Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce RTX 3080 (NVIDIA, 2020) and GeForce RTX 4070 (NVIDIA, 2023) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: RTX 3080 is about 4.3% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM RTX 4070（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 | RTX 4070 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 24,500 | 23,500 |
| VRAM | 10GB | 12GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | RTX 30 | RTX 40 |
| Release Year | 2020 | 2023 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Ryzen 5 8600G | Core i9-10900K |
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 4070 also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | RTX 3080 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | RTX 4070 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | RTX 4070 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RTX 3080 is about 4.3% higher by score (RTX 3080: 24500 points / RTX 4070: 23500 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 has 10GB of VRAM, while RTX 4070 has 12GB; RTX 4070 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 and Core i9-10900K with RTX 4070 (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
