Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 980 (NVIDIA, 2015) and GeForce GTX 1060 3GB (NVIDIA, 2016) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 980 is about 10.7% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM GTX 980（4GB） 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 980 | GTX 1060 3GB |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 8,300 | 7,500 |
| VRAM | 4GB | 3GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 900 | GTX 10 |
| Release Year | 2015 | 2016 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Ryzen 3 1300X | Core i5-3570K |
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 980 also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | GTX 980 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 980 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 1060 3GB (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 980 is about 10.7% higher by score (GTX 980: 8300 points / GTX 1060 3GB: 7500 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 980 has 4GB of VRAM, while GTX 1060 3GB has 3GB; GTX 980 has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, Ryzen 3 1300X pairs well with GTX 980 and Core i5-3570K with GTX 1060 3GB (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 980 Details ／ GTX 1060 3GB Details ／ Compare Another Combination
