NVIDIA logo
Buy on Amazon logo
$279
New
VS
NVIDIA logo
Buy on Amazon logo
$1679
New

Aggregate performance score

We've compared GeForce RTX 3060 and GeForce RTX 4080, covering specs and all relevant benchmarks.

GeForce RTX 3060
20
12GB , 170W
GeForce RTX 4080 +221%
64
16GB , 320W

GeForce RTX 4080 outperforms GeForce RTX 3060 by a significant 221% based on our aggregate benchmark results.

Summary

We compared two graphics cards: the GeForce RTX 3060 with 12GB VRAM (Ampere architecture), against the GeForce RTX 4080 with 16GB VRAM (Ada Lovelace architecture). The GeForce RTX 3060 offers significantly better value for money with a 87% higher value score. The GeForce RTX 3060 is more power-efficient, consuming 170W compared to 320W. 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 RTX 3060

87% better value score (31 versus 17)
47% lower power consumption (170W versus 320W)
$1400 lower current price ($279 versus $1679)

Reasons to consider the GeForce RTX 4080

221% higher 3DMark score (28,063 versus 8,739)
33% more VRAM: 16GB versus 12GB

Value Score Comparison

Price-to-performance value analysis

GeForce RTX 3060
+87% better value
31
GeForce RTX 4080
17

Benchmarks

Performance comparison across 1 common benchmarks

3DMark synthetic

GeForce RTX 3060
8,739
GeForce RTX 4080
+221%
28,063

Technical Specifications

Side-by-side hardware comparison

Specification GeForce RTX 3060 GeForce RTX 4080
Architecture Ampere Ada Lovelace
VRAM Size 12 GB 16 GB
TDP 170W 320W
Current Price $279
New • Amazon
$1679
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 4080. For energy efficiency and lower power consumption, the GeForce RTX 3060 is the better choice. If you plan to game at higher resolutions or use VRAM-intensive applications, the GeForce RTX 4080 with 16GB 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.