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My impressions of the EVGA GTX 1080 FTW 8GB GDDR5X RGB Graphics Card (2024)
Introduction
I recently upgraded my graphics card to EVGA GeForce GTX 1080 FTW GAMING ACX 3.0. This new GPU has quite improved my gaming - more on this below.
Specifications
| Property | Value | Property | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphics Coprocessor | Nvidia GeForce | Brand | EVGA |
| Graphics Ram Size | 8 GB | GPU Clock Speed | 1607 MHz |
| Graphics Processor Manufacturer | NVIDIA |
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Prices
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Outstanding Performance
The moment I installed the EVGA GeForce GTX 1080 FTW GAMING ACX 3.0, the advancement in performance compared to my previous cards was nothing short of impressive. Here’s a quick rundown of what stood out:
Real Base Clock: 1721 MHz
Boost Clock: Up to 1860 MHz
Memory Detail: 8192MB GDDR5X
I’ve pushed this card through various gaming scenarios – from AAA titles to more casual indie games – and it’s handled everything with ease. The uncompromised graphics performance in games like Shadow Warrior 2 and Arma 3 demonstrate its exceptionally reliable rendering capabilities. When it comes to VR, the GTX 1080 brings the immersive experience to life without breaking a sweat. I’ve explored virtual worlds without worrying about frame drops or immersion-breaking stutters.
However, it’s not without its minor issues. I noticed, for example, the card tends to run a bit warm under load, reaching about 70-75 Celsius. Though, with some fan curve adjustments via EVGA’s Precision X OC software, temperatures dropped significantly, which is a testament to the card’s adaptability.
Another point worth mentioning is the RGB LED customizations that added a fun, personal touch to my rig. It’s a small joy but quite satisfying for any user who loves to personalize their setup. But remember, you’ll need to download additional software to tweak these lighting effects.
On the downside, there is one aspect to consider - the fan noise. At lower temperatures, the card is silent as the fans don’t even spin, but when under heavy load and fans are at 100%, things can get a little noisy. It’s not a deal-breaker by any means, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind if you favor a quiet workspace.
While the card is certainly on the pricier side, it’s hard to argue with the quality you get for the expense. The GTX 1080’s performance leap is indeed substantial – a fact that’s hard to overlook. Just be aware of the inflated prices due to market demands, especially if there are newer generations available or upcoming.
In summary, from a first-hand perspective:
Excellent gaming and VR performance
Effective cooling with fan adjustments
RGB LED customization is a fun perk
Can be noisier under heavy loads
Price point might be high given market fluctuations
The EVGA GTX 1080 FTW is an absolute powerhouse that’s worth the investment for any serious gamer or content creator. Despite the minor drawbacks regarding temperatures and potential noise levels, the outstanding performance it offers is truly commendable. It’s provided me with smooth gameplay, stunning visuals, and reliability – all attributes that I consider non-negotiable for a premium gaming experience.
Cooling Efficiency
When it comes to cooling efficiency, the EVGA GTX 1080 FTW with its ACX 3.0 technology truly stands out. I scrutinized this particular aspect because a cool GPU not only performs better but also lasts longer, which is vital for any long-term investment in PC gaming. Here are my observations:
Heat Dissipation: The ACX 3.0 cooling system is well crafted, incorporating a dense array of fins and multiple heat pipes that efficiently draw heat away from the GPU core.
Fan Design: The swept fan blades work in concert with double ball bearings, providing a smooth and reliable air flow. What’s impressive is their ability to move a considerable amount of air while still remaining quiet.
Idle Operation: The card remains remarkably cool during idle periods, thanks to the zero fan-speed mode which kicks in below 60 Celsius, significantly reducing noise levels when the system isn’t under heavy load.
Despite these positives, there are a couple of minor drawbacks. For starters, I noticed that the default fan curve allowed for higher idle temperatures than I’m comfortable with. However, this was easily rectified with a custom fan curve via EVGA’s Precision XOC software. Additionally, while the fans are quiet, they’re not entirely inaudible when they ramp up under load, especially if you’re aiming for ultra-cool temperatures.
Another feature that deserves mention is the RGB LED customization. While not directly related to cooling, the ability to control the aesthetics of your PC along with monitoring your GPU’s temps and adjusting fan speeds in real-time is quite handy.
The twin fans definitely do their job, especially when put to the test with graphically intensive games. During a marathon session of Shadow Warrior 2 and Dying Light, the GPU barely broke a sweat, maintaining a consistent performance without any thermal throttling, credit to the SHP 2.0 improvements that include increased heat pipes and copper contact area.
