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Buy on Amazon logo
$398
New
VS
NVIDIA logo
Buy on Amazon logo
$279
New

Aggregate performance score

We've compared GeForce GTX 1060 5GB and GeForce RTX 3060, covering specs and all relevant benchmarks.

GeForce GTX 1060 5GB
9
5GB , 120W
GeForce RTX 3060 +124%
20
12GB , 170W

GeForce RTX 3060 outperforms GeForce GTX 1060 5GB by a significant 124% based on our aggregate benchmark results.

Summary

We compared two graphics cards: the GeForce GTX 1060 5GB with 5GB VRAM (Pascal architecture), against the GeForce RTX 3060 with 12GB VRAM (Ampere architecture). The GeForce RTX 3060 offers significantly better value for money with a 219% higher value score. The GeForce GTX 1060 5GB is more power-efficient, consuming 120W compared to 170W. On this page, you will find detailed benchmark comparisons, technical specifications, value score analysis, and key differences to help you choose the right graphics card for your needs and budget.

Key Differences

An overview of the main advantages of each graphics card

Reasons to consider the GeForce GTX 1060 5GB

29% lower power consumption (120W versus 170W)

Reasons to consider the GeForce RTX 3060

219% better value score (31 versus 10)
124% higher 3DMark score (8,739 versus 3,908)
140% more VRAM: 12GB versus 5GB
$119 lower current price ($279 versus $398)

Value Score Comparison

Price-to-performance value analysis

GeForce GTX 1060 5GB
10
GeForce RTX 3060
+219% better value
31

Benchmarks

Performance comparison across 1 common benchmarks

3DMark synthetic

GeForce GTX 1060 5GB
3,908
GeForce RTX 3060
+124%
8,739

Technical Specifications

Side-by-side hardware comparison

Specification GeForce GTX 1060 5GB GeForce RTX 3060
Architecture Pascal Ampere
VRAM Size 5 GB 12 GB
TDP 120W 170W
Current Price $398
New • Amazon
$279
New • Amazon

Conclusion

If value for money and price-to-performance ratio are your top priorities, then choose the GeForce RTX 3060. But if raw gaming performance and future-proofing are more important – go for the GeForce RTX 3060. If you plan to game at higher resolutions or use VRAM-intensive applications, the GeForce RTX 3060 with 12GB VRAM provides more headroom. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the GeForce RTX 3060's lower 279 price point. Both graphics cards have their strengths, so choose based on your specific gaming needs, budget constraints, and performance requirements.