GPU Comparison

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

Quick Verdict

On raw speed the GeForce GTX 980 comes out dramatically faster — about 140% ahead of the GeForce GTX 960. 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
$75 USD
Perf Index
5%
Value Score
0.067
VRAM2GB GDDR5
Thermal TDP120W
NVIDIA
GeForce GTX 980
Price
$85 USD
Perf Index
12%
Value Score
0.141
VRAM4GB GDDR5
Thermal TDP165W

GeForce GTX 980 vs GeForce GTX 960: In-Depth Breakdown

Performance: GeForce GTX 980 vs GeForce GTX 960

The GeForce GTX 980 is dramatically faster, around 140% ahead of the GeForce GTX 960. Both cards sit in the same broad class, well suited to entry-level 1080p.

Price & Value

The GeForce GTX 960 currently lists from $75 USD, $10 USD less than the GeForce GTX 980 at $85 USD. Because it's both faster and competitively priced, the GeForce GTX 980 wins on performance-per-dollar by about 112%. The GeForce GTX 960 is trading below its $199 USD MSRP — a genuine deal. The GeForce GTX 980 is trading below its $549 USD MSRP — a genuine deal.

Power & Efficiency

On power, the GeForce GTX 960 is the gentler choice at 120W versus 165W. The GeForce GTX 980 is more efficient per watt because it's faster, but its higher 165W draw means more heat and a bigger PSU.

VRAM & Future-Proofing

The GeForce GTX 980 carries 4GB versus 2GB on the GeForce GTX 960. The extra 2GB helps at 4K, with high-resolution texture packs, and for content-creation or local-AI workloads that exhaust smaller buffers.

Which should you buy: GeForce GTX 960 or GeForce GTX 980?

The GeForce GTX 980 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 960 if you find it at a steep discount.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GeForce GTX 980 better than the GeForce GTX 960?

The GeForce GTX 980 is dramatically faster, roughly 140% ahead. If your budget allows, it's the stronger pick.

Which is better for 4K gaming, the GeForce GTX 960 or the GeForce GTX 980?

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 980 worth the extra $10 USD over the GeForce GTX 960?

Often yes — despite the higher price the GeForce GTX 980 delivers better performance-per-dollar here.

Does the GeForce GTX 980 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.