RTX 3060 12GB vs RTX 5060 8GB: which graphics card should you buy?
RTX 5060 8GB is about 19% faster in demanding games at 1440p, where the graphics card sets the frame rate. RTX 3060 12GB costs less per frame. The RTX 3060 12GB has more video memory, which matters for 1440p, 4K and high textures.
RTX 3060 12GB vs RTX 5060 8GB FPS in popular games
ExactRig forecasts, paired with a top processor so the card decides. Competitive games use competitive settings, others balanced settings.
| Game | Resolution | RTX 3060 12GB | RTX 5060 8GB |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fortnite | 1080p | 196 | 256 |
| Fortnite | 1440p | 144 | 190 |
| Valorant | 1080p | 532 | 632 |
| Valorant | 1440p | 293 | 377 |
| Counter-Strike 2 | 1080p | 401 | 510 |
| Counter-Strike 2 | 1440p | 268 | 353 |
| Call of Duty: Warzone | 1080p | 96 | 124 |
| Call of Duty: Warzone | 1440p | 58 | 73 |
| Cyberpunk 2077 | 1080p | 64 | 89 |
| Cyberpunk 2077 | 1440p | 48 | 58 |
| Elden Ring | 1080p | 60 | 60 |
| Elden Ring | 1440p | 42 | 45 |
| Apex Legends | 1080p | 237 | 278 |
| Apex Legends | 1440p | 124 | 160 |
| Baldur's Gate 3 | 1080p | 81 | 98 |
| Baldur's Gate 3 | 1440p | 42 | 58 |
Specifications side by side
Prices are planning estimates from our last saved data, not live store prices.
Which should you buy?
Pick the RTX 3060 12GB if you want the most frames for the money. Pick the RTX 5060 8GB if you want the highest FPS and the price gap fits your budget. The best choice still depends on your games and the rest of the build.
Related comparisons
Games tested: 8 popular titles. Forecasts are estimates and real results vary with drivers, settings, the condition of the hardware and the rest of the PC.