Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 vs Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 leads Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 overall by 20 points (90 vs 70 out of 100).
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 stands out on Core Specifications Base Frequency: 2.505 GHz, Core Specifications Base Power: 320 W, Core Specifications Maximum Frequency: 2.79 GHz.
- Best value: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 (from $329) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 leads overall
$999 at launch
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080
90
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: 2.79 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 5080
The GeForce RTX 5080 is a high-end enthusiast graphics card belonging to Nvidia's RTX 50 series. This series is based on the Blackwell architecture and succeeded the GeForce RTX 40 series. It features fourth-generation RT cores for real-time ray tracing acceleration and fifth-generation Tensor Cores.
Best for Enthusiast computingBest for High graphics demands
Pros
- Utilizes the Blackwell architecture, incorporating advanced RT cores and Tensor Cores
- Supports GDDR7 video memory for increased bandwidth compared to the RTX 40 series
Cons
- The card was announced alongside other products in January 2025.
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 5080
Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Nvidia GeForce RTX 508035,891
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