I'm trying to decide between getting the new GPU models: the 5080 or the 5090. Normally, I upgrade every three generations and stick with the 70 series, having previously owned a 3070ti and a 1070. But the jump from 16GB to 32GB of VRAM is significant, and I'm starting to feel like it's time to upgrade as my current GPU struggles with modern games. My birthday is coming up, so I'm considering this upgrade seriously. Should I go for the 5090 and invest in the extra VRAM, or is it better to wait for prices to drop and settle for a 5070 or 5080? I usually don't invest heavily in GPUs, but I'm not exactly broke either.
5 Answers
If you're gaming at 1440p, I really don't see a reason to invest in a 5090. The performance might not be worth the extra cash unless you really don't mind spending a chunk of change.
Are you ready to drop around $3,000 on a GPU? If the prices for the 5090 average around $1900, you might want to think about whether the extra VRAM is worth it. On the other hand, the 5080 and 5070ti are much cheaper at about $999, which could be a better deal if you're not aiming for the absolute top.
The missing 24GB of RAM on the 5080 is a letdown, but honestly, the 5090 offers better long-term value, especially if you want to future-proof your setup for the next few generations. Just keep in mind how much power these things draw, and make sure your PSU can handle it.
If you're coming from the 30 series, a 5070ti is more than enough power for gaming. I jumped from a 3080ti and was able to run 4K at 130 FPS in some titles. Plus, at $750, it's a solid deal compared to the much pricier 5080/5090.
Honestly, the 5090 might be the only one worth it performance-wise but the prices are outrageous. If you need a GPU right now, go for the 5070ti or 5080. Prices aren't coming down anytime soon, so you might regret waiting too long.
You're right; waiting for prices to stabilize before making a purchase could be a good strategy. The jump to 32GB is huge, but it may not be necessary unless you're pushing your games to the max.