From a personal standpoint, I appreciate a design that focuses on longevity and maintains quiet operation. EVGA understood that balance by enhancing the ACX 3.0 coolers with features that are not overbearing. The brushed metal and sturdy plastic gives the impression that the cooling unit can handle years of gaming without trouble.
My EVGA GTX 1080 FTW experiences can attest to the GPU’s merit; it’s a peace of mind knowing that my system stays cool under pressure, thus preserving my hardware’s longevity and quieting any concerns over potential overheating. It’s clear that EVGA didn’t skimp on the details, ensuring that gamers can immerse themselves without distraction from their hardware heating up the room - at least that’s less of a problem than with previous generations I’ve owned.
Top-Notch Build Quality
When I first got my hands on the EVGA GTX 1080 FTW, the build quality immediately struck me. It’s evident that EVGA didn’t cut corners when assembling this graphics unit. Here’s what stood out to me:
Sturdiness: The card feels robust and well-crafted. The rigidity of the card is reassuring when you’re installing it, giving off a sense of durability.
Materials: The heatsink piqued my interest due to its high-quality aluminum and copper components. These are materials you’d want for efficient heat dispersion.
Backplate: The sleek backplate isn’t just for aesthetics; it helps in card rigidity and potentially in heat dissipation.
Appearance: Aesthetically, this card is a showpiece. The RGB LEDs are bright and customizable, which is a nice perk for my setup.
Fan design: The double ball-bearing fans on this model are designed for longevity, which is crucial for extensive gaming sessions.
Despite its sturdy build, the card has a significant weight to it, which could cause sagging in some motherboards. This could possibly necessitate a support bracket for peace of mind, especially in a vertical mount situation.
I also appreciated the double BIOS feature for extra safety against failed overclocking attempts. However, a minor gripe on my part is the screw size on the backplate. They’re quite small and there’s a risk of stripping them if not careful. So, if you’re planning to tinker with it or install a water block, a precision screwdriver and a cautious hand are necessary.
Another point worth noting is the LED customization — while the RGB options are great, users with specific aesthetic preferences might find the white LEDs limiting. This hasn’t detracted from my experience, but it’s something that might bother other users looking for a fully customizable color scheme.
The EVGA GTX 1080 FTW hit all the right notes for me, from its strong thermal performance to how it enhances the visual appeal of my system. But the reliability and quality of the materials used in the card’s build are what seal the deal. For me, knowing that the card is constructed to last makes it worth the investment, even with a few minor setbacks like the potential motherboard sagging and the subtleties of LED customization. It’s these little details that tell me EVGA takes pride in their products, and it makes me confident in my purchase.
Customer Service Excellence
In the world of high-end graphics cards, the EVGA GTX 1080 FTW stands out — not only for its performance but also for the exceptional customer service. Here’s my take:
Customer Service Excellence
From the outset, EVGA’s attention to customer satisfaction really shone through. The card’s double BIOS feature is a safety net I appreciate; it’s reassuring to know that if a software issue arises, particularly during overclocking, I have a backup at the flick of a switch. Having a user manual readily available is also invaluable for quick reference, and it speaks volumes that EVGA considers the customer’s ease from installation to operation.
Moreover, the 24/7 customer support has been nothing short of outstanding. Every call was a pleasant interaction with knowledgeable staff providing helpful advice on any query. The minimal waiting times and clarity of communication certainly make life easier. After registering the product, the VIP service further streamlined support, exemplifying EVGA’s customer-first approach.
Here’s a quick rundown of my experience with their service:
Ease of Access to Information: No runarounds, all my queries were dealt with efficiently.
Responsive Customer Support: Quick and helpful responses, at any hour.
Quality Assurance: Assurance of a swift resolution if problems occur.
The only hiccup I encountered was the missing software CD in the package; however, downloading the necessary drivers from the EVGA website was a breeze. Although it didn’t impact my experience significantly, including the CD would have added to an already impressive package.
The packaging itself, which might seem a minor detail to some, further illustrates EVGA’s commitment to quality. The GPU was secured meticulously, conveying a sense of care that extends beyond just the product, ensuring that it arrives in pristine condition.
All things considered, the few drawbacks — such as the missing software CD and the inability to change the LED color on this particular card — were minor and easily overshadowed by the positives. The 24/7 support, coupled with the thorough documentation and discernible build quality of the packaging, solidified my confidence in my purchase. In an era where customer service can often be a frustrating ordeal, EVGA stands out for the right reasons, making their GTX 1080 FTW not just a powerful piece of hardware, but a purchase backed by a promise of excellence. I’d recommend EVGA to anyone who values peace of mind and aftercare as highly as product performance.