Quick Answer
The GeForce RTX 3060 Ti and RTX 2070 SUPER are graphics cards from different generations but offer similar performance tiers. The RTX 3060 Ti generally provides slightly better performance in most modern games and supports newer features like PCIe 4.0. The RTX 2070 SUPER, while from the previous generation, remains a capable card for high-fidelity gaming.
GeForce RTX 3060 Ti vs GeForce RTX 2070 SUPER: Full Comparison
Introduction
When considering an upgrade or a new build, comparing graphics cards from adjacent generations can be a common scenario. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti and the RTX 2070 SUPER represent two compelling options that often appear in similar market segments. This comparison aims to break down their specifications, architectural differences, gaming performance, and feature sets to help clarify their positions. Understanding these details can assist in making an informed decision based on specific needs and system configurations.
Architecture and Specifications
The core difference between these two GPUs lies in their underlying architecture. The RTX 2070 SUPER is based on NVIDIA’s Turing architecture, while the RTX 3060 Ti utilizes the newer Ampere architecture. This generational shift brings changes in core counts, power efficiency, and feature support.
- RTX 2070 SUPER (Turing): Features 2560 CUDA Cores, 8 GB of GDDR6 memory on a 256-bit bus, and a typical boost clock around 1770 MHz. It supports PCIe 3.0.
- RTX 3060 Ti (Ampere): Equipped with 4864 CUDA Cores, 8 GB of GDDR6 memory on a 256-bit bus, and a typical boost clock around 1665 MHz. It supports the newer PCIe 4.0 interface.
While the RTX 3060 Ti has a significantly higher CUDA core count, its cores are structured differently within the Ampere architecture. Both cards share the same memory configuration, which is an important point of parity.
Gaming Performance
In terms of real-world gaming, performance is typically very close, with the RTX 3060 Ti holding a slight lead in many titles. The difference can vary depending on the game’s optimization and the resolution being played.
- 1080p & 1440p Gaming: At 1080p and 1440p resolutions, the RTX 3060 Ti generally offers a performance uplift of 5-15% over the RTX 2070 SUPER in many games. This makes both cards excellent choices for high-refresh-rate gaming at these resolutions.
- Ray Tracing & DLSS: Both cards support real-time ray tracing and NVIDIA’s DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling). Due to its more efficient 2nd generation RT Cores and 3rd generation Tensor Cores, the RTX 3060 Ti can typically handle ray-traced effects with a smaller performance penalty and benefits more from DLSS performance boosts.
- 4K Gaming: At 4K resolution, the 8GB frame buffer on both cards can become a limiting factor in newer, more demanding titles. Performance is often comparable, with settings adjustments frequently required for stable frame rates.
Power, Thermals, and Features
Efficiency and additional features are areas where the generational gap becomes more apparent.
- Power Consumption: The RTX 3060 Ti has a typical board power (TBP) of 200W, while the RTX 2070 SUPER is rated at 215W. This makes the newer card slightly more power-efficient for its level of performance.
- Thermal Design: Thermal performance is heavily dependent on the specific model from a board partner (cooler design). Both GPUs can run cool and quiet with adequate case airflow and a well-designed cooling solution.
- Feature Support: The RTX 3060 Ti supports PCIe 4.0, which can offer benefits in specific scenarios with compatible CPUs and motherboards, such as slightly faster data transfer from certain NVMe SSDs. It also supports newer features like NVIDIA Reflex and Broadcast, which are also available to the RTX 2070 SUPER via driver updates.
Comparison Table
| Feature | GeForce RTX 3060 Ti | GeForce RTX 2070 SUPER |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Ampere (GA104) | Turing (TU104) |
| CUDA Cores | 4864 | 2560 |
| VRAM | 8 GB GDDR6 | 8 GB GDDR6 |
| Memory Bus | 256-bit | 256-bit |
| Boost Clock (Typical) | ~1665 MHz | ~1770 MHz |
| Ray Tracing Cores | 2nd Generation | 1st Generation |
| Tensor Cores | 3rd Generation | 2nd Generation |
| PCIe Interface | PCIe 4.0 x16 | PCIe 3.0 x16 |
| Typical Board Power (TBP) | 200W | 215W |
| Key Technologies | DLSS, Ray Tracing, Reflex, Broadcast | DLSS, Ray Tracing, Reflex, Broadcast |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main performance difference between the RTX 3060 Ti and RTX 2070 SUPER?
The RTX 3060 Ti generally offers slightly better performance, typically in the range of 5-15% faster in many games at 1080p and 1440p resolutions. The gap can vary significantly depending on the specific game title and settings used.
Does the RTX 3060 Ti have better ray tracing performance?
Yes, due to its more efficient 2nd generation RT Cores, the RTX 3060 Ti typically handles ray tracing effects with a smaller performance impact compared to the RTX 2070 SUPER’s 1st generation RT Cores.
Is PCIe 4.0 support on the RTX 3060 Ti a major advantage?
For gaming, the difference between PCIe 3.0 and 4.0 is generally minimal with current titles. The benefit is more apparent in specific productivity workloads that involve large data transfers, provided the rest of the system (CPU, motherboard, SSD) also supports PCIe 4.0.
Which card is more power-efficient?
The RTX 3060 Ti is typically more power-efficient, with a lower typical board power (200W vs 215W) while delivering similar or slightly better performance, thanks to the newer Ampere architecture.
Final Thoughts
The GeForce RTX 3060 Ti and RTX 2070 SUPER are closely matched graphics cards from successive generations. The RTX 3060 Ti holds advantages in raw performance for most modern games, power efficiency, and newer architectural features like improved ray tracing cores and PCIe 4.0 support. The RTX 2070 SUPER, however, remains a very capable GPU that can deliver a high-quality gaming experience, particularly if found in a specific market situation. The choice between them often comes down to availability, specific pricing in your region, and whether the newer features and slight performance edge of the RTX 3060 Ti align with your requirements for a gaming or creative build.