Is It Time to Upgrade a GTX 980 in 2023?

Upgrading a GTX 980 in 2023 could be a wise decision, depending on your gaming needs and performance expectations. This article will guide you through the factors to consider, offering insights to help you make an informed choice.

Performance

The GTX 980, while a solid card when it was released, is starting to show its age, particularly for newer titles and higher resolutions. If you're looking to play modern games at high settings or 1440p/4K resolutions, an upgrade would significantly enhance your experience. The graphics quality, frame rates, and overall performance of more recent GPUs like the RTX 3060, RTX 3070, and above are noticeably superior, providing a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience.

Ray Tracing and DLSS

If you're interested in playing games that utilize ray tracing or DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling), upgrading to a newer GPU from the RTX series is highly recommended. These features not only improve visual fidelity but also help with performance, especially at higher resolutions. The RTX series GPUs offer superior image quality and can handle more demanding scenarios with ease.

Price of New GPUs

In 2023, the GPU market remains volatile, with prices fluctuating due to ongoing supply chain issues and high demand. If you can find a reasonably priced upgrade, it might be worth the investment. However, it's crucial to monitor the market and find a deal that fits your budget.

Future-Proofing

Upgrading now can help future-proof your gaming setup. Modern GPU architectures and technologies are designed with future gaming in mind, ensuring better support for new games and features. By upgrading, you can enjoy upcoming titles without the need for another upgrade in the near future. Additionally, improving your current system can help balance it, making it more efficient and less prone to bottlenecks.

Other Components

Ensure that your CPU and power supply can support a new GPU. Sometimes, it might be worth upgrading other components alongside the GPU to maintain system balance. A well-rounded PC can significantly enhance gaming performance and stability.

Summary

If you find the GTX 980 limiting your gaming experience, especially with newer games, it would be a good time to consider an upgrade. However, if you're just looking for a little more FPS for competitive games or for playing older titles at low to medium settings, the GTX 980 can still perform well, particularly at 1080p. Additionally, until GPU prices drop to normal pre-2022 levels, it might be wise to hold onto your 980 and wait for a better pricing point.

Make an informed decision by weighing these factors and considering your specific needs. Upgrading your GPU can set you up for years of enjoyable gaming, but always research and plan accordingly.