Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 1030 (NVIDIA, 2018) and GeForce GTX 550 Ti (NVIDIA, 2011) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 1030 is about 28% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM GTX 1030（2GB） has the advantage. For gaming, prioritize performance score and CPU compatibility; for AI, prioritize VRAM.
Relative performance score (higher is faster). Actual fps varies by resolution, game, and CPU configuration.
| Item | GTX 1030 | GTX 550 Ti |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 3,200 | 2,500 |
| VRAM | 2GB | 1GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 10 | GTX 500 |
| Release Year | 2018 | 2011 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Core 2 Quad Q9550 | AMD Athlon II X3 445 |
These generative AI models can run on only one GPU because of the VRAM difference (Stable Diffusion, Flux, LLMs, and others).
— None (all models that run on GTX 1030 also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | GTX 1030 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 1030 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 550 Ti (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 1030 is about 28% higher by score (GTX 1030: 3200 points / GTX 550 Ti: 2500 points). Actual fps also varies by resolution, game, and CPU, so price is a reasonable deciding factor when the gap is only a few percent.
GTX 1030 has 2GB of VRAM, while GTX 550 Ti has 1GB; GTX 1030 has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, Core 2 Quad Q9550 pairs well with GTX 1030 and AMD Athlon II X3 445 with GTX 550 Ti (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
→ GTX 1030 Details ／ GTX 550 Ti Details ／ Compare Another Combination
