Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce RTX 2080 Ti (NVIDIA, 2019) and GeForce RTX 3060 (NVIDIA, 2021) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: RTX 2080 Ti is about 8.2% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM RTX 3060（12GB） 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 | RTX 2080 Ti | RTX 3060 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 18,500 | 17,100 |
| VRAM | 11GB | 12GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | RTX 20 | RTX 30 |
| Release Year | 2019 | 2021 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Core i5-9500 | Ryzen 3 3300X |
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 RTX 3060 also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | RTX 2080 Ti |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | RTX 3060 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | RTX 3060 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RTX 2080 Ti is about 8.2% higher by score (RTX 2080 Ti: 18500 points / RTX 3060: 17100 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.
RTX 2080 Ti has 11GB of VRAM, while RTX 3060 has 12GB; RTX 3060 has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, Core i5-9500 pairs well with RTX 2080 Ti and Ryzen 3 3300X with RTX 3060 (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
