GeForce RTX 4070 Super vs GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB

Winner:
GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB
Main Difference:
Greater VRAM capacity and newer architectural features for better long term software support
Page Summary:
GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB offers a superior value proposition for modern gaming by pairing a more accessible $429 MSRP with a substantial 16GB VRAM buffer and next-generation architectural enhancements that prioritize efficient high-resolution upscaling and long-term driver support over raw legacy muscle.
Last updated:
January 31, 2026

The Essentials

GeForce RTX 4070 Super

MSRP:
$599
See Current Price
Spec Sheet:
Core Count:
7168
Thread Count:
Base Clock:
1980 MHz
Boost Clock:
2475 MHz
Integrated Graphics:
VRAM:
12.0 GB
L3 Cache:
12.0 GB
TDP:
220 W
Socket:
192 bit
Bus Width:
192 bit
Release Date:
2024-01-08
Gaming Scores:
(Higher is better)
Resolution
Rasterization
Ray Tracing
1080p
67.2
64.2
1440p
55.8
49.7
4K
40.1
40.1
Gaming and Productivity Scores:
(Higher is better)
Gaming
Productivity

GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB

MSRP:
$429
See Current Price
Spec Sheet:
Core Count:
4608
Thread Count:
Base Clock:
2407 MHz
Boost Clock:
2572 MHz
Integrated Graphics:
VRAM:
16.0 GB
L3 Cache:
16.0 GB
TDP:
180 W
Socket:
128 bit
Bus Width:
128 bit
Release Date:
2025-04-16
Gaming Scores:
(Higher is better)
Resolution
Rasterization
Ray Tracing
1080p
53.5
48.7
1440p
43.6
37.7
4K
33.6
30.7
Gaming and Productivity Scores:
(Higher is better)
Gaming
Productivity
Note about scores:
We measure this card's performance against the absolute best GPU currently available. The numbers show the percentage of performance you get compared to the market leader at 1080p, 1440p, and 4K resolutions, with the leader at 100. These scores are aggregated from a wide range of different games to create a reliable average. However, keep in mind that performance in specific titles may deviate from this average depending on how that game is optimized.
Note about scores:
We measure this processor's performance against the absolute best CPU currently available. The numbers show the percentage of performance you get compared to the market leader in both gaming and workstation tasks, with the leader at 100. These scores are aggregated from a wide range of different games and applications to create a reliable average. However, keep in mind that performance in specific software may deviate from this average depending on how that program is optimized.

Performance Deep Dive

GeForce RTX 4070 Super
Gaming Analysis:

The GeForce RTX 4070 Super occupies a clear sweet spot for high-resolution gaming. It provides the horsepower needed to keep movement fluid at high settings without forcing a compromise on visual clarity. While it can handle 4K, the hardware reaches its limits at that resolution, making it a secondary choice for those with a high-refresh UHD monitor. When pushed to 1080p, the card is overkill and will likely result in a scenario where the CPU becomes the primary speed limit rather than the GPU.

Memory capacity defines the longevity of this card. With 12GB of GDDR6X VRAM on a 192-bit bus, you have a solid buffer that handles modern AAA textures well. You avoid the stuttering or texture pop-in that can impact cards with lower memory pools in demanding titles. However, the architecture is not a permanent solution for 4K. If you try to run extreme resolution texture packs at native 4K, the 192-bit bus width can lead to uneven frame delivery when the data volume exceeds the bandwidth.

Ray tracing is a realistic option with this card rather than a simple checklist item. Because of the 56 dedicated third-generation RT cores in the Ada Lovelace architecture, you can enable complex reflections and global illumination at 1440p without the experience turning into a slideshow. The lighting remains stable and shadows stay defined. If the native hardware calculations start to struggle, DLSS 3 Frame Generation acts as a safety net, using hardware-level optical flow to help maintain smooth motion even when light calculations are heavy.

  • 1440p Performance: This is the native home for this GPU, offering crisp movement and high responsiveness in almost every modern title.
  • 4K Viability: It serves as an entry-level 4K solution, though it relies heavily on upscaling technology to maintain a comfortable experience.
  • Ray Tracing Reality: Hardware-accelerated lighting is fully playable across common resolutions, ensuring reflections and shadows look sharp.
  • VRAM Ceiling: 12GB is sufficient for high settings today, but it represents the card's boundary for future 4K texture demands.
  • Power Management: This card runs efficiently, though a 650W power supply is the recommended floor for a stable system.
GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB
Gaming Analysis:

The GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB serves as a specialized tool for mid-range builds that addresses memory constraints found in previous generations. While it possesses enough power to make standard high-definition gaming feel effortless, the card finds its purpose by delivering stability at higher resolutions. The 16GB of GDDR7 memory acts as a safety net that allows you to increase texture settings in demanding titles without the sudden stutters or hitching that often impact cards with smaller buffers. It helps keep the image sharp and the frame delivery predictable during heavy action.

