The rise of desktop graphics cards in China: Nvidia RTX 4080M
Introduction
Converting custom graphics processing units (GPUs) from laptops to desktop graphics cards is a growing phenomenon in China. Little-known companies manufacture and issue these cards with professional and attractive designs, supporting Nvidia and AMD graphics. One notable example is the Nvidia RTX 4080M, originally designed for laptops but now making waves as a desktop graphics card.
Transformation process
Chinese companies extract GPUs such as AD104 and AD103 from laptop printed circuit boards (PCBs) and mount them on larger PCBs used for desktop graphics cards. This process is embodied in the RTX 4080M and RTX 4090M, derived from their laptop counterparts.
Performance considerations
Despite concerns about the quality of manufacturing from unknown GPU makers, the primary consideration is the level of performance. When buying the RTX 4080M, it is essential to note that its performance is between the RTX 4070 and RTX 4070 Ti desktop graphics cards. The reason behind this lies in the lower number of computing units in the RTX 4080M's AD104 GPU compared to the AD103 in the RTX 4080.
Power consumption and efficiency
The RTX 4080M has a power consumption of 285 watts, which is lower than the RTX 4080's power consumption of 320 watts. This efficiency extends to the RTX 4090M, underscoring the trade-off between performance and power consumption.
Challenges and considerations
While these cards may seem attractive due to their low prices, there are two important problems that arise. First, these graphics cards lack a sure guarantee, given their origin from unknown Chinese companies. Second, since these cards were originally designed for laptops, they contain specific drivers, which can affect the user experience with games or software and possibly lead to compatibility issues with the card, drivers, and operating systems.
Q&A Section
Q1: Are Chinese-made desktop graphics cards reliable?
A1: The reliability of these cards is a concern due to unknown manufacturers and the absence of proven warranties.
Q2: What is the performance difference between the RTX 4080M and its desktop counterpart RTX 4080?
A2: The performance of the RTX 4080M is between the RTX 4070 and the RTX 4070 Ti, which is lower than that of the desktop RTX 4080 due to differences in GPU computing units.
Q3: How does the power consumption of RTX 4080M compare to RTX 4080 desktop?
A3: The RTX 4080M has a lower power consumption of 285W compared to the 320W desktop RTX 4080.
Conclusion
While the trend towards converting mobile GPUs to desktop graphics cards is gaining momentum in China, potential buyers must weigh the advantages of lower prices with the risks associated with unknown manufacturers and potential compatibility issues.
Discover the phenomenon of converting portable GPUs to desktop graphics cards, focusing on the Nvidia RTX 4080M. Learn about the process, performance and energy efficiency considerations, challenges and key considerations for potential buyers in the Chinese market.