Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce RTX 3050 (NVIDIA, 2022) and GeForce GTX 1660 Ti (NVIDIA, 2019) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: RTX 3050 is about 13.6% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM RTX 3050（8GB） 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 3050 | GTX 1660 Ti |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 12,500 | 11,000 |
| VRAM | 8GB | 6GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | RTX 30 | GTX 16 |
| Release Year | 2022 | 2019 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Ryzen 5 1400 | Ryzen 3 2300X |
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 3050 also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | RTX 3050 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | RTX 3050 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 1660 Ti (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RTX 3050 is about 13.6% higher by score (RTX 3050: 12500 points / GTX 1660 Ti: 11000 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 3050 has 8GB of VRAM, while GTX 1660 Ti has 6GB; RTX 3050 has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, Ryzen 5 1400 pairs well with RTX 3050 and Ryzen 3 2300X with GTX 1660 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.
