MSI RTX 2080 and 2080 Ti – The Perfect 144 Hz Gaming Cards?

Final Thoughts

Both of the graphics cards performed as good as we had hoped. Of course, the 144 Hz Optix monitor was no slouch either. Of course, we’re not being MSI fanboys here, any similar specification high-refresh-rate monitor and other branded RTX cards would do about the same. We just happened to have an MSI monitor here for review, and two MSI graphics cards. It just seemed like a good pairing, and it was!

Performance

For getting the most bang for your buck, it’s clear that the RTX 2080 is the way to go. It was able to push some very high frame rates at 1440p on a 144 Hz monitor. Sure, you’re seeing our figures with using all “normal” or “medium” graphics profiles applied. Trying to hit “ultra” at such high refresh rates needs exponentially more power and we’re not quite there yet, at least when running more modern titles. Multi GPU may get you there, but in my experience, that can be hit and miss.

The RTX 2080 Ti Duke we tested is an absolute monster. However, it is quite expensive. If money is no option, and you want to hit high frame rates, at higher graphics settings, then that’s the price of a premium seat in the house I’m afraid.

Should I Upgrade?

There are a fair few options out there right now. The last gen GTX cards are still very competitive both in regards to price and performance. However, if you’re also wanting to get a bit of Ray Tracing and DLSS action in the coming months, RTX is the way to go. I would guess you do too, as those seeking things like ultra-high refresh rate monitors, resolutions above 1920x1080p and expensive graphics cards, obviously care about rendering more than most. For me, the RTX 2080 is the hot ticket, good performance, features, and a price I can almost afford. If money is no object though, we can’t argue with the performance of the MSI RTX 2080 Ti Duke. For those seeking a 144 Hz monitor with 1440p too, we’ve had a lot of fun playing around with the Optix MPG27GCQ from MSI; check out its review here!