Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 480 (NVIDIA, 2010) and GeForce GTX 660 (NVIDIA, 2012) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 480 is about 8.6% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM GTX 660（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 660 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 3,800 | 3,500 |
| VRAM | 1.5GB | 2GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 400 | GTX 600 |
| Release Year | 2010 | 2012 |
| Compatible CPU Example | AMD Athlon II X4 645 | AMD A6-7470K |
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 660 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 660 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 660 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 480 is about 8.6% higher by score (GTX 480: 3800 points / GTX 660: 3500 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 660 has 2GB; GTX 660 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 AMD A6-7470K with GTX 660 (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 660 Details ／ Compare Another Combination
