Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU (NVIDIA, 2023) and GeForce RTX 3060 (NVIDIA, 2021) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: RTX 4060 Laptop GPU is about 2.3% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM RTX 3060（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 4060 Laptop GPU | RTX 3060 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 17,500 | 17,100 |
| VRAM | 8GB | 12GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | RTX 40 | RTX 30 |
| Release Year | 2023 | 2021 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Core i7-1365U | Ryzen 3 3300X |
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 3060 also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | RTX 4060 Laptop GPU |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | RTX 3060 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | RTX 3060 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RTX 4060 Laptop GPU is about 2.3% higher by score (RTX 4060 Laptop GPU: 17500 points / RTX 3060: 17100 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 4060 Laptop GPU has 8GB of VRAM, while RTX 3060 has 12GB; RTX 3060 has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, Core i7-1365U pairs well with RTX 4060 Laptop GPU and Ryzen 3 3300X with RTX 3060 (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
→ RTX 4060 Laptop GPU Details ／ RTX 3060 Details ／ Compare Another Combination
