Nvidia’s recent announcement about launching the RTX 3050 6GB at an affordable price of $179 has made PC enthusiasts wonder if it is time to upgrade their GPUs. However, to make an informed decision for your devices, it is vital to understand the specifications, performance, and value of the GPUs you have in mind. If you are looking for a comparison between the RTX 3050 6GB and RTX 4050 performance, continue reading this guide. Here, we will compare the Nvidia RTX 3050 6GB vs Nvidia RTX 4050 (found in laptops) to see which one fits your needs in terms of performance.
We also have an Nvidia RTX 3050 6GB vs Nvidia RTX 2060 piece and the AMD Ryzen 5 8600G vs Ryzen 7 8700G APU comparison for you to check out. For now, though, let’s stay here and dive into the specs.
Nvidia RTX 3050 6GB vs Nvidia RTX 4050 – Specs comparison
Firstly, let’s take a look at the specs and components. The RTX 3050 6GB is based on Nvidia’s Ampere architecture, featuring an 8nm processor size and 8,700 million transistors as a discrete desktop graphics card. In comparison, the RTX 4050 adopts the newer Ada Lovelace architecture with a smaller 5nm processor size and a significantly higher transistor count of 18,900 million. These architectural differences suggest improved efficiency and performance potential for the RTX 4050, which makes sense for it being native to laptops and not available for individual purchase.
| Specifications | Nvidia RTX 3050 6GB | Nvidia RTX 4050 |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Ampere | Ada Lovelace |
| Processor size | 8 nm | 5 nm |
| Transistors | 8,700 million | 18,900 million |
| Base clock speed | 1042 MHz | 2505 MHz |
| Max boost clock speed | 1470 MHz | 2640 MHz |
| Memory clock | 1750 MHz14 Gbps effective | 2250 MHz18 Gbps effective |
| Memory size | 6 GB | 6 GB |
| Memory bus | 96 bit | 96 bit |
| Bandwidth | 168.0 GB/s | 216.0 GB/s |
| Shading units | 2304 | 2560 |
| Core/SM count | 18 | 18 |
| TDP (Watt) | 70 W | 150 W |
| L1 cache | 128 KB (per SM) | 128 KB (per SM) |
| L2 cache | 2 MB | 32 MB |
| Price | $179 | $249 |
In terms of clock speeds, the RTX 4050 boasts higher base and boost clock frequencies compared to the RTX 3050 6GB. With a base clock of 2505 MHz and a boost clock of 2640 MHz, the RTX 4050 offers superior raw processing power, potentially leading to better overall performance in demanding applications and games.
Both GPUs have 6GB of VRAM and a 96-bit memory bus. However, the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 utilizes faster memory modules, with a memory clock of 18 Gbps effective, resulting in higher memory bandwidth (216.0 GB/s) compared to the RTX 3050 6GB’s 14 Gbps effective memory clock and 168.0 GB/s bandwidth.
The RTX 4050 also boasts more shading units (2560) and a larger L2 cache (32 MB) compared to the RTX 3050 6GB, potentially enhancing its rendering capabilities and overall efficiency. The TDP (Thermal Design Power) of the RTX 4050 is notably higher at 150W compared to the RTX 3050 6GB’s 70W, reflecting the power consumption differences between desktop and laptop GPUs.
Nvidia RTX 3050 6GB vs Nvidia RTX 4050 – Performance comparison
Both GPUs feature 6GB of GDDR6 memory, which offers ample graphical horsepower for mainstream gaming titles and multimedia tasks. These GPUs leverage Nvidia’s recent architectures to provide ray tracing capabilities and AI-driven enhancements, enabling lifelike visuals and smoother FPS and gameplay experiences.
However, third-party performance benchmarks indicate significant differences between the RTX 3050 6GB and the RTX 4050. The benchmark results indicate that the RTX 4050 outperforms the RTX 3050 6GB across various test results, including G3D Mark and Geekbench. The RTX 4050’s higher clock speeds, increased shading units, and faster memory contribute to its superior performance scores.
When it comes to Geekbench performance, the RTX 4050 scores 72224, whereas the RTX 3050 6GB scores 54594. As you can see, there’s a difference of over 30% in both GPUs. The case is similar to the G3D Mark performance scores. The Nvidia RTX 4050 makes it to 14693, while the RTX 3050 6GB manages to get to only 10556.
Nvidia RTX 3050 6GB vs Nvidia RTX 4050 – Price
In terms of pricing, the RTX 3050 6GB launched at $179, while the RTX 4050 is available in laptops priced up to over $1,000 – showing the mobile credentials it comes with. While the RTX 4050 naturally commands a ‘higher price tag’ (again, you can’t buy one separately), its superior performance and efficiency make it a compelling option for users seeking high-end laptop graphics. However, if you need a cheap desktop GPU to play entry-level games on an older system without it needing extra power from a strained PSU then the 3050 6GB makes some sense.
When was the Nvidia RTX 3050 6GB released?
The GeForce RTX 3050 6 GB was finally released on its launch date of February 2, 2024. This mid-range graphics card by Nvidia is built on the 8 nm process, and based on the GA107 graphics processor. Additionally, its support of DirectX 12 Ultimate means the model will likely be a popular one with fans and critics alike. Be sure to check availability at your favorite retailer.
Final verdict
The Nvidia RTX 4050 offers superior performance and efficiency compared to the RTX 3050 6GB, making it an excellent choice for users prioritizing performance in a laptop form factor. And if it’s mobile you’re looking at then it makes sense if you want a productivity system that can game some as well. However, for desktop users on a tight budget, the RTX 3050 6GB remains a compelling option for entry-level gaming and productivity tasks. Ultimately, the choice between the two GPUs depends on your specific requirements and budget constraints.
