Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce RTX 3080 12GB (NVIDIA, 2022) and GeForce RTX 3080 (NVIDIA, 2020) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: RTX 3080 12GB is about 2% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM RTX 3080 12GB（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 3080 12GB | RTX 3080 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 25,000 | 24,500 |
| VRAM | 12GB | 10GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | RTX 30 | RTX 30 |
| Release Year | 2022 | 2020 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Ryzen 5 8600G | Ryzen 5 8600G |
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 3080 12GB also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | RTX 3080 12GB |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | RTX 3080 12GB |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | RTX 3080 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RTX 3080 12GB is about 2% higher by score (RTX 3080 12GB: 25000 points / RTX 3080: 24500 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 3080 12GB has 12GB of VRAM, while RTX 3080 has 10GB; RTX 3080 12GB 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 8600G pairs well with RTX 3080 12GB and Ryzen 5 8600G with RTX 3080 (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
