Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 1070 Ti (NVIDIA, 2017) and GeForce GTX 980 Ti (NVIDIA, 2015) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 1070 Ti is about 12.7% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM GTX 1070 Ti（8GB） 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 1070 Ti | GTX 980 Ti |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 11,500 | 10,200 |
| VRAM | 8GB | 6GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 10 | GTX 900 |
| Release Year | 2017 | 2015 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Core i7-6700 | Core i5-7600K |
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 1070 Ti also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | GTX 1070 Ti |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 1070 Ti |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 980 Ti (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 1070 Ti is about 12.7% higher by score (GTX 1070 Ti: 11500 points / GTX 980 Ti: 10200 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 1070 Ti has 8GB of VRAM, while GTX 980 Ti has 6GB; GTX 1070 Ti has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, Core i7-6700 pairs well with GTX 1070 Ti and Core i5-7600K with GTX 980 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.
