Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 970 (NVIDIA, 2015) and GeForce GTX 1050 Ti (NVIDIA, 2016) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 970 is about 27.3% faster
Both have 4GB of VRAM, so they support a similar range of generative AI models. 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 970 | GTX 1050 Ti |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 7,000 | 5,500 |
| VRAM | 4GB | 4GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 900 | GTX 10 |
| Release Year | 2015 | 2016 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Ryzen 3 1200 | AMD FX-4300 |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | GTX 970 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 970 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 1050 Ti (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 970 is about 27.3% higher by score (GTX 970: 7000 points / GTX 1050 Ti: 5500 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.
Both have 4GB of VRAM, so the range of generative AI models they can run is nearly the same.
Using our guideline, Ryzen 3 1200 pairs well with GTX 970 and AMD FX-4300 with GTX 1050 Ti (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 970 Details ／ GTX 1050 Ti Details ／ Compare Another Combination
