Nvidia’s Upcoming Super Series: Power Consumption & Performance
As the tech world holds its breath, rumors are circulating about Nvidia’s upcoming Super graphics card series. The key question on everyone’s mind is: Will the newer versions demand more power, and if so, how will that translate to performance?
Power Consumption: What The Leaks Say
According to recent whispers on X (previously known as Twitter), the new Super models might consume the same amount of power as their predecessors, suggesting a maintained performance trajectory. However, as with any rumor, it’s essential to exercise caution. In a recent tweet, noted tech leaker Kopite7kimi dropped hints suggesting the same.
The leaker highlights that, with one exception, the Super versions will uphold their counterparts’ power usage. The exception is the RTX 4070 Super, which is expected to consume 220W, compared to the 200W of the original RTX 4070.
Diving deeper, the potential RTX 4070 Ti Super and RTX 4080 Super would maintain the current power drain levels of the RTX 4070 Ti and RTX 4080 – translating to 285W and 320W, respectively.
“You can see in the tweet, the leaker states that the Super refreshes will have the same power usage as their counterparts, but for one exception noted in a further tweet.”
Analyzing the Implications for the RTX 4080 Super
While these tidbits provide a glimpse into what might be in store, what do they mean for gamers and tech enthusiasts?
One theory suggests Nvidia might be aiming for harder clocks with the RTX 4070 Super, which is why it requires more wattage. However, the other Super variants seem to maintain a status quo, not pushing for significantly higher clocks.
Although faster clock speeds were anticipated for the incoming Super graphics cards, it’s crucial to remember that clock speed isn’t the sole determiner of performance. Other aspects come into play, such as process enhancements, potential increases in VRAM, and of course, the expected boost in CUDA core counts.
They will have the same power consumption than non-super models. https://t.co/1vG6lsO4Kx
— kopite7kimi (@kopite7kimi) November 2, 2023
For instance, the RTX 4070 Super is projected to benefit from a notable 22% increase in core counts over the RTX 4070, in addition to faster clocks. The RTX 4070 Ti Super might also gain a solid 10% in cores, if leaks hold true.
However, the situation appears less rosy for the RTX 4080 Super. Given the details available, it might only offer a minimal 5% CUDA core boost. With no potential for VRAM enhancements and stagnation in clock speeds, the RTX 4080 Super might be a tepid upgrade.
“Some core count boosts are going to be substantial as per previous rumors from Kopite7kimi, notably the RTX 4070 Super.”
Nvidia’s Strategy Unveiled?
Given these speculations, one might wonder about Nvidia’s strategy. The general consensus is that these refreshes are designed to address the reportedly sluggish sales of the RTX 4080. But making the RTX 4080 Super the weakest link seems contradictory, right?
One plausible explanation could be the eventual replacement of the RTX 4080 by the Super variant. Rumors even hint at the potential discontinuation of the original RTX 4080, with the Super version emerging as a more cost-effective alternative.
While the current word on Nvidia’s Super graphics cards paints a mixed picture, it’s essential to remember that the company hasn’t firmed up decisions regarding power, clock speeds, core counts, or even model names. A lot can change leading up to the expected 2024 launch, especially considering market dynamics and competitors’ moves, such as AMD’s rumored response to Nvidia’s Super series.
The Road Ahead
The tech sphere thrives on speculation, but only time will reveal Nvidia’s exact plans. How the graphics giant chooses to position its Super series will inevitably be influenced by market shifts and competitive reactions over the coming months.
Keep your eyes peeled for more leaks and official announcements as the industry moves ever closer to the Super era.
