Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 1050 Ti (NVIDIA, 2016) and GeForce GTX 680 (NVIDIA, 2012) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 1050 Ti is about 5.8% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM GTX 1050 Ti（4GB） 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 1050 Ti | GTX 680 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 5,500 | 5,200 |
| VRAM | 4GB | 2GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 10 | GTX 600 |
| Release Year | 2016 | 2012 |
| Compatible CPU Example | AMD FX-4300 | Core i3-4170 |
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 1050 Ti also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | GTX 1050 Ti |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 1050 Ti |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 680 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 1050 Ti is about 5.8% higher by score (GTX 1050 Ti: 5500 points / GTX 680: 5200 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 1050 Ti has 4GB of VRAM, while GTX 680 has 2GB; GTX 1050 Ti has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, AMD FX-4300 pairs well with GTX 1050 Ti and Core i3-4170 with GTX 680 (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 1050 Ti Details ／ GTX 680 Details ／ Compare Another Combination
