Thursday, December 5, 2024
Laptops

4060RTX (Laptop) vs 3070RTX (Laptop)

Miguel Salas

Without DLSS 3 on, both offer similar performance at high wattages (TGP) at both 1440p and 1080p. Considering most games make use of DLLS3 and Frame generation, you’ll get more framerates with the 4060RTX as far as gaming is concerned. For those that do not want use DLSS3 or FFS, then the 3070RTX will outperform the 4060RTX. Temperatures are also lower with the 4060RTX. The 3070RTX also outperforms the 4060RTX at 4k gaming 

For 3D modeling and video editing and CUDA intensive tasks, the 3070RTX is the clear winner.

1. Specifications: 3070RTX vs 4060RTX

Specification RTX 4060 Laptop GPU RTX 3070 Laptop GPU
Architecture Ada Lovelace Ampere
CUDA Cores 3072 5120
Tensor Cores 96 160
RT Cores 24 40
Base Clock 1470 MHz 1110 MHz
Boost Clock 2370 MHz 1560 MHz
Memory Size 8 GB GDDR6 8 GB GDDR6
Memory Interface 128-bit 256-bit
Memory Bandwidth 288 GB/s 448 GB/s
TGP Range 35W – 115W 80W – 125W
Max TGP (Dynamic Boost) Up to 140W Up to 140W
Manufacturing Process 5nm 8nm

1. Architecture: Ada Lovelace (RTX 4060) vs. Ampere (RTX 3070)

  • RTX 4060:
    • Built on the Ada Lovelace architecture (5nm process), it offers better power efficiency, ray tracing performance, and support for DLSS 3 with frame generation.
    • Should be better for gaming with ray tracing and modern AI-accelerated tasks, particularly for titles optimized for DLSS 3.
    • Example: Games like Cyberpunk 2077 or Plague Tale: Requiem could see smoother gameplay due to DLSS 3 and improved ray tracing.
  • RTX 3070:
    • Based on the Ampere architecture (8nm process), it emphasizes raw performance and is less efficient but still powerful.
    • Should excel in compute-heavy tasks, especially for traditional rendering workflows that don’t leverage DLSS 3 or advanced AI tools.
    • Example: Tasks like Blender Cycles rendering or OctaneRender might benefit from the RTX 3070’s higher CUDA core count and raw processing capabilities.

2. CUDA Core Count

  • RTX 4060: 3,072 CUDA cores.
    • With fewer cores but architectural improvements, the RTX 4060 should perform well in AI-accelerated tasks and modern applications optimized for Ada Lovelace.
    • Example: Real-time AI-based effects in Adobe Premiere Pro might see notable efficiency gains due to Ada optimizations.
  • RTX 3070: 5,120 CUDA cores.
    • A higher CUDA core count should favor traditional workloads like GPU rendering or parallel compute tasks, where raw core numbers dominate.
    • Example: Running particle simulations or rendering dense 3D scenes in Maya may leverage the RTX 3070’s higher CUDA count effectively.

3. Tensor Cores

  • RTX 4060: 96 Tensor cores (3rd generation).
    • Should excel in tasks that rely on AI, thanks to the latest Tensor core design. Applications like Topaz AI tools or TensorFlow inference would benefit from its efficiency.
    • Example: AI-based upscaling in Topaz Gigapixel AI or real-time noise reduction in DaVinci Resolve.
  • RTX 3070: 160 Tensor cores (2nd generation).
    • While having more Tensor cores, the RTX 3070 might perform better in raw AI computation, such as training neural networks, where core count outweighs efficiency.
    • Example: Training large AI models on PyTorch may benefit from the 3070’s higher Tensor core count.

4. RT Cores

  • RTX 4060: 24 RT cores (3rd generation).
    • With architectural improvements, the RTX 4060 should perform well in real-time ray tracing, despite fewer RT cores.
    • Example: Creating real-time ray-traced previews in Unreal Engine 5 for game development workflows.
  • RTX 3070: 40 RT cores (2nd generation).
    • Higher RT core count may favor tasks requiring pre-rendered ray tracing, such as V-Ray or Arnold rendering.
    • Example: Architectural visualization projects using heavy ray-tracing workflows.

5. Clock Speeds

  • RTX 4060: Higher base (1,470 MHz) and boost clock (2,370 MHz).
    • Should perform well in applications where single-threaded performance or responsiveness is critical, such as video editing or interactive rendering.
    • Example: Timeline scrubbing in Adobe Premiere Pro might feel smoother due to the higher boost clock.
  • RTX 3070: Lower base (1,110 MHz) and boost clock (1,560 MHz).
    • May excel in multi-threaded workloads that benefit from its higher core count, such as physics simulations or large-scale rendering.
    • Example: Simulating complex particle systems in Houdini.

