Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 1080 (NVIDIA, 2016) and GeForce RTX 2060 (NVIDIA, 2019) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 1080 is about 4.3% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM GTX 1080（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 1080 | RTX 2060 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 12,000 | 11,500 |
| VRAM | 8GB | 6GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 10 | RTX 20 |
| Release Year | 2016 | 2019 |
| Compatible CPU Example | AMD FX-9590 | Core i7-6700 |
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 also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | GTX 1080 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 1080 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | RTX 2060 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 1080 is about 4.3% higher by score (GTX 1080: 12000 points / RTX 2060: 11500 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 has 8GB of VRAM, while RTX 2060 has 6GB; GTX 1080 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-9590 pairs well with GTX 1080 and Core i7-6700 with RTX 2060 (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
