Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce RTX 5070 (NVIDIA, 2025) and GeForce RTX 3090 (NVIDIA, 2020) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: RTX 5070 is about 5.7% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM RTX 3090（24GB） 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 5070 | RTX 3090 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 28,000 | 26,500 |
| VRAM | 12GB | 24GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | RTX 50 | RTX 30 |
| Release Year | 2025 | 2020 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Core i7-13700K | Ryzen 9 7900 |
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 3090 also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | RTX 5070 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | RTX 3090 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | RTX 3090 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RTX 5070 is about 5.7% higher by score (RTX 5070: 28000 points / RTX 3090: 26500 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 5070 has 12GB of VRAM, while RTX 3090 has 24GB; RTX 3090 has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, Core i7-13700K pairs well with RTX 5070 and Ryzen 9 7900 with RTX 3090 (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