Ray tracing on this Blackwell hardware is a practical option for those who want enhanced lighting without sacrificing fluid movement. Because this architecture handles lighting calculations more efficiently, you can enable reflections or global illumination and still maintain a responsive experience. You likely won't see the performance fall away instantly when complex shadows or glass refractions appear on the screen. However, driving the highest resolutions remains a difficult task for the internal silicon. Without using software assists, the feel can become heavy and lose the snap required for fast-paced games.

  • The 16GB VRAM buffer is the standout technical choice here, ensuring you can load high-resolution textures without hitting a performance wall in future titles.
  • The Blackwell 2.0 architecture brings improved efficiency to lighting effects, allowing for richer visual depth compared to older mid-range options.
  • Standard rasterization provides a smooth experience in virtually any modern AAA title when using high settings at its target resolution.
  • The 128-bit bus is narrow, which means the card relies on its internal cache structure to maintain data flow and prevent bottlenecks.
  • A 550W power supply provides a reliable foundation for this GPU, as the card remains efficient even when pushed to its maximum boost clock.

For users sticking with older or lower-resolution monitors, this card provides significant headroom and will likely exceed the capabilities of the display. The real value is for someone who wants high visual fidelity and texture longevity without jumping to the cost of a flagship enthusiast card. It is a calculated mid-range pick that prioritizes smart architecture and memory capacity over a massive transistor count.

GeForce RTX 4070 Super
Productivity Analysis:

While the gaming side of this hardware focuses on visual fluidity, the GeForce RTX 4070 Super transitions into a stable workhorse for professional applications. Transitioning from high resolutions to heavy rendering requires a different kind of reliability, and the Ada Lovelace architecture provides a specialized environment through the CUDA ecosystem. This integration ensures that popular creative suites like Blender and common video editing platforms recognize the hardware immediately without tedious configuration. The stability of these drivers means you spend less time troubleshooting viewport glitches and more time finishing projects under a tight deadline.

The 12GB of VRAM serves as a middle ground for creators. For video editing, this capacity provides 1440p and 4K timelines with enough headroom to maintain smooth scrubbing even when multiple color layers or effects are applied. However, for 3D artists working with complex simulations or massive architectural environments, the memory buffer represents a clear boundary. If your scene data exceeds this limit, the system may rely on slower system memory, which impacts the responsiveness of your workflow. The 504.2 GB/s memory bandwidth helps keep transitions between assets quick, but the 192-bit bus width is something to keep in mind if your work consistently involves massive uncompressed files.

For those involved in video production and streaming, the dedicated hardware encoding support handles the heavy lifting of AV1 and HEVC compression. This allows the GPU to manage intense export tasks while leaving the CPU available to handle other software in the background. The inclusion of specialized hardware for AI-driven tasks makes a noticeable difference in modern tools like noise reduction in photography or intelligent mask generation in video suites. These processes happen with a level of speed that reduces the friction of repetitive creative tasks.

  • CUDA Integration: This provides a standardized foundation for rendering engines, ensuring broad compatibility and reliable performance across major creative software platforms.
  • Memory Headroom: The 12GB of memory offers a comfortable buffer for high-resolution video work and moderately complex 3D scenes without immediate resource bottlenecks.
  • Encoding Efficiency: Dedicated hardware support for AV1 allows for faster export times and high-quality streaming without taxing the rest of the system during production.
  • AI Acceleration: Specialized core hardware speeds up modern creative features like background removal or intelligent upscaling in various editing applications.
  • Thermal Stability: The design manages power effectively during long rendering sessions, preventing performance drops that occur when hardware gets too hot over several hours of use.
GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB
Productivity Analysis:

While the gaming benefits focus on fluid movement, the utility of the GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB shifts toward handling heavy data sets and complex visual projects. Moving from recreational play into 3D modeling or high-resolution video work requires a different focus on the hardware ceiling of the memory buffer. Many mid-tier options come with smaller memory capacities that can act as a bottleneck when loading dense architectural scenes or scrubbing through demanding 4K timelines. When a project exceeds available video memory, the system may begin swapping data to slower system RAM, which often results in visible stuttering and interrupted progress during a precise edit.

The 16GB of GDDR7 memory on this Blackwell 2.0 hardware provides a tactical advantage for those who need reliable performance without the expense of a flagship enthusiast card. It acts as a safety net that allows several professional applications to remain open simultaneously without the driver struggling under the weight of the VRAM demand. This card functions as an entry point for serious creative work because it avoids the hard limits that lower-capacity cards face when a project grows in complexity. Even with a 128-bit bus, the speed of the memory prevents the interface from feeling sticky when you are manipulating high-resolution textures in a real-time viewport.

