Are they still relevant in 2025?
The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050, released in 2022, remains a viable option in 2025 for those looking for a budget graphics card. Available in both RTX 3050 6GB and RTX 3050 8GB, this GPU based on the Ampere architecture promises decent performance at 1080p. In my opinion, it's not the best choice one can aspire to today: you'll be able to play in 1080p without problems and maybe in 1440p with adjustments, but its value is usually high for what it offers, especially compared to alternatives such as the RX 6600 from AMDIn this review, we'll explore how these RTX 3050 graphics cards perform in gaming, graphic design, and more, comparing them to competitors like the GTX 1660 Super or the RX 6600, so you can decide if they're worth it for your PC in 2025.
Technical specifications of the NVIDIA RTX 3050
| Specification | RTX 3050 (8GB) | RTX 3050 (6GB) |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Ampere | Ampere |
| CUDA Cores | 2560 | 2304 |
| VRAM | 8GB GDDR6 | 6GB GDDR6 |
| Bandwidth | 128 bits (224 GB/s) | 96-bit (168 GB/s) |
| Boost frequency | 1777 MHz | 1470 MHz |
| TDP | 130W | 70W |
| Video entries | HDMI 2.1, DP 1.4a | HDMI 2.1, DP 1.4a |
Both versions of the RTX 3050 include ray tracing and DLSS 3, but the 8GB is aimed at more robust gaming, while the 6GB prioritizes efficiency and low consumption.
NVIDIA RTX 3050 performance in gaming and creation
1080p and 1440p Gaming: What Can You Expect?
The RTX 3050 graphics cards offer acceptable performance at 2025 for 1080p thanks to DLSS 3, although their capabilities at 1440p are limited:
| Game | Resolution | Configuration | FPS (8GB) | FPS (6GB) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cyberpunk 2077 | 1080p | Medium + DLSS Performance | 50-60 FPS | 40-50 FPS |
| Fortnite | 1080p | High + DLSS Quality | 90-110 FPS | 75-90 FPS |
| Starfield | 1080p | Half | 45-55 FPS | 35-45 FPS |
| Call of Duty: Warzone | 1440p | Medium + DLSS Quality | 55-65 FPS | 45-55 FPS |
The RTX 3050 8GB handles games well in 1080p with high settings, while the RTX 3050 6GB HE is left behind in demanding titles. Personally, these GPUs have aged pretty poorly for 2025: while you can play at 1080p, don't expect great fluidity in modern games or a significant jump over options like the RX 6600, which for a similar price offers 20% to 40% more efficiency.
Productivity and creation: Key differences
The NVIDIA RTX 3050 8GB uses its 8GB of VRAM to basic video editing at 1080p/1440p with programs like Premiere or DaVinci Resolve, taking advantage of NVENC. The RTX 3050 6GB is more limited, ideal only for light tasks like photo editing or short 1080p videos.
Is it good for graphic design?
The RTX 3050 could be used for graphic design in 2025, but with nuances:
- RTX 3050 8GBWorks for 2D design in Photoshop or Illustrator and basic 3D rendering with Blender (small scenes). Its 8GB and CUDA cores allow for intermediate projects like motion graphics in After Effects.
- RTX 3050 6GB: Suitable for basic 2D design or photo editing, but its limited VRAM slows down tasks such as 3D rendering or complex animations.
- What you can doWith the 8GB, you can create detailed illustrations or edit short 1440p videos; with the 6GB, you're limited to web design or light editing. In my opinion, it's fine for lightweight projects, but I wouldn't recommend it due to its cost: there are more powerful options for a similar price.
Comparison: RTX 3050 vs competitors
| Feature | RTX 3050 (8GB) | RTX 3050 (6GB) | GTX 1660 Super | RX 6600 | RX 6500 XT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VRAM | 8GB GDDR6 | 6GB GDDR6 | 6GB GDDR6 | 8GB GDDR6 | 4GB GDDR6 |
| TDP | 130W | 70W | 125W | 132W | 130W |
| FPS at 1080p (Ultra) | 50-60 FPS | 40-50 FPS | 45-55 FPS | 65-80 FPS | 35-45 FPS |
| Price in 2025 (approx) | $250 USD | $180 USD | $200 USD | $230 USD | $150 USD |
- RTX 3050 8GB: Positive: DLSS 3 and ray tracing beat the GTX 1660 Super. Negative: Loses out to the RX 6600 in raw power.
- RTX 3050 6GB: Positive: Low power consumption compared to the RX 6500 XT. Negative: VRAM and performance lower than the RX 6600.
- RX 6600: It offers 20-40% more FPS than the RTX 3050 8GB for a competitive price, without DLSS but with excellent efficiency.
Power supplies for NVIDIA RTX 3050
RTX 3050 8GB: 130W TDP, requires fountain 400W minimum (450W ideal). RTX 3050 6GB: TDP of 70W, works with 300W (400W recommended).
Suggested models:
- Corsair CX450 – Efficiency for 6GB.
- EVGA 500 W1 – Stability for the 8GB.
- Seasonic S12III 550W – Good ventilation for both.
Best NVIDIA RTX 3050 Models
| Model | Refrigeration | Overclocking | Build quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| NVIDIA Founders Edition (8GB) | Double fan | Standard | Elegant and efficient |
| ASUS TUF RTX 3050 (8GB) | Triple fan | Moderate | Robust and silent |
| MSI Ventus 2X (6GB/8GB) | Double fan | Moderate | Compact and functional |
| Gigabyte Eagle (6GB) | Double fan | Standard | Solid and economical |
Conclusion: Is the NVIDIA RTX 3050 worth it in 2025?
The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 remains a viable option in 2025 for those looking for economy, with the RTX 3050 8GB performing well at 1080p and the RTX 3050 6GB standing out for efficiency in compact PCs. The RTX 3050's price tag (from $$180 to $$250 USD) makes them affordable, But in my opinion, they are not a purchase I would recommend right away: they have aged badly, and alternatives like the RX 6600 offer more for a similar cost.. Of course, if you find a good offer or a used At a competitive price, they could be a reasonable option depending on your needs and budget.
