Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 480 (NVIDIA, 2010) and GeForce GTX 1030 (NVIDIA, 2018) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 480 is about 18.8% 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 480 | GTX 1030 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 3,800 | 3,200 |
| VRAM | 1.5GB | 2GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 400 | GTX 10 |
| Release Year | 2010 | 2018 |
| Compatible CPU Example | AMD Athlon II X4 645 | Core 2 Quad Q9550 |
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 480 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 1030 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 1030 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 480 is about 18.8% higher by score (GTX 480: 3800 points / GTX 1030: 3200 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 480 has 1.5GB of VRAM, while GTX 1030 has 2GB; 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, AMD Athlon II X4 645 pairs well with GTX 480 and Core 2 Quad Q9550 with GTX 1030 (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 480 Details ／ GTX 1030 Details ／ Compare Another Combination
