GPU Comparison

Select up to 2 GPUs to analyze their pricing, performance, and specifications side-by-side.

Quick Verdict

On raw speed the GeForce RTX 3050 comes out dramatically faster — about 44% ahead of the GeForce GTX 1060. It also wins on performance-per-dollar, making it the cleaner choice when you can afford it.

Maximum Capacity Reached. Remove a model to add another. (2/2)

VS
Price
$500
Perf Index
9%
Value Score
0.018
VRAM6GB GDDR6
Thermal TDP120W
NVIDIA
GeForce RTX 3050
Price
$340
Perf Index
13%
Value Score
0.038
VRAM4GB GDDR6
Thermal TDP130W

GeForce RTX 3050 vs GeForce GTX 1060: In-Depth Breakdown

Performance: GeForce RTX 3050 vs GeForce GTX 1060

The GeForce RTX 3050 is dramatically faster, around 44% ahead of the GeForce GTX 1060. Both cards sit in the same broad class, well suited to entry-level 1080p.

Price & Value

The GeForce RTX 3050 currently lists from $340, $160 less than the GeForce GTX 1060 at $500. Because it's both faster and competitively priced, the GeForce RTX 3050 wins on performance-per-dollar by about 112%. The GeForce RTX 3050 still sits about $91 above its $249 MSRP. The GeForce GTX 1060 still sits about $201 above its $299 MSRP.

Power & Efficiency

On power, the GeForce GTX 1060 is the gentler choice at 120W versus 130W. The GeForce RTX 3050 is more efficient per watt because it's faster, but its higher 130W draw means more heat and a bigger PSU.

VRAM & Future-Proofing

The GeForce GTX 1060 carries 6GB versus 4GB on the GeForce RTX 3050. The extra 2GB helps at 4K, with high-resolution texture packs, and for content-creation or local-AI workloads that exhaust smaller buffers.

Generation & Longevity

The GeForce RTX 3050 is roughly 6 years newer than the GeForce GTX 1060, so it generally benefits from a more modern architecture and longer driver-support runway.

Which should you buy: GeForce GTX 1060 or GeForce RTX 3050?

the GeForce RTX 3050 is the all-round winner here — it's faster and the better value, so buy it if it fits your budget. Only consider the GeForce GTX 1060 if you find it at a steep discount.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GeForce RTX 3050 better than the GeForce GTX 1060?

The GeForce RTX 3050 is dramatically faster, roughly 44% ahead. If your budget allows, it's the stronger pick.

Which is better for 4K gaming, the GeForce GTX 1060 or the GeForce RTX 3050?

Neither is a dedicated 4K card; both are best at entry-level 1080p. For 4K you'd want a faster GPU, or lean on upscaling.

Is the GeForce GTX 1060 worth the extra $160 over the GeForce RTX 3050?

Only if you need the extra performance or features; on pure value the GeForce RTX 3050 comes out ahead.

Does the GeForce GTX 1060 have enough VRAM advantage to matter?

Its 6GB (vs 4GB) gives real headroom for 4K, heavy texture mods, and creative/AI work. At 1080p the gap matters less.