Graphics card selection often involves weighing two critical factors: memory and performance. Let’s go into the RTX 3060 12GB performance and compare it with RTX 4060, comparing their VRAM capacities and performance across various games and settings. With the focus on “More VRAM vs. More Power,” What is more important in gaming more vram or more power? let’s explore how these GPUs work.
Key Specifications:
- RTX 3060 12GB: Equipped with 12GB GDDR6 video memory or VRAM, this card excels in handling games with high memory demands.
- RTX 4060: Boasts newer architecture and higher clock speeds but is limited to 8GB of VRAM.
Both GPUs are tailored for 1080p and 1440p gaming, but the VRAM difference significantly impacts performance in modern games. Let us see how so.
The Impact of More VRAM: RTX 3060 12GB Performance
Games that demand over 8GB of VRAM show RTX 3060 12GB’s strength. Titles like Dragon Age: The Veilgard at 1440p Ultra settings with ray tracing showed smoother frame rates and better 1% lows on the RTX 3060 compared to the RTX 4060. The RTX 4060 struggled with frame-time spikes and texture loading issues due to its limited VRAM.
Key Findings in This VRAM-Demanding Scenarios:
- The RTX 3060 consistently avoided stutters and texture popping at higher settings.
- The RTX 4060 required turning down settings or relying heavily on DLSS to maintain performance.
When Performance Takes the Lead and RTX 4060 Advantages
In scenarios where VRAM demands are moderate, the RTX 4060 pulled ahead with its newer architecture and power efficiency. In games at medium settings or those optimized for lower VRAM, RTX 4060 deliver higher frame rates.
Key Findings in Performance-Focused Scenarios:
- The RTX 4060 dominated in titles like Call of Duty and Cyberpunk 2077 with DLSS enabled, where the game needs lower VRAM
- At 1080p Medium settings, the RTX 4060 offered an average of 20% higher frame rates.
Testing Highlights: Game Benchmarks
Dragon Age: The Veil
- At 1440p Ultra settings, the RTX 3060 provided a smoother experience, avoiding VRAM-related stutters.
- Switching to Medium settings narrowed the gap, with the RTX 4060 pulling ahead in performance.
Final Fantasy 16
- High-resolution textures pushed the RTX 4060 to its limits, leading to frame drops.
- The RTX 3060 maintained consistent performance with fewer texture-loading issues.
Horizon Forbidden West
- At Very High settings, the RTX 3060 handled extended gameplay better, avoiding spikes in frame times.
- Medium settings saw the RTX 4060 excel due to its raw processing power.
Cost-Effectiveness: Value for Gamers
- RTX 3060 12GB: Priced slightly lower, this card is ideal for budget gamers who prioritize memory-intensive titles.
- RTX 4060: Offers better efficiency and performance for modern games but struggles in VRAM-heavy scenarios.
More VRAM vs More Power : Which Is More Inportant?
The choice between more VRAM or more power depends on what your gaming needs:
- In modern AAA games with higher VRAM demands, the RTX 3060 12GB provides a smoother experience.
- For competitive and esports titles, the RTX 4060 is the better option due to its superior raw performance and offers more framerates than the later.
Ultimately, NVIDIA’s decision to reduce VRAM in the RTX 4060 raises questions about future generational improvements. With every passing month, we see games demanding more and more video memory than before. In this situation, gamers can only hope for a better balance in the upcoming RTX 50-series.
While the RTX 3060 proves its worth in memory-demanding games, the RTX 4060 highlights the importance of architectural improvements. Gamers must weigh their preferences for performance vs. VRAM when choosing the right GPU for their setup or spend a little more for the next series of cards according to their budget. If you are going to only game on your machine instead of using it as a workstation for video editing and such, another option could be ditching Nvidia and opt for an AMD card which offers more VRAM than its NVIDIA counterpart.
Check out our other graphics card reviews.
