NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 12GB vs NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 is the faster card by roughly 4%. Here is how the two compare across every spec that matters for gaming.
| Specification | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 12GB | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance score | 24/100 | 25/100 |
| Tier | C | C |
| VRAM | 12 GB | 8 GB |
| Power draw (TDP) | 184 W | 180 W |
| Launch MSRP | $299 | $599 |
| Performance per $100 | 8.0 | 4.2 |
| Release year | 2021 | 2016 |
| DLSS | ✓ Yes | — No |
| FSR | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| XeSS | — No | — No |
| Ray tracing | ✓ Yes | — No |
Which should you buy?
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 is the stronger performer of the two, and it is the default choice if raw frame rate is what you care about. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 12GB carries more VRAM (12GB vs 8GB), which matters at 1440p and above and for texture-heavy titles. The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 draws 4W less, so it is easier on your power supply and case cooling — check the PSU calculator before committing. On launch pricing, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 12GB offers better performance per dollar.