6. Memory Size and Bandwidth

  • RTX 4060: 8 GB GDDR6, 128-bit interface, 288 GB/s bandwidth.
    • The narrower memory interface may limit performance in memory-intensive tasks, but it should handle 1080p/1440p gaming and smaller workloads efficiently.
    • Example: Gaming at 1080p with medium to high settings is within the RTX 4060’s sweet spot.
  • RTX 3070: 8 GB GDDR6, 256-bit interface, 448 GB/s bandwidth.
    • Wider memory bandwidth should favor applications requiring heavy memory throughput, such as 4K video editing or high-resolution texture rendering.
    • Example: Editing a multi-layered 4K video or working with large CAD files in SolidWorks might benefit from the RTX 3070’s memory configuration.

7. TGP (Dynamic Boost)

  • RTX 4060: TGP ranges from 35W to 115W, up to 140W with Dynamic Boost.
    • Its efficiency should make it more consistent in laptops with limited cooling or during prolonged workloads.
    • Example: In thin-and-light laptops, the RTX 4060 might maintain performance longer without throttling.
  • RTX 3070: TGP ranges from 80W to 125W, up to 140W with Dynamic Boost.
    • Higher power draw may lead to better performance in laptops with robust cooling systems, especially for sustained workloads.
    • Example: High-end gaming laptops or workstations with superior thermal solutions could fully utilize the RTX 3070’s potential.

2. Benchmarks

 

Benchmark RTX 4060 Laptop RTX 3070 Laptop Difference
3DMark Time Spy Score 10,427 10,480 +0.5%
GeekBench 6 Compute Score 97,986 118,499 +21%
PassMark G3D Mark Score 17,652 15,450 -14%
GFXBench 5 Aztec Ruins High Tier 4K (FPS) 116.2 FPS 121.6 FPS +5%

Important Nuances to Consider

  • TGP Variations: Performance can vary significantly depending on the GPU’s TGP. Both the RTX 4060 and RTX 3070 Laptop GPUs support a TGP of up to 140W with Dynamic Boost, but configurations with lower TGPs (e.g., 80W or 115W) may impact real-world results. Higher TGP laptops will generally perform better, regardless of the GPU.
  • Cooling System: A robust cooling system is essential to sustain higher clock speeds and avoid throttling. Poor cooling solutions may level the playing field between these GPUs.
  • CPU Pairing: A powerful CPU reduces bottlenecks, particularly in compute-heavy tasks like rendering, where raw GPU performance can be impacted by the processor.

3DMark Time Spy

  • Scores:
    • RTX 4060: 10,427 points
    • RTX 3070: 10,480 points (~0.5% higher)
  • Interpretation:
    • The RTX 3070 and RTX 4060 perform almost identically in this DirectX 12 benchmark, highlighting similar capabilities in modern gaming scenarios.
    • The RTX 4060 may deliver smoother gameplay in DLSS 3-supported titles, where frame generation can significantly boost performance.
  • Nuances:
    • At lower TGPs (e.g., 80W), the RTX 4060’s efficiency may allow it to maintain performance better than the RTX 3070.
    • High-TGP configurations with robust cooling may favor the RTX 3070, leveraging its higher CUDA core count.

GeekBench 6 Compute

  • Scores:
    • RTX 4060: 97,986 points
    • RTX 3070: 118,499 points (~21% higher)
  • Interpretation:
    • The RTX 3070 demonstrates superior compute performance, showcasing its advantage in tasks requiring high CUDA core counts, such as image processing, simulations, or machine learning.
    • The RTX 4060 remains competitive in compute tasks optimized for Ada Lovelace architecture, particularly AI-driven workflows.
  • Nuances:
    • Applications leveraging Tensor cores and AI optimizations (e.g., Topaz AI or TensorFlow inference) may see better performance on the RTX 4060 due to its newer architecture.
    • Raw CUDA-heavy workloads will benefit from the RTX 3070’s higher core count.

PassMark G3D Mark

  • Scores:
    • RTX 4060: 17,652 points
    • RTX 3070: 15,450 points (~14% lower)
  • Interpretation:
    • The RTX 4060’s efficiency and architectural improvements allow it to outperform the RTX 3070 in this general-purpose GPU benchmark, emphasizing Ada Lovelace’s balance of power and efficiency.
    • This result highlights the RTX 4060’s potential for everyday gaming and productivity workloads.
  • Nuances:
    • The RTX 3070 may reclaim its edge in high-TGP configurations, particularly in laptops designed for sustained performance.
    • Applications relying on memory bandwidth (e.g., 4K rendering) may still favor the RTX 3070.

