Difference between EVGA GTX 1080 SC and FTW models?

[FooferSapien]

Going to be honest with you, I don't know a lot about video cards. Before I decide to get a new one I always look up reviews and benchmarks, but I don't actually understand the nitty-gritty of clock speeds and what not.

I have done enough research to know that I want to jump in and pick up a GTX 1080 but I'm trying to decide between the SC and FTW version. Thing is, despite looking in to it, I haven't been able to figure out what the difference is between the two other than the fact that the FTW has a slightly higher clock speed and power consumption. If anyone could explain it to me, ideally in laymen terms, I would truly appreciate it. If you could throw some advice my way about which one to get, I'd appreciate that too.

It's not like the extra 20 bucks is going to break the bank so I don't mind paying the extra for the FTW, I just don't want to use the extra power if there's no real benefit.

 

[Nocops2000]

Here's a link with an interesting breakdown on the differences. To summarize...

1. The FTW's TEXTURE FILL RATE is slightly higher than the SC, which apparently has no effect when it comes to gaming.

2. While the SC has ONE BIOS, the FTW has TWO BIOS. Also won't effect gaming performance. It's just a feature for enthusiasts who like to experiment with the BIOS.

3. The FTW has TWO 8 PIN POWER CONNECTORS while the SC only has ONE 8 PIN POWER CONNECTOR. Apparently a second connector is sometimes necessary when overclocking your card. Overclock it enough, and it will need more power. If you don't plan on overclocking your card, a second pin connector won't make a difference.

4. The FTW has pretty lights installed so you can watch it glow in multiple colors. This is just silly.

5. The FTW has 13 MHz more CLOCKSPEED than the SC. This seems to be the most relevant feature for gaming. But how much of a difference does 13 MHz make when it comes to frame rates? I have no clue. The only way to tell would be to benchmark test both cards. As far as I know, no on has done this yet.