The highest-end model of RTX 5080 has just arrived at ArsenalPC! At first glance, we were a bit skeptical about this GPU - is it really worth the extra cost? Is it all just for show, or is there more at the core of this GPU that makes it worth the premium price?
Pictured above: the ASUS ROG Astral GeForce RTX 5080 Dhabab CORE Edition
Well, after having our expert ArsenalPC technicians dig a little deeper, it turns out there are some real benefits to this GPU’s design beyond its obvious aesthetic touches. It’s true, the gold plating is an incredibly opulent touch, but once you dig a little deeper, you find at its core, this really is a premium, high-end model for other reasons too, such as:
- ASUS ROG’s first quad-fan design - the third fan is a push-pull setup - coupled with a patented vapor chamber custom designed by ASUS
- Increased heatsink fin density over other ASUS models
- Stock phase-change thermal pad comes installed right from the factory on the RTX 5080 die
- Considerably higher clock speeds than other models, and hefty power delivery
This got us thinking. How many people out there are really interested in a top-tier model of GPU? While it’s true that a base model will still have the same GPU die at its core and still have the same amount of VRAM, some of the features such as the number of display outputs, operating temperature, clock speed under full load, noise, and aesthetics will be totally different among individual AIB partner cards. Which of the following best describes your GPU purchasing habits?
- My GPU purchases tend to be used, clearance, or open-box. As cheap as I can get!
- I’d only purchase a GPU that’s pretty much right at the Founder’s MSRP.
- I’m willing to spend a little more for better aesthetics or cooling, within reason.
- I’d get a really high-end model for the features, especially since I tend to keep my GPUs for a long time.
Have you ever purchased a really high-end premium GPU model? What swayed your purchasing decision? Let us know in the comments below!
Interested in a custom, high-end gaming PC tailor-made to your specifications? Browse our extensive selection of premium high-end PC systems and more here, at ArsenalPC’s store page on Newegg!