Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce RTX 2080 (NVIDIA, 2018) and GeForce RTX 2070 (NVIDIA, 2018) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: RTX 2080 is about 14.8% 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 2080 | RTX 2070 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 15,500 | 13,500 |
| VRAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | RTX 20 | RTX 20 |
| Release Year | 2018 | 2018 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Ryzen 5 2600 | Ryzen 5 1600 |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | RTX 2080 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | RTX 2080 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | RTX 2070 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RTX 2080 is about 14.8% higher by score (RTX 2080: 15500 points / RTX 2070: 13500 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 2600 pairs well with RTX 2080 and Ryzen 5 1600 with RTX 2070 (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
