GPU Comparison

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

Quick Verdict

The GeForce RTX 3060 8GB is significantly faster than the GeForce GTX 1080, leading by roughly 23% in our performance index.

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

VS
NVIDIA
GeForce GTX 1080
Price
€535
Performance
13%
VRAM
8 GB GDDR5X
Key Specs Advantage
+100% Memory Bus (256-bit vs 128-bit)
+33% Bandwidth (320 GB/s vs 240 GB/s)
Price
Awaiting Data
Performance
16%
VRAM
8 GB GDDR6
Key Specs Advantage
+40% CUDA Cores (3,584 vs 2,560)
+3% Boost Clock (1,777 MHz vs 1,733 MHz)

GeForce RTX 3060 8GB vs GeForce GTX 1080: In-Depth Breakdown

Performance: GeForce RTX 3060 8GB vs GeForce GTX 1080

The GeForce RTX 3060 8GB is significantly faster, around 23% ahead of the GeForce GTX 1080. That gap is enough to move it up a tier: the GeForce RTX 3060 8GB is comfortable at 1080p, while the GeForce GTX 1080 is better matched to entry-level 1080p. The GeForce RTX 3060 8GB packs 3,584 CUDA cores versus 2,560 on the GeForce GTX 1080.

Power & Efficiency

The GeForce RTX 3060 8GB 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. Its more modern Ampere architecture on a Samsung 8nm process is part of why it does more with each watt.

Memory & Bandwidth

The GeForce GTX 1080's memory is faster — 320 GB/s versus 240 GB/s (256-bit vs 128-bit bus) — which helps feed the GPU at 4K and with heavy textures.

Generation & Longevity

The GeForce RTX 3060 8GB is roughly 5 years newer than the GeForce GTX 1080 (Ampere vs Pascal), 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 8GB?

The GeForce RTX 3060 8GB is the faster card by about 23%. With live pricing limited for this pair, base your decision on the spec differences above — particularly VRAM and power draw — and check current stock before buying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GeForce RTX 3060 8GB better than the GeForce GTX 1080?

The GeForce RTX 3060 8GB is significantly faster, roughly 23% ahead. If your budget allows, it's the stronger pick.

Which is better for 4K gaming, the GeForce GTX 1080 or the GeForce RTX 3060 8GB?

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

Technical Specifications Comparison

Architecture & Cores

SpecificationGeForce GTX 1080GeForce RTX 3060 8GB
ArchitecturePascalAmpere
Process NodeTSMC 16nmSamsung 8nm
CUDA Cores (CUDA Cores / CUDA Cores)2,5603,584
Ray Tracing Cores28
Tensor / AI Cores112

Clock Speeds

SpecificationGeForce GTX 1080GeForce RTX 3060 8GB
Base Clock1,607 MHz1,320 MHz
Boost Clock1,733 MHz1,777 MHz

Memory

SpecificationGeForce GTX 1080GeForce RTX 3060 8GB
VRAM Capacity8 GB8 GB
Memory TypeGDDR5XGDDR6
Memory Bus256-bit128-bit
Memory Speed10 Gbps15 Gbps
Bandwidth320 GB/s240 GB/s

Connectivity & Power

SpecificationGeForce GTX 1080GeForce RTX 3060 8GB
InterfacePCIe 3.0 x16PCIe 4.0 x16
TDP180 W170 W
Power Connectors1x 8-pin1x 8-pin
ReleasedMay 2016Feb 2021