GPU Comparison

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

Quick Verdict

The GeForce RTX 3060 is noticeably faster than the GeForce GTX 1080, leading by roughly 13% in our performance index. The GeForce GTX 1080, however, delivers more performance per dollar — $140 cheaper.

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

VS
NVIDIA
GeForce GTX 1080
Price
$350
Perf Index
16%
Value Score
0.046
VRAM8GB GDDR6
Thermal TDP180W
Price
$490
Perf Index
18%
Value Score
0.037
VRAM8GB GDDR6
Thermal TDP170W

GeForce RTX 3060 vs GeForce GTX 1080: In-Depth Breakdown

Performance: GeForce RTX 3060 vs GeForce GTX 1080

The GeForce RTX 3060 is noticeably faster, around 13% ahead of the GeForce GTX 1080. Both cards sit in the same broad class, well suited to 1080p.

Price & Value

Right now the GeForce GTX 1080 starts at $350 against $490 for the GeForce RTX 3060. Despite being slower, the GeForce GTX 1080 offers the better performance-per-dollar (~24% better value), so budget-focused buyers should weigh it carefully. The GeForce GTX 1080 is trading below its $599 MSRP — a genuine deal. The GeForce RTX 3060 still sits about $131 above its $359 MSRP.

Power & Efficiency

The GeForce RTX 3060 draws just 170W versus 180W for the GeForce GTX 1080, and it also delivers more performance per watt — so it runs cooler and quieter and needs less PSU headroom.

Generation & Longevity

The GeForce RTX 3060 is roughly 5 years newer than the GeForce GTX 1080, so it generally benefits from a more modern architecture and longer driver-support runway.

Which should you buy: GeForce GTX 1080 or GeForce RTX 3060?

Choose the GeForce RTX 3060 if you want the most performance and can absorb the higher price. If you're optimizing for value, the GeForce GTX 1080 stretches your money further for only slightly lower performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GeForce RTX 3060 better than the GeForce GTX 1080?

The GeForce RTX 3060 is noticeably faster, roughly 13% ahead. The GeForce GTX 1080 is still worth it if value matters more than top-end frames.

Which is better for 4K gaming, the GeForce GTX 1080 or the GeForce RTX 3060?

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

Is the GeForce RTX 3060 worth the extra $140 over the GeForce GTX 1080?

Only if you need the extra performance or features; on pure value the GeForce GTX 1080 comes out ahead.