Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce RTX 3080 Ti (NVIDIA, 2021) and GeForce RTX 3080 12GB (NVIDIA, 2022) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: RTX 3080 Ti is about 4% faster
Both have 12GB 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 3080 Ti | RTX 3080 12GB |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 26,000 | 25,000 |
| VRAM | 12GB | 12GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | RTX 30 | RTX 30 |
| Release Year | 2021 | 2022 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Core i5-14600 | Ryzen 5 8600G |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | RTX 3080 Ti |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | RTX 3080 Ti |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | RTX 3080 12GB (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RTX 3080 Ti is about 4% higher by score (RTX 3080 Ti: 26000 points / RTX 3080 12GB: 25000 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 12GB of VRAM, so the range of generative AI models they can run is nearly the same.
Using our guideline, Core i5-14600 pairs well with RTX 3080 Ti and Ryzen 5 8600G with RTX 3080 12GB (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
