Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 1080 Ti (NVIDIA, 2017) and GeForce RTX 3050 (NVIDIA, 2022) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 1080 Ti is about 16% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM GTX 1080 Ti（11GB） 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 1080 Ti | RTX 3050 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 14,500 | 12,500 |
| VRAM | 11GB | 8GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 10 | RTX 30 |
| Release Year | 2017 | 2022 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Ryzen 7 1700X | Ryzen 5 1400 |
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 1080 Ti also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | GTX 1080 Ti |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 1080 Ti |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | RTX 3050 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 1080 Ti is about 16% higher by score (GTX 1080 Ti: 14500 points / RTX 3050: 12500 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 1080 Ti has 11GB of VRAM, while RTX 3050 has 8GB; GTX 1080 Ti has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, Ryzen 7 1700X pairs well with GTX 1080 Ti and Ryzen 5 1400 with RTX 3050 (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
