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 6GB comes out dramatically faster β€” about 44% ahead of the GeForce GTX 1060. But the GeForce GTX 1060 is the better value, undercutting it by $115 USD for the performance you get.

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

VS
NVIDIA
GeForce GTX 1060
Price
$95 USD
Perf Index
9%
Value Score
0.095
VRAM6GB GDDR5
Thermal TDP120W
Price
$210 USD
Perf Index
13%
Value Score
0.062
VRAM6GB GDDR6
Thermal TDP130W

GeForce RTX 3050 6GB vs GeForce GTX 1060: In-Depth Breakdown

Performance: GeForce RTX 3050 6GB vs GeForce GTX 1060

The GeForce RTX 3050 6GB 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. The GeForce RTX 3050 6GB packs 2,560 CUDA cores versus 1,280 on the GeForce GTX 1060.

Price & Value

The GeForce GTX 1060 currently lists from $95 USD, $115 USD less than the GeForce RTX 3050 6GB at $210 USD. Despite being slower, the GeForce GTX 1060 offers the better performance-per-dollar (~53% better value), so budget-focused buyers should weigh it carefully. The GeForce GTX 1060 is trading below its $299 USD MSRP β€” a genuine deal.

Power & Efficiency

On power, the GeForce GTX 1060 is the gentler choice at 120W versus 130W. The GeForce RTX 3050 6GB is more efficient per watt because it's faster, but its higher 130W draw means more heat and a bigger PSU. Its more modern Ampere architecture on a Samsung 8nm process is part of why it does more with each watt.

Memory & Bandwidth

The GeForce RTX 3050 6GB's memory is faster β€” 224 GB/s versus 192 GB/s (128-bit vs 192-bit bus) β€” which helps feed the GPU at 4K and with heavy textures.

Generation & Longevity

The GeForce RTX 3050 6GB is roughly 6 years newer than the GeForce GTX 1060 (Ampere vs Pascal), 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 6GB?

Choose the GeForce RTX 3050 6GB if you want the most performance and can absorb the higher price. If you're optimizing for value, the GeForce GTX 1060 stretches your money further for only slightly lower performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GeForce RTX 3050 6GB better than the GeForce GTX 1060?

The GeForce RTX 3050 6GB is dramatically faster, roughly 44% ahead. The GeForce GTX 1060 is still worth it if value matters more than top-end frames.

Which is better for 4K gaming, the GeForce GTX 1060 or the GeForce RTX 3050 6GB?

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 RTX 3050 6GB worth the extra $115 USD over the GeForce GTX 1060?

Only if you need the extra performance or features; on pure value the GeForce GTX 1060 comes out ahead.