Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 vs Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 leads Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 overall by 17 points (87 vs 70 out of 100).
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 stands out on Core Specifications Base Frequency: 2.505 GHz, Core Specifications Base Power: 320 W, Core Specifications Maximum Frequency: 2.505 GHz.
- Best value: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 (from $329) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 leads overall
$1,199 at launch
Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080
87
Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060
70
Best value: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 ($329)
Why it stands out
- Core Specifications Base Frequency: 2.505 GHz
- Core Specifications Base Power: 320 W
- Core Specifications Maximum Frequency: 2.505 GHz
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080
The GeForce RTX 40 series is a family of consumer GPUs from Nvidia's GeForce line, succeeding the RTX 30 series. The cards are based on the Ada Lovelace architecture and include third-generation RT cores for ray tracing and fourth-generation Tensor Cores.
Best for High-end computingBest for Graphics processing
Pros
- Features native support for DirectX Direct3D 12.0 Ultimate (feature level 12_2)
- Includes a new generation of Optical Flow Accelerator to aid DLSS 3.0 frame generation
- Supports DisplayPort 1.4a and HDMI 2.1 display connections
Cons
- The RTX 4080 12GB was noted for potential failures related to the 12VHPWR connector.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060
The Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 is a discrete graphics card designed for modern gaming and content creation. Utilizing the architecture needed for advanced visual effects, it allows users to simulate realistic lighting, shadows, and reflections. This product provides a solid balance of performance and accessibility for mainstream PC users.
Best for 1080p GamingBest for General Content CreationBest for Hybrid Rendering
Pros
- Offers hardware acceleration features necessary for advanced rendering techniques, such as ray tracing.
- Supports various APIs including CUDA, which is beneficial for professional content creation.
- Benchmarks placing it within the popular third-generation RTX lineup.
Cons
- Performance compared to newer generation cards may limit high refresh rate experiences in demanding titles.
- Ray tracing capabilities, while present, require hybrid rendering approaches for optimal performance.
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080
Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Nvidia GeForce RTX 408035,129
Nvidia GeForce RTX 306017,018
Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.
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Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side