Nvidia Tesla K80 24GB vs. Nvidia Tesla P4 8GB

Attribute	Nvidia Tesla K80 24GB	Nvidia Tesla P4 8GB
GPU Model	Tesla K80	Tesla P4
Memory Size	24GB	8GB
Memory Type	GDDR5	GDDR5X
Memory Bandwidth	480 GB/s	192 GB/s
Compute Capability	3.7	6.1
CUDA Cores	4992	2560

Introduction

When it comes to high-performance computing, Nvidia is a name that stands out in the industry. Two of their popular GPU models, the Tesla K80 24GB and Tesla P4 8GB, are often compared for their capabilities and features. In this article, we will delve into the attributes of these two GPUs to help you understand their differences and determine which one may be more suitable for your specific needs.

Performance

The Nvidia Tesla K80 24GB is a dual-GPU card that offers a total of 24GB of GDDR5 memory. It is designed for high-performance computing tasks such as deep learning, scientific simulations, and data analytics. With a total of 4992 CUDA cores and a peak double precision performance of 2.91 TFLOPS, the K80 is a powerhouse when it comes to parallel processing tasks.

On the other hand, the Nvidia Tesla P4 8GB is a single-GPU card with 8GB of GDDR5 memory. It is optimized for inference workloads in deep learning applications, making it ideal for tasks such as image recognition and natural language processing. The P4 features 2560 CUDA cores and a peak single precision performance of 5.5 TFLOPS, making it a strong contender for real-time inference tasks.

Memory

One of the key differences between the Tesla K80 and Tesla P4 is the amount of memory they offer. The K80 comes with a total of 24GB of memory, which is ideal for memory-intensive applications that require large datasets to be processed simultaneously. This makes the K80 well-suited for tasks such as deep learning training and scientific simulations that involve complex calculations.

On the other hand, the Tesla P4 comes with 8GB of memory, which may be sufficient for inference workloads that do not require as much memory as training tasks. The P4's memory capacity is optimized for real-time processing of data, making it a good choice for applications that require quick decision-making based on incoming data streams.

Power Efficiency

Another important factor to consider when comparing the Tesla K80 and Tesla P4 is power efficiency. The K80 is known for its high power consumption due to its dual-GPU design and higher number of CUDA cores. While it offers superior performance for parallel processing tasks, it may not be the most energy-efficient option for applications that require long periods of continuous operation.

On the other hand, the Tesla P4 is designed for power efficiency, with a lower power consumption compared to the K80. This makes the P4 a better choice for applications that require lower energy consumption and can benefit from the P4's optimized performance for inference workloads. The P4's power efficiency also makes it a suitable option for deployment in data centers where energy costs are a significant factor.

Price

When it comes to price, the Tesla K80 is typically more expensive than the Tesla P4 due to its higher performance capabilities and larger memory capacity. The K80 is a premium GPU that is designed for demanding computing tasks, which is reflected in its price tag. While the K80 may be a worthwhile investment for applications that require high-performance computing, it may not be the most cost-effective option for budget-conscious users.

On the other hand, the Tesla P4 offers a more affordable option for users who require a GPU for inference workloads and real-time processing tasks. The P4's lower price point makes it an attractive choice for applications that do not require the high memory capacity and performance of the K80. For users looking for a cost-effective solution for inference tasks, the Tesla P4 may be the better choice.