NVIDIA logo
Buy on Amazon logo
$279
New
VS
NVIDIA logo
Buy on Newegg logo
$999
New

Aggregate performance score

We've compared GeForce RTX 3060 and GeForce RTX 5080, covering specs and all relevant benchmarks.

GeForce RTX 3060
20
12GB , 170W
GeForce RTX 5080 +272%
74
16GB , 360W

GeForce RTX 5080 outperforms GeForce RTX 3060 by a significant 272% 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 5080 with 16GB VRAM. Both graphics cards offer competitive value for their respective price points. The GeForce RTX 3060 is more power-efficient, consuming 170W compared to 360W. 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

53% lower power consumption (170W versus 360W)
$720 lower current price ($279 versus $999)

Reasons to consider the GeForce RTX 5080

4% better value score (33 versus 31)
272% higher 3DMark score (32,530 versus 8,739)
33% more VRAM: 16GB versus 12GB

Value Score Comparison

Price-to-performance value analysis

GeForce RTX 3060
31
GeForce RTX 5080
+4% better value
33

Benchmarks

Performance comparison across 1 common benchmarks

3DMark synthetic

GeForce RTX 3060
8,739
GeForce RTX 5080
+272%
32,530

Technical Specifications

Side-by-side hardware comparison

Specification GeForce RTX 3060 GeForce RTX 5080
Architecture Ampere N/A
VRAM Size 12 GB 16 GB
TDP 170W 360W
Current Price $279
New • Amazon
$999
New • Newegg

Conclusion

But if raw gaming performance and future-proofing are more important – go for the GeForce RTX 5080. 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 5080 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.