  • The CUDA architecture provides a stable foundation for professional software, reducing the time spent troubleshooting driver compatibility issues during a project.
  • Dedicated 9th Gen NVENC encoders manage the heavy lifting of AV1 and H.265 exports, which prevents the CPU from becoming overwhelmed during a long render.
  • Hardware-accelerated ray tracing hardware allows for significantly faster frame completion in rendering engines like Blender compared to relying on the processor alone.
  • The FP16 compute performance helps AI-assisted tools like background removal or smart masking respond more quickly during intensive editing sessions.
  • A 550W power supply provides a stable base for this GPU, allowing it to maintain efficiency during extended multi-hour rendering marathons without creating excessive heat.

Choosing the NVIDIA ecosystem often comes down to reducing friction in professional software where the CUDA API remains a standard for stability. It is about the predictability of meeting a deadline without unexpected software crashes or hardware limitations. While the 128-bit bus might feel tight if you are attempting to edit raw 8K cinema footage, the throughput is reliable for those working primarily in 4K or 1440p environments. This is a utilitarian tool that prioritizes software compatibility and memory headroom over the high transistor counts and sheer power of top-tier enthusiast hardware. It stays cool and keeps the workflow moving forward.

GeForce RTX 4070 Super
Feature Analysis:

The 220W power draw places this hardware into a category where heat is manageable but still requires a thoughtful approach to airflow. Because the Ada Lovelace architecture is physically efficient, the cooling solutions found on most models tend to overbuild for the actual thermal output, allowing the system to maintain a steady temperature without the fans needing to reach high speeds. This results in a build that remains relatively quiet even when the system is under a heavy load for several hours. While you do not need an exotic cooling setup, ensuring your case has a clear path for intake and exhaust will prevent the card from soaking the rest of your components in recycled warm air.

Power delivery relies on a single 16-pin connector which introduces a specific physical requirement for your cable management. If you are not using a power supply with a native cable for this standard, you will need to account for the space required by the included adapter. This adapter is often stiff and requires enough clearance between the GPU and the side panel of your case to avoid putting stress on the connection point. For a stable system that can handle sudden micro-bursts of energy during intense rendering or complex scenes, a 650W power supply provides the necessary electrical headroom to avoid unexpected shutdowns.

The memory configuration creates a specific ceiling for those who plan on keeping this build for several years. Having 12GB of VRAM is a comfortable amount for 1440p textures, yet it serves as a clear boundary if you intend to push into high-resolution 4K asset packs or heavy 3D modeling environments. While the PCIe 4.0 x16 interface ensures you are getting the full bandwidth available from your motherboard, the physical memory capacity remains the primary factor that will dictate when you might eventually need to lower texture settings in future software. It is a balanced tool for modern high-resolution gaming that rewards a clean installation and a high-quality power source.

  • Power Supply Requirements: A 650W unit is the ideal choice to ensure the system remains stable during transient power spikes without stressing the internal protections.
  • Cable Management: The 16-pin power connector requires careful routing and enough physical clearance to prevent sharp bends near the GPU input.
  • Physical Interface: The PCIe 4.0 x16 connection provides full bandwidth, making it a reliable fit for both modern and slightly older motherboards without sacrificing data speeds.
  • VRAM Longevity: The 12GB buffer is a solid middle ground that handles current high-resolution textures well but may require observation as software demands grow.
  • Thermal Profile: A 220W TDP means the card stays within reasonable temperature limits, allowing for a build that prioritizes lower noise levels.
GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB
Feature Analysis:

The 180W thermal design profile makes this hardware an easy fit for mid-sized builds because it does not demand the massive, three-slot cooling solutions found on enthusiast-tier cards. Even in cases with restricted airflow, the card remains manageable and is unlikely to heat up your other components during long sessions. This moderate power draw also simplifies the electrical requirements for your system. A 550W power supply provides a stable foundation and leaves enough room to handle the brief power spikes that occur when the hardware shifts into high gear during demanding scenes. Because the card uses a single 8-pin power connector, you can avoid the stiff and bulky adapter cables required by higher-end parts in the same generation.

Users on older platforms should pay attention to the PCIe 5.0 x8 interface because the reduced lane count can create a communication bottleneck on legacy motherboards. While modern systems handle this without issue, plugging this GPU into an older PCIe 3.0 slot might limit the available bandwidth and cause minor performance dips in memory-intensive scenarios. This design choice prioritizes efficiency on new hardware but requires a bit of awareness if you are upgrading a machine that is several years old. The 16GB VRAM buffer remains the primary feature for longevity, as it allows your build to handle high-resolution textures without hitting the hard limits that often plague cards with less memory capacity.

