Conclusion
Performance-wise, the difference between GeForce RTX 2080 cards is destined to be small. At the most, expect a few percentage points to separate them, even as their prices vary wildly. Quality and value-added features are another matter entirely, though.
Gigabyte's GeForce RTX 2080 Gaming OC 8G isn't the sturdiest-feeling board. It lacks the base plate found on heavier cards like Nvidia's GeForce RTX 2080 Founders Edition and Zotac's Gaming GeForce RTX 2080 AMP. As a result, the backplate has some flex to it and the three-slot fin array bends a bit at the edges. Copious plastic isn't an issue for us, but when Nvidia's own RTX 2080 employs a sleek, metal chassis for less money, we lean in the direction of better build quality, for sure.
At the same time, we like that Gigabyte's warranty can be extended to four years through online registration, whereas Nvidia's coverage only lasts three years. Gigabyte also offers a semi-passive fan mode for gamers who don't mind higher idle temperatures in exchange for silent running. RGB Fusion could help you match the GeForce RTX 2080 Gaming OC 8G's lighting to other components inside of a windowed case, and LED indicators for the auxiliary power connectors help with troubleshooting.
Apparently, inventories of GeForce GTX 1080 Ti cards are pretty much exhausted. It no longer matters that they were selling for $700 while the RTX 2080s commanded a hefty premium. From here on out, Nvidia's Turing-based cards rule the high-end market uncontested.
Fortunately, GeForce RTX 2080 cards are down to more palatable prices. As of this writing, they dip as low as $750 (£585 in UK). And it's the Gigabyte GeForce RTX 2080 Gaming OC 8G that sets the pricing floor in both countries.
Although we prefer the build quality of Nvidia's Founders Edition model, enthusiasts looking to save some money are well-served by third-party cards offering unique cooling, similar performance, and aesthetic enhancements like RGB lighting. The GeForce RTX 2080 Gaming OC 8G is one such example, and we're happy to revise our original opinion based on an $80-cheaper price tag. Gigabyte's warranty, RGB lighting and quiet fans make it worthy of serious consideration.
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