Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce RTX 3080 12GB (NVIDIA, 2022) and GeForce RTX 5060 Ti (NVIDIA, 2025) 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 4.2% 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 5060 Ti |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 25,000 | 24,000 |
| VRAM | 12GB | 8GB / 16GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | RTX 30 | RTX 50 |
| Release Year | 2022 | 2025 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Ryzen 5 8600G | Ryzen 9 5900X |
These generative AI models can run on only one GPU because of the VRAM difference (Stable Diffusion, Flux, LLMs, and others).
For models sold with multiple VRAM configurations, this comparison uses the lower-capacity configuration.
— 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 5060 Ti (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RTX 3080 12GB is about 4.2% higher by score (RTX 3080 12GB: 25000 points / RTX 5060 Ti: 24000 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 5060 Ti has 8GB / 16GB; 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 9 5900X with RTX 5060 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.
