RTX 4090 vs RTX 4080: The Ultimate Performance Showdown (2025)
Choosing between the RTX 4090 and RTX 4080? Both are powerhouse GPUs, but they serve different needs and budgets. We've tested both cards extensively to help you make the right choice for your setup and wallet.
RTX 4090: The Beast
- • 24GB GDDR6X VRAM
- • 83 RT Cores, 128 Tensor Cores
- • Base Clock: 2230 MHz
- • Memory Bandwidth: 1008 GB/s
- • TDP: 450W
- • MSRP: £1,679
RTX 4080: The Sweet Spot
- • 16GB GDDR6X VRAM
- • 76 RT Cores, 128 Tensor Cores
- • Base Clock: 2205 MHz
- • Memory Bandwidth: 717 GB/s
- • TDP: 320W
- • MSRP: £1,199
Performance Benchmarks
4K Gaming Performance
At 4K resolution, the RTX 4090 consistently delivers 15-25% better performance than the RTX 4080. However, both cards excel at this resolution with modern games.
Average 4K FPS (Ultra Settings)
1440p Gaming Performance
Both cards are absolutely overkill for 1440p gaming, but if you want maximum frame rates for competitive gaming or high refresh rate monitors, here's how they compare.
Average 1440p FPS (Ultra Settings)
Value Analysis
Choose RTX 4090 If:
- • You game primarily at 4K
- • You do heavy content creation/AI work
- • You want maximum future-proofing
- • Budget isn't your primary concern
- • You have a 1000W+ PSU
Choose RTX 4080 If:
- • You primarily game at 1440p
- • You want excellent 4K with some compromises
- • You prefer better price-to-performance
- • You have a 750W-850W PSU
- • £480 savings matters to you
Power Consumption & Thermals
The RTX 4090's 450W TDP vs the RTX 4080's 320W makes a significant difference in system requirements and running costs.
Power Requirements
- RTX 4090: 850W+ PSU recommended (1000W+ for overclocking)
- RTX 4080: 750W+ PSU sufficient (850W+ for overclocking)
- Annual electricity cost difference: ~£45-65 (8 hours daily gaming)
Final Verdict
RTX 4090 is the undisputed 4K gaming champion and content creation powerhouse. If you have the budget and PSU headroom, it's the best GPU money can buy.
RTX 4080 offers 85-90% of the 4090's performance at 71% of the price. For most gamers, especially those at 1440p, it's the smarter choice.
Our Recommendation
RTX 4080 for most users. The performance difference rarely justifies the £480 premium unless you specifically need 4K Ultra in the most demanding games or do professional content creation.
Ready to Upgrade?
Find both GPUs at competitive prices on our marketplace. We verify all sellers and provide buyer protection for peace of mind.
Browse Graphics Cards