Should I Buy an Nvidia RTX3080 or Wait for AMD’s New Cards? A Comprehensive Guide
When considering whether to purchase the Nvidia RTX3080 or to wait for AMD's upcoming cards, you must weigh various factors including current availability, technological advancements, and personal requirements. This guide aims to provide clarity and help you make an informed decision.
Current Market Scenario and Availability
The most immediate challenge is the availability of the RTX3080 at market price (MSRP). As of now, finding a RTX3080 at the recommended retail price is challenging, if not impossible. Instead, sellers are offering them at scalper prices, making it difficult for consumers to secure a card within a reasonable budget. Additionally, the recent surge in cryptocurrency mining has further compounded the issue, as miners are apt to scoop up any RTX3080 before they reach the consumer market. This means you might be forced to wait for an extended period to purchase one of these cards.
Comparing Nvidia RTX3080 vs. Potential AMD Future Cards
The AMD cards, especially the upcoming RX 6900, are expected to offer competitive performance, but not necessarily superior to the RTX3080. According to AMD's own benchmarks, the RX 6900 is estimated to sit between an RTX 3070 and 3080. Thus, Nvidia appears to maintain its performance leadership for at least another generation.
Nvidia's Performance Leadership
The future RX 6900 is benchmarked to have performance roughly equivalent to an RTX 3070 or 3080. However, if you require the highest performance today, waiting is not a viable option. The chances of securing a RTX3080 within the next few months are slim, hence you might as well wait for AMD's new cards. Once the new cards are released, you can analyze their real-world performance and make a decision based on your specific needs and budget.
DLSS Technology and Its Impact
One crucial factor to consider is the absence of the DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) technology on AMD cards. While AMD is working on developing DLSS, its future integration into Radeon Super Resolution is uncertain. Until this feature becomes readily available and effective, it significantly impacts the competitiveness of AMD cards against Nvidia, especially for gamers.
Personal Experience and Expert Advice
Based on personal experience, sticking with Nvidia even if it means a longer wait, remains a viable option. Nvidia's cards typically offer more flexibility for non-gaming uses, and their driver support is generally superior. However, for pure gaming builds, sticking with AMD’s upcoming cards may be a safer bet. Nvidia's clear advantage in non-gaming tasks often makes the RTX3080 a more versatile choice.
Wait for Independent Benchmarks
It's always advisable to wait for independent benchmark tests before making a purchase decision based solely on manufacturer's benchmarks. Without real-world data, it's challenging to make an informed choice. If you're looking to upgrade before the new year, AMD's upcoming cards, especially the RX 6900, might offer a tempting alternative.
Ultimately, the decision between Nvidia RTX3080 and waiting for AMD’s new cards depends on your priorities, budget, and specific needs. Consider the availability, performance, and technological features before making a final decision.