Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 950 (NVIDIA, 2015) and GeForce GTX 480 (NVIDIA, 2010) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 950 is about 10.5% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM GTX 950（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 950 | GTX 480 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 4,200 | 3,800 |
| VRAM | 2GB | 1.5GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 900 | GTX 400 |
| Release Year | 2015 | 2010 |
| Compatible CPU Example | AMD Phenom II X4 945 | AMD Athlon II X4 645 |
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 950 also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | GTX 950 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 950 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 480 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 950 is about 10.5% higher by score (GTX 950: 4200 points / GTX 480: 3800 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 950 has 2GB of VRAM, while GTX 480 has 1.5GB; GTX 950 has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, AMD Phenom II X4 945 pairs well with GTX 950 and AMD Athlon II X4 645 with GTX 480 (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 950 Details ／ GTX 480 Details ／ Compare Another Combination
