Is the RTX 3060 12GB better than the RTX 2060 Super?

Let‘s get this out of the way first – when it comes to raw performance, the RTX 3060 12GB is certainly the faster, more advanced graphics card compared to the previous generation RTX 2060 Super. Powered by Nvidia Ampere architecture and the Samsung 8nm manufacturing process, the 3060 leaves the 2060 Super behind in nearly every gaming metric.

But should you upgrade your trusty 2060 Super or grab a discounted used model to save money? As usual, it depends! Read on for a detailed face-off on how these two excellent 1080p and 1440p GPUs compare.

Performance and Benchmark Breakdown

We‘ll start by examining how both cards hold up against each other in benchmarks and real-world game tests.

Synthetic Benchmarks

Across benchmarks like 3DMark and Passmark, the 3060 comes out with a solid 12-15% lead. These synthetic tests stress the GPU in different ways to gauge expected gaming prowess. So a good start for team 3060!

1080p Gaming

Cranking through real games shows tighter gaps but the 3060 remains in front:

The 3060 provides a 10% average uplift for the tested AAA games at 1080p. Both cards deliver well over 60 fps for smooth high refresh rate gaming. But the 3060 gives you more headroom for max fidelity.

1440p Gaming

As we increase the resolution to 1440p with maxed settings, the 3060 continues to extend its lead:

The extra memory bandwidth, RT and tensor core improvements give the 3060 architecture clear advantages in processing dense 1440p scenes.

Ray Tracing and DLSS Capabilities

The 3060 also showcase stronger ray tracing thanks to its enhanced RT core count – 30 vs 34 on the 2060 Super. And it takes full advantage of DLSS 3 frame generation to boost fps up to 4X in supported titles like Cyberpunk 2077.

That said, the 2060 Super remains no slouch, powering ray traced effects and DLSS at over 60 fps in many titles. But expect slower and choppier performance with settings maxed out.

The 3060‘s improved RT and Tensor cores give it an advantage for ray tracing and DLSS.

Power Efficiency and Thermals

The 3060 manages to beat the 2060 Super while drawing 10W less power too. And real-world testing shows the 3060 running significantly cooler overall:

So you can enjoy both increased fps and lower noise with the 3060.

Availability and Pricing

The key considerations now are scarcity and actual retail cost. Despite having an MSRP of $329, most custom 3060 models sell for $100+ over that when in stock due to huge demand. And cryptomining only worsens shortages.

In contrast, used 2060 Supers can often be snagged around $300 if you hunt for deals. So that extra VRAM and still stellar 1080p performance starts looking very appealing for budget upgraders!

Ultimately, at MSRP, the 3060 offers far better value. But with distorted pricing and rarity factored in, a cheaper 2060 Super ends up being the smarter buy for many.

The RTX 3060 12GB delivers approximately 15% faster 1080p and 20% faster 1440p frame rates compared to the previous generation RTX 2060 Super in modern games. Upgrades to the Ampere architecture coupled with a fast 12GB GDDR6 memory buffer give it consistently better benchmark marks and gaming metrics.

Ray tracing prowess is also improved thanks to more capable RT and tensor cores. And you can further boost fps via DLSS 3 on supported titles.

However, expect to pay an inflated premium for the 3060 right now. And if scored at current used prices, the 2060 Super still plays new titles admirably at high settings and reasonable resolutions.

So for max performance with future-proofing, yes – the RTX 3060 12GB certainly edges past the 2060 Super. But if bought used at a good discount, don‘t dismiss picking up an 2060 Super for stellar 1080p and 1440p gameplay!

Let me know if you have any other questions!