GPU comparison · 1080p benchmark
RTX 3050 8GB recorded 102 FPS against 67 FPS for GTX 970 4GB. These are continuous 1080p benchmark averages, not predicted FPS in any particular game.
GTX 970 4GB
67Benchmark FPS at 1080p- Our rating
- 42.3 / 100
- Graphics memory
- 4GB
- Released
- September 2014
- GPUsed cards tested
- 73
RTX 3050 8GB
102Benchmark FPS at 1080p- Our rating
- 49 / 100
- Graphics memory
- 8GB
- Released
- January 2022
- GPUsed cards tested
- 26
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What does this comparison mean?
The desktop RTX 3050 8GB doubles the GTX 970's listed 4GB capacity and records a higher average. It is the 8GB version, so the separate 6GB RTX 3050's low-power design should not be assumed.
GTX 970 4GB has 4GB and RTX 3050 8GB has 8GB of graphics memory. Memory capacity, board dimensions, power connectors and the price of a particular used card are separate from this benchmark. Compare the exact item before deciding whether to upgrade.
The two GPUs in context
GTX 970 4GB
The GTX 970 launched in September 2014 as a Maxwell desktop GPU with 4GB of graphics memory. It is distinct from the GTX 980 and from the later Pascal-generation GTX 1070.
RTX 3050 8GB
The desktop RTX 3050 launched in January 2022 with Ampere architecture and 8GB of GDDR6. This row does not cover the separate 6GB version.
Release and feature sources: GTX 970 4GB source · RTX 3050 8GB source.
How the figures are compared
Both FPS figures come from the owner-supplied GPUsed benchmark dataset. GPUsed reports a continuous FurMark run at 1080p for its physical-card checks. The percentage compares the higher model average with the lower one using the original FPS values. Our rating uses a compressed scale, with the fastest GPU at 100; it is separate from the percentage difference. A benchmark result does not predict gaming FPS.
GPUsed reports its physical-card checks typically last 30 to 60 minutes while temperature and stability are checked. The owner supplied the model-level FPS workbook on 2 October 2026; this benchmark dataset was last reconciled 3 October 2026. Historical cards tested are separate from the number of FPS runs behind a model average. Full benchmark method.