Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce RTX 2060 (NVIDIA, 2019) and GeForce GTX 980 Ti (NVIDIA, 2015) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: RTX 2060 is about 12.7% faster
Both have 6GB 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 | RTX 2060 | GTX 980 Ti |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 11,500 | 10,200 |
| VRAM | 6GB | 6GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | RTX 20 | GTX 900 |
| Release Year | 2019 | 2015 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Core i7-6700 | Core i5-7600K |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | RTX 2060 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | RTX 2060 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 980 Ti (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RTX 2060 is about 12.7% higher by score (RTX 2060: 11500 points / GTX 980 Ti: 10200 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 6GB of VRAM, so the range of generative AI models they can run is nearly the same.
Using our guideline, Core i7-6700 pairs well with RTX 2060 and Core i5-7600K with GTX 980 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.
