Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 960 (NVIDIA, 2015) and GeForce GTX 580 (NVIDIA, 2011) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 960 is about 11.1% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM GTX 960（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 960 | GTX 580 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 5,000 | 4,500 |
| VRAM | 2GB | 1.5GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 900 | GTX 500 |
| Release Year | 2015 | 2011 |
| Compatible CPU Example | AMD A8-7670K | AMD FX-4100 |
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 960 also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | GTX 960 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 960 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 580 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 960 is about 11.1% higher by score (GTX 960: 5000 points / GTX 580: 4500 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 960 has 2GB of VRAM, while GTX 580 has 1.5GB; GTX 960 has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, AMD A8-7670K pairs well with GTX 960 and AMD FX-4100 with GTX 580 (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 960 Details ／ GTX 580 Details ／ Compare Another Combination
