The GeForce GTX 980M is a high-performance graphics processing unit (GPU) designed by NVIDIA, specifically for laptops. Released in 2014, it was one of the most powerful mobile GPUs at the time, offering exceptional gaming performance. However, with the rapid advancement of technology, the question on many gamers’ minds is: is the GeForce GTX 980M still good for gaming? In this article, we will delve into the details of the GTX 980M, its performance, and whether it remains a viable option for gamers.
Introduction to GeForce GTX 980M
The GeForce GTX 980M is based on the Maxwell architecture, which was a significant improvement over its predecessor, the Kepler architecture. It features 1536 CUDA cores, 128-bit memory bus, and 4GB or 8GB of GDDR5 memory. The GPU operates at a base clock speed of 1038 MHz and can boost up to 1126 MHz. These specifications made the GTX 980M a powerhouse for gaming laptops, capable of handling demanding games at high settings.
Performance Overview
The performance of the GeForce GTX 980M is impressive, considering its age. It can handle most modern games at medium to high settings, depending on the resolution and game requirements. For example, games like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt can run at around 40-50 FPS at 1080p resolution with medium to high graphics settings. However, more demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare may require lower graphics settings to achieve smooth frame rates.
Comparison with Modern GPUs
Compared to modern GPUs, the GeForce GTX 980M is significantly outdated. The latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 series and AMD Radeon RX 6000M series offer much better performance, power efficiency, and features like ray tracing, artificial intelligence-enhanced graphics, and variable rate shading. However, the GTX 980M still holds its ground against some of the lower-end modern GPUs, making it a viable option for those on a budget or with less demanding gaming needs.
Gaming Performance at Different Resolutions
The gaming performance of the GeForce GTX 980M varies depending on the resolution. At 1080p (1920×1080), the GTX 980M can handle most games at high settings, with frame rates ranging from 40-60 FPS. At 1440p (2560×1440), the performance drops, and games may require medium to low graphics settings to achieve smooth frame rates. At 4K (3840×2160), the GTX 980M struggles, and games may need to be played at low settings or with significant compromises in graphics quality.
Power Consumption and Thermals
The GeForce GTX 980M has a typical board power of around 125W, which is relatively high compared to modern GPUs. This can lead to increased power consumption, heat generation, and noise levels in laptops. However, many modern laptops are designed to handle the thermal and power requirements of the GTX 980M, and some even offer advanced cooling systems to keep the GPU at optimal temperatures.
Conclusion and Recommendations
In conclusion, the GeForce GTX 980M is still a capable GPU for gaming, but its age and limitations are evident. While it can handle most games at medium to high settings, it may struggle with more demanding titles or at higher resolutions. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or have less demanding gaming needs, the GTX 980M can still provide a good gaming experience. However, if you’re looking for the latest and greatest in gaming technology, you may want to consider more modern GPUs.
Who Should Consider the GeForce GTX 980M
The GeForce GTX 980M is suitable for:
- Casual gamers who play less demanding games like League of Legends, Dota 2, or Overwatch
- Those on a tight budget who want a capable GPU for gaming without breaking the bank
- Users who prioritize portability and want a laptop with a balance of performance and battery life
Final Thoughts
The GeForce GTX 980M may not be the most powerful GPU on the market, but it still offers a good gaming experience for those with less demanding needs. While it’s not recommended for serious gamers or those who want the latest features and technologies, it can be a viable option for casual gamers or those on a budget. As technology continues to evolve, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of the GTX 980M and consider whether it meets your specific gaming requirements.
What are the key features of the GeForce GTX 980M?
The GeForce GTX 980M is a high-performance graphics processing unit (GPU) designed for gaming laptops. It features 1536 CUDA cores, 8 GB of GDDR5 memory, and a 256-bit memory bus. The GPU has a base clock speed of 1038 MHz and a boost clock speed of up to 1126 MHz. Additionally, it supports various technologies such as NVIDIA’s Optimus, PhysX, and GeForce Experience. These features make the GTX 980M a powerful GPU capable of handling demanding games and applications.
In terms of performance, the GTX 980M is based on the Maxwell architecture, which provides improved performance and power efficiency compared to its predecessors. The GPU also supports DirectX 12, OpenGL 4.5, and Vulkan, making it compatible with a wide range of games and applications. Furthermore, the GTX 980M features NVIDIA’s BatteryBoost technology, which helps to optimize battery life while gaming on laptops. Overall, the GTX 980M’s key features make it a popular choice among gamers and graphics professionals who require a high-performance GPU for their laptops.
How does the GeForce GTX 980M perform in modern games?
