GPU Comparison

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

Quick Verdict

The GeForce GTX 970 is dramatically faster than the GeForce GTX 960, leading by roughly 40% in our performance index. The GeForce GTX 960, however, delivers more performance per dollar — $589 cheaper.

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

VS
NVIDIA
GeForce GTX 960
Price
$479
Perf Index
5%
Value Score
0.010
VRAM2GB GDDR6
Thermal TDP
Price
$1068
Perf Index
7%
Value Score
0.007
VRAM4GB GDDR6
Thermal TDP

GeForce GTX 970 vs GeForce GTX 960: In-Depth Breakdown

Performance: GeForce GTX 970 vs GeForce GTX 960

The GeForce GTX 970 is dramatically faster, around 40% ahead of the GeForce GTX 960. Both cards sit in the same broad class, well suited to entry-level 1080p.

Price & Value

Right now the GeForce GTX 960 starts at $479 against $1,068 for the GeForce GTX 970. Despite being slower, the GeForce GTX 960 offers the better performance-per-dollar (~59% better value), so budget-focused buyers should weigh it carefully. The GeForce GTX 960 still sits about $280 above its $199 MSRP. The GeForce GTX 970 still sits about $739 above its $329 MSRP.

VRAM & Future-Proofing

With 4GB against 2GB, the GeForce GTX 970 has more headroom for 4K textures and memory-hungry creative/AI tasks where the GeForce GTX 960's 2GB can fall short.

Which should you buy: GeForce GTX 960 or GeForce GTX 970?

Choose the GeForce GTX 970 if you want the most performance and can absorb the higher price. If you're optimizing for value, the GeForce GTX 960 stretches your money further for only slightly lower performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GeForce GTX 970 better than the GeForce GTX 960?

The GeForce GTX 970 is dramatically faster, roughly 40% ahead. The GeForce GTX 960 is still worth it if value matters more than top-end frames.

Which is better for 4K gaming, the GeForce GTX 960 or the GeForce GTX 970?

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 970 worth the extra $589 over the GeForce GTX 960?

Only if you need the extra performance or features; on pure value the GeForce GTX 960 comes out ahead.

Does the GeForce GTX 970 have enough VRAM advantage to matter?

Its 4GB (vs 2GB) gives real headroom for 4K, heavy texture mods, and creative/AI work. At 1080p the gap matters less.