GFXBench 5 Aztec Ruins High Tier 4K

  • Scores:
    • RTX 4060: 116.2 FPS
    • RTX 3070: 121.6 FPS (~5% higher)
  • Interpretation:
    • The RTX 3070 slightly outperforms the RTX 4060 in this graphics-intensive test, reflecting its strength in rendering complex scenes with high visual fidelity.
    • The RTX 4060’s efficiency and DLSS 3 features may still make it more appealing for modern games with AI-enhanced rendering.
  • Nuances:
    • In systems with limited cooling, the RTX 4060 may deliver more consistent frame rates due to lower thermal output.
    • Titles optimized for Ada Lovelace features could narrow the performance gap in favor of the RTX 4060.

3. Performance

Gaming

High-TGP Configurations (140W RTX 4060 vs. 140W RTX 3070):

  • The RTX 3070 demonstrates better raw gaming performance at 1440p and 4K, leveraging its 256-bit memory interface and higher memory bandwidth for demanding workloads.
  • The RTX 4060, with DLSS 3, frame generation, and Ada Lovelace optimizations, often delivers comparable or superior performance in modern titles optimized for these features, particularly at 1080p and 1440p resolutions.
  • Example: In titles like Cyberpunk 2077, the RTX 4060 achieves smoother frame rates when DLSS 3 and frame generation are enabled, narrowing the gap or surpassing the RTX 3070 in certain scenarios.

Low-TGP Configurations (80W RTX 4060 vs. 80W RTX 3070):

  • The RTX 4060 is more consistent in thermally constrained environments, thanks to its architectural efficiency and higher clock speeds.
  • The RTX 3070, due to its higher power requirements, is more prone to throttling in laptops with limited cooling, potentially narrowing or reversing its advantage over the RTX 4060.
  • Example: In games with moderate GPU demands like Overwatch 2, the RTX 4060 maintains more stable frame rates, making it the better option in thin-and-light laptops.

Video Editing

High-TGP Configurations:

  • The RTX 3070 excels in 8K video editing workflows or projects with large video files, benefiting from its wider memory bandwidth and higher CUDA core count.
  • The RTX 4060 is competitive in 4K workflows, especially when leveraging AI-accelerated tools (e.g., Adobe Sensei), which improve efficiency and rendering times.
  • Example: Rendering a heavily edited 10-minute 8K video is faster on the RTX 3070, while a 4K project utilizing AI-driven effects in Adobe Premiere Pro is completed more efficiently on the RTX 4060.

Low-TGP Configurations:

  • The RTX 4060 performs better in light editing workflows (e.g., 1080p to 4K), where its efficiency and architectural improvements help maintain steady performance.
  • The RTX 3070 may struggle in laptops with constrained cooling systems, reducing its performance advantage and narrowing the gap with the RTX 4060.

3D Rendering and Modeling

High-TGP Configurations:

  • The RTX 3070 is better suited for memory-intensive rendering tasks in tools like Blender Cycles or V-Ray, taking advantage of its higher CUDA core count and memory bandwidth.
  • The RTX 4060 performs well in real-time rendering workflows, particularly those involving AI-assisted tasks like denoising or DLSS 3-supported visualization.
  • Example: Rendering a dense 3D scene in Blender is faster on the RTX 3070, while real-time previews and AI-accelerated effects in Unreal Engine 5 benefit more from the RTX 4060.

Low-TGP Configurations:

  • The RTX 4060 maintains efficiency and performs well in low-power scenarios, excelling in AI-assisted workflows and light modeling tasks.
  • The RTX 3070, due to higher power and thermal demands, may lose its edge in laptops with limited cooling, making the RTX 4060 a better choice for these environments.

AI-Assisted Applications

High-TGP Configurations:

  • The RTX 4060 benefits from its 3rd-generation Tensor cores and Ada Lovelace optimizations, excelling in AI workloads such as deep learning inference, image enhancement, and other AI-driven tools.
  • The RTX 3070, with its higher Tensor core count, remains strong in traditional AI compute tasks, such as neural network training.
  • Example: While training a neural network may run faster on the RTX 3070, inference tasks like image upscaling in Topaz AI are more efficient on the RTX 4060.

Low-TGP Configurations:

  • The RTX 4060 continues to shine in AI workflows even at lower power levels, maintaining consistent performance in constrained environments.
  • The RTX 3070 may lose its Tensor core advantage due to throttling or reduced architectural efficiency in low-TGP laptops.