The GeForce GTX 980M is capable of delivering smooth performance in modern games, especially at lower resolutions such as 1080p. In games like Fortnite, PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, and Overwatch, the GTX 980M can achieve frame rates of over 60 FPS at high settings. However, at higher resolutions such as 1440p or 4K, the GPU may struggle to maintain high frame rates, especially in more demanding games like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey or The Witcher 3. Additionally, the GTX 980M may not be able to handle the latest games at ultra-high settings, but it can still provide a good gaming experience at lower settings.
In general, the GTX 980M’s performance in modern games is still respectable, considering its age. However, it may not be able to keep up with the latest GPUs in terms of raw performance. Gamers who want to play the latest games at high settings may need to consider more modern GPUs like the GeForce RTX 3070 or RTX 3080. Nevertheless, the GTX 980M remains a good option for those who want to play less demanding games or are looking for a budget-friendly GPU for their laptops. With the right settings and expectations, the GTX 980M can still provide a good gaming experience for many users.
Can the GeForce GTX 980M handle 4K gaming?
The GeForce GTX 980M is not ideally suited for 4K gaming, as it may struggle to maintain high frame rates at such a high resolution. While it can handle 4K resolutions, the GPU may not be able to provide smooth performance in demanding games, especially at high settings. In some cases, the frame rates may drop below 30 FPS, which can result in a less-than-ideal gaming experience. However, the GTX 980M can still handle 4K resolutions in less demanding games or at lower settings, making it a viable option for those who want to play games at 4K but do not require ultra-high frame rates.
For 4K gaming, it is generally recommended to use a more powerful GPU like the GeForce RTX 3080 or a desktop GPU like the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090. These GPUs have more CUDA cores, higher clock speeds, and more advanced architectures, making them better suited for handling the demands of 4K gaming. Nevertheless, the GTX 980M can still provide a good gaming experience at lower resolutions, and it remains a popular choice among gamers who want a balance between performance and power efficiency. With the right settings and expectations, the GTX 980M can still be a good option for those who want to play games at high resolutions.
How does the GeForce GTX 980M compare to other mobile GPUs?
The GeForce GTX 980M is a high-end mobile GPU that competes with other powerful GPUs like the AMD Radeon R9 M395 and the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970M. In terms of performance, the GTX 980M is generally faster than the GTX 970M and comparable to the R9 M395. However, the GTX 980M may not be as power-efficient as some of the newer GPUs, which can result in higher power consumption and heat generation. Additionally, the GTX 980M may not have all the features of newer GPUs, such as ray tracing or artificial intelligence-enhanced graphics.
In comparison to newer mobile GPUs like the GeForce RTX 3070 or RTX 3080, the GTX 980M is significantly slower and less feature-rich. The newer GPUs have more advanced architectures, higher clock speeds, and more CUDA cores, making them better suited for handling the demands of modern games and applications. Nevertheless, the GTX 980M remains a popular choice among gamers who want a balance between performance and price. It is also a good option for those who want to play less demanding games or are looking for a budget-friendly GPU for their laptops. With the right settings and expectations, the GTX 980M can still provide a good gaming experience for many users.
Is the GeForce GTX 980M still a good option for gaming laptops?
The GeForce GTX 980M is still a viable option for gaming laptops, especially for those who want a balance between performance and price. While it may not be as powerful as newer GPUs, the GTX 980M can still provide a good gaming experience for many users. It is also a good option for those who want to play less demanding games or are looking for a budget-friendly GPU for their laptops. Additionally, the GTX 980M is widely available in many gaming laptops, making it a popular choice among gamers.
However, gamers who want to play the latest games at high settings may need to consider more modern GPUs like the GeForce RTX 3070 or RTX 3080. These GPUs have more advanced architectures, higher clock speeds, and more CUDA cores, making them better suited for handling the demands of modern games and applications. Nevertheless, the GTX 980M remains a good option for those who want a budget-friendly GPU for their laptops. With the right settings and expectations, the GTX 980M can still provide a good gaming experience for many users. It is also a good option for those who want to play games at lower resolutions or are looking for a GPU that can handle less demanding games.
What are the power consumption and heat generation of the GeForce GTX 980M?
The GeForce GTX 980M has a typical power consumption of around 125 watts, which is relatively high compared to some of the newer GPUs. The GPU also has a maximum power consumption of up to 150 watts, which can result in higher heat generation and power consumption. Additionally, the GTX 980M may require more powerful cooling systems to keep it at a safe temperature, which can add to the overall weight and size of the laptop.
In terms of heat generation, the GTX 980M can reach temperatures of up to 90 degrees Celsius, which is relatively high compared to some of the newer GPUs. However, this can be managed with proper cooling systems and thermal management. The GTX 980M also features NVIDIA’s BatteryBoost technology, which helps to optimize battery life while gaming on laptops. Nevertheless, the GTX 980M’s power consumption and heat generation may be a concern for some users, especially those who want a more power-efficient GPU for their laptops. With the right cooling systems and thermal management, the GTX 980M can still provide a good gaming experience for many users.