configuration.
| Item | RTX 2080 | GTX 1080 Ti |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 15,500 | 14,500 |
| VRAM | 8GB | 11GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | RTX 20 | GTX 10 |
| Release Year | 2018 | 2017 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Ryzen 5 2600 | Ryzen 7 1700X |
These generative AI models can run on only one GPU because of the VRAM difference (Stable Diffusion, Flux, LLMs, and others).
— None (all models that run on GTX 1080 Ti also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | RTX 2080 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 1080 Ti |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 1080 Ti (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RTX 2080 is about 6.9% higher by score (RTX 2080: 15500 points / GTX 1080 Ti: 14500 points). Actual fps also varies by resolution, game, and CPU, so price is a reasonable deciding factor when the gap is only a few percent.
RTX 2080 has 8GB of VRAM, while GTX 1080 Ti has 11GB; GTX 1080 Ti has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, Ryzen 5 2600 pairs well with RTX 2080 and Ryzen 7 1700X with GTX 1080 Ti (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