General GPU Performance

High-TGP Configurations:

  • The RTX 3070 is more powerful for memory-bound tasks, such as high-resolution rendering or 4K gaming, where bandwidth and CUDA core count are critical.
  • The RTX 4060 offers better performance in modern applications that leverage DLSS 3, frame generation, and real-time AI features, making it a more future-proof choice.

Low-TGP Configurations:

  • The RTX 4060 is more consistent and reliable in low-power configurations, offering better efficiency and sustained performance in thermally constrained laptops.
  • The RTX 3070 may struggle in these scenarios, losing its performance edge due to higher power demands and thermal limitations.

Updated Systems (2025)

  • The wattage and cooling systems heavily influence performance in real-world scenarios. A high-TGP RTX 3070 laptop with excellent cooling can outperform an RTX 4060, but in thermally limited environments, the efficiency of the RTX 4060 often makes it the more reliable choice.
  • Features like DLSS 3 and frame generation make the RTX 4060 more competitive in modern gaming, while the RTX 3070 remains a powerhouse for traditional rendering and compute-heavy tasks.

Conclusions

The RTX 4060 and RTX 3070 are comparable in overall performance, with specific strengths based on use cases. The RTX 3070 excels in raw GPU-intensive tasks, while the RTX 4060 provides modern features like DLSS 3 and frame generation, making it a strong contender for modern gaming and AI-assisted workflows.

  1. TGP Configurations and Performance:
    • Performance varies significantly depending on TGP settings. High-TGP configurations of the RTX 3070 (e.g., 140W) generally deliver better performance in GPU-bound scenarios like 4K gaming and rendering. However, lower TGP configurations may see the RTX 4060 outperform due to its more efficient Ada Lovelace architecture.
    • For example, a 140W RTX 4060 can deliver excellent performance, especially in thermally constrained laptops where efficiency becomes critical.
  2. Thermal Management and Cooling:
    • RTX 4060 laptops tend to run cooler, making them better suited for laptops with limited cooling solutions. This ensures more consistent performance during prolonged gaming or rendering sessions.
    • The RTX 3070, while powerful, may struggle with thermal throttling in less robust cooling environments, potentially narrowing its performance gap with the RTX 4060.
  3. VRAM Capacity and Gaming Resolutions:
    • Both GPUs feature 8GB of VRAM, which is sufficient for 1080p and most 1440p gaming scenarios. However, some newer AAA titles and 4K gaming can exceed this limit, resulting in lower performance.
    • Gamers aiming for future-proofing should carefully consider the increasing VRAM requirements of upcoming games.
  4. CPU Pairing:
    • RTX 4060 laptops are commonly paired with newer CPUs (e.g., 13th Gen Intel or Ryzen 7000), minimizing potential bottlenecks in CPU-heavy tasks like gaming or complex simulations.
    • RTX 3070 laptops often come with older CPUs (e.g., 11th Gen Intel or Ryzen 5000), which may limit their overall potential in newer software and games.
  5. Modern Features and Future-Proofing:
    • The RTX 4060’s DLSS 3 and frame generation make it an excellent choice for future-proof gaming, delivering smoother experiences in supported games.
    • While the RTX 3070 lacks these features, its higher CUDA core count and memory bandwidth make it ideal for workloads that rely on raw GPU power, such as rendering or simulation tasks.
  6. Price-to-Performance Value:
    • RTX 3070 laptops are often discounted, making them an attractive option for users prioritizing raw performance at a lower price.
    • RTX 4060 laptops, however, typically offer better price-to-performance ratios at similar price points, with the added benefits of improved efficiency and modern gaming features.

Final Recommendation

  • Choose RTX 4060:
    • Best for modern gaming with DLSS 3, AI-driven applications, and users who value power efficiency and future-proof features.
    • Ideal for thin-and-light laptops or systems with constrained cooling.
  • Choose RTX 3070:
    • Best for workloads requiring raw GPU power, such as 4K gaming, rendering, or memory-intensive tasks.
    • A strong choice for high-TGP configurations in laptops with robust cooling systems, especially if available at a discounted price.

 

Author Profile

Miguel Salas
Miguel Salas
I am physicist and electrical engineer. My knowledge in computer software and hardware stems for my years spent doing research in optics and photonics devices and running simulations through various programming languages. My goal was to work for the quantum computing research team at IBM but Im now working with Astrophysical Simulations through Python. Most of the science related posts are written by me, the rest have different authors but I edited the final versions to fit the site's format.

Miguel Salas

I am physicist and electrical engineer. My knowledge in computer software and hardware stems for my years spent doing research in optics and photonics devices and running simulations through various programming languages. My goal was to work for the quantum computing research team at IBM but Im now working with Astrophysical Simulations through Python. Most of the science related posts are written by me, the rest have different authors but I edited the final versions to fit the site's format.

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