  • The standard 8-pin power connector ensures compatibility with most existing power supplies without needing specialized ATX 3.1 cables or adapters.
  • A 550W power supply is the recommended choice for a balanced build, providing a reliable power floor for both the GPU and a modern processor.
  • The PCIe 5.0 x8 wiring design is optimized for the latest motherboard platforms but suggests caution for those still running PCIe 3.0 systems.
  • Compact physical dimensions and a 180W TDP mean this card fits into smaller chassis without requiring an overhaul of your existing case fans.
  • The Blackwell 2.0 architecture and 16GB of GDDR7 memory provide a roomy overhead for 1440p textures that will last through several software cycles.

Building with this hardware is a relatively frictionless experience compared to the complexities of larger flagship cards. You do not have to worry about sagging PCBs or the physical clearance issues that often force builders to buy larger, more expensive cases. It is a utilitarian approach to a PC build that emphasizes easy installation and predictable cooling. Since the memory capacity is generous for its tier, the card avoids the stuttering issues that can appear when a system is forced to swap data between the GPU and slower system RAM. It serves as a reliable anchor for a mid-range machine that focuses on stability and thermal efficiency.

GeForce RTX 4070 Super
Full Tech Specs:
Feature Specification
Name GeForce RTX 4070 Super
MSRP $599
Release Date 2024-01-08
Chipset Manufacturer NVIDIA
Memory Size 12 GB
Memory Type GDDR6X
Memory Bus 192 bit
Memory Clock 1313 MHz
Memory Bandwidth 504.2 GB/s
Base Clock 1980 MHz
Boost Clock 2475 MHz
Shading Units 7168
Ray Tracing Cores 56
TMUs 224
ROPs 80
Pixel Rate 198 GPixel/s
Texture Rate 554.4 GTexel/s
Compute Power (FP16) 35.5 TFLOPS
Compute Power (FP32) 35.5 TFLOPS
Compute Power (FP64) 554.4 GFLOPS
Architecture Ada Lovelace
Process Size 5 nm
Interface PCIe 4.0 x16
Power Connectors 1x 16-pin
TDP 220 W
Suggested PSU 650 W
GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB
Full Tech Specs:
Feature Specification
Model Name GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB
MSRP $429
Release Date 2025-04-16
Manufacturer NVIDIA
Memory Size 16 GB
Memory Type GDDR7
Memory Bus 128 bit
Memory Clock 1750 MHz
Memory Bandwidth 448.0 GB/s
Base Clock 2407 MHz
Boost Clock 2572 MHz
Shading Units 4608
Ray Tracing Cores 36
TMUs 144
ROPs 48
Pixel Rate 123.5 GPixel/s
Texture Rate 370.4 GTexel/s
Compute Power (FP16) 23.7 TFLOPS
Compute Power (FP32) 23.7 TFLOPS
Compute Power (FP64) 370.4 GFLOPS
Architecture Blackwell 2.0
Process Size 5 nm
Interface PCIe 5.0 x8
Power Connectors 1x 8-pin
TDP 180 W
Recommended PSU 550 W

Final Verdict

The GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB represents a shift toward software-driven performance and longevity that makes it the smarter investment for most users. While the older architecture relies on raw power to get results, the Blackwell-based 5060 Ti introduces specialized hardware for more advanced frame synthesis that results in much smoother visuals in demanding games. The jump to 16GB of GDDR7 memory is a massive benefit for titles that push heavy texture assets or complex ray tracing effects. This extra overhead ensures you will not hit the stuttering issues that often plague cards with smaller buffers like the 12GB found on the 4070 Super. The newer memory standard also operates with better efficiency which helps keep the overall power draw low while maintaining high speeds.

It is true that the GeForce RTX 4070 Super holds a clear lead in pure rasterization performance due to its higher core count and wider memory bus. However, that card launched at a $599 MSRP and lacks the latest upscaling breakthroughs exclusive to the newer generation. Users looking for a balance between initial cost and future compatibility will find the $429 MSRP of the 5060 Ti much easier to justify for a mid-range build. The move to PCIe 5.0 support and updated display outputs further solidifies its position as a card designed for the next several years of hardware evolution. Even though the raw horsepower favor the more expensive model, the combination of a larger VRAM pool and smarter architectural tech makes the 5060 Ti the overall winner for value-conscious gamers.

  • Buy GeForce RTX 4070 Super if you insist on the highest possible raw performance in older titles without upscaling or have professional rendering workloads that scale specifically with higher CUDA core counts.
  • Buy GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB if you want the best performance-per-dollar at the $429 MSRP and require 16GB of VRAM to ensure modern titles run without memory-related hitches for years to come.

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