GPU comparison · 1080p benchmark
RTX 3060 12GB recorded 142 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 3060 12GB
142Benchmark FPS at 1080p- Our rating
- 55 / 100
- Graphics memory
- 12GB
- Released
- February 2021
- GPUsed cards tested
- 179
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What does this comparison mean?
The RTX 3060 12GB triples the GTX 970's listed 4GB capacity and more than doubles its recorded FPS. It is the original 12GB Ampere model here, not the later 8GB version with the same headline name.
GTX 970 4GB has 4GB and RTX 3060 12GB has 12GB 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 3060 12GB
The original RTX 3060 combines Ampere architecture with 12GB of GDDR6. It launched in February 2021 and is distinct from the later 8GB configuration.
Release and feature sources: GTX 970 4GB source · RTX 3060 12GB 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.