Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce RTX 2070 (NVIDIA, 2018) and GeForce GTX 1080 (NVIDIA, 2016) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: RTX 2070 is about 12.5% faster
Both have 8GB 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 2070 | GTX 1080 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 13,500 | 12,000 |
| VRAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | RTX 20 | GTX 10 |
| Release Year | 2018 | 2016 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Ryzen 5 1600 | AMD FX-9590 |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | RTX 2070 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | RTX 2070 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 1080 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RTX 2070 is about 12.5% higher by score (RTX 2070: 13500 points / GTX 1080: 12000 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 8GB of VRAM, so the range of generative AI models they can run is nearly the same.
Using our guideline, Ryzen 5 1600 pairs well with RTX 2070 and AMD FX-9590 with GTX 1080 (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
