Graphics cards are one of the most important pieces of hardware for gamers. Because most PC enthusiasts are gamers, we must discuss graphics cards from time to time. Also, even though most computer tech channels usually discuss high-end graphics cards, lower-end GPUs are important. Therefore, today, let’s examine the RTX 3050 Vs RX 6600 graphics cards.
Due to their lower prices, these NVIDIA and AMD offerings are a great option to start your gaming adventures. Although, using either the RTX 3050 or the RX 6600 GPUs will provide you with 60 FPS at 1080P resolution. So, if you’re looking for something above that, we recommend checking out our RX 6600 XT Vs RTX 3060 article!
Key Takeaways
- Even though the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has a lower MSRP, its current price exceeds the AMD Radeon RX 6600’s.
- While the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 consumes more power, its temperatures are generally lower.
- Because the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has a greater base and boost clock, it offers better performance.
- Although both GPUs are great for entry-level 1080P gaming, neither can afford raytracing.
Comparing Specifications
Before we get into the gaming benchmark tests, it’s important to look at the on-paper specifications of both graphics cards. These specifications tell us what to expect, and we can create a performance-per-dollar ratio for both graphics cards.
| Name | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 | AMD RX 6600 |
|---|---|---|
| Node | Samsung 8nm | TSMC 7nm |
| Architecture | Ampere | RDNA 2.0 |
| CUDA Cores/Stream Processors | 2560 | 1792 |
| Core Clock | 1552 MHz | 1626 MHz |
| Boost Clock | 1777 MHz | 2491 MHz |
| Memory | 8GB GDDR6 | 8GB GDDR6 |
| Memory Clock | 14 Gbps | 14 Gbps |
| Memory Bandwidth | 224 GB/s | 224 GB/s |
| RT Cores | 20 | 28 |
| Tensor Cores | 80 | N/A |
| Transistors | 12 billion | 11.06 billion |
| TDP | 130W | 132W |
| Power Connector | 1 x 8 pin | 1 x 8 pin |
| Launch Year | January 27, 2022 | October 13, 2021 |
| MSRP | $249 | $329 |
| Current Price | $300 | $240 |
Firstly, looking at the table, there are multiple notable things within the raw specifications of both graphics cards. For example, the CUDA Core amount is significantly higher for the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050. However, the sole number of CUDA cores cannot be used for comparison because AMD uses a different technology.
Secondly, the difference in clock speeds is no joke either. To explain, the AMD RX 6600 has a higher base and boost clock. Although, the AMD RX 6600 won’t always run at over 2 GHz speeds. Also, the AMD RX 6600 has a slightly higher number of RT Cores but a lower number of transistors.
Lastly, looking at the price, there’s a noticeable price gap between both GPUs. While MSRP prices state a different story, we’ll only look at the current prices found online. Thus, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 costs ~25% more than the AMD RX 6600. So, the RTX 3050 needs to perform 25% faster to have better value than its competitor.
RTX 3050 Vs RX 6600 Gaming Benchmarks
In any case, after looking at the on-paper specifications, let’s get ready for the real deal. Because we’re comparing two graphics cards, the best way to compare their performance is through multiple games. That’s why we’re looking at the benchmarks conducted by Testing Games through a total of eight games. Above all, we can decipher both graphics cards’ performance per dollar value through these tests.
Testing Rig
- Processor: Intel Core i9 12900K
- Motherboard: MSI MPG Z690 Force
- RAM: XPG Lancer 5200 MHz 32 GB DDR5
- CPU Cooler: Be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4
- Storage: 2 x Samsung 970 EVO M.2 1TB
- Power Supply: Corsair RM850i 850W
- Graphics Card: Radeon RX 6600 & NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050
Starting with the processor, using the Intel Core i9 12900K will reduce any bottlenecks from the processor side. Because our main goal is to compare graphics cards, we don’t need any external variables ruining the benchmarks.
Furthermore, moving towards the motherboard, using the MSI MPG Z690 will provide better voltage control. Although we won’t look at overclocking, power delivery is a serious issue with high-end tech. Therefore, a powerful motherboard with stronger VRMs and MOSFETs is preferred.
Subsequently, RAM is an important part of the PC too. While the RAM doesn’t play a direct role in the FPS of a game, it can bottleneck the CPU and GPU through slower data cycles. Thus, the latest DDR5 RAM running at 5200 MHz is a great option.
Moreover, even if an AIO is not utilized, the Dark Hero Pro 4 should provide enough cooling for the processor. Although, because the processor is not the main concern for this benchmark, water cooling would have been the better option.
In any case, looking at the storage, utilizing the Samsung 970 EVO NVMe M.2 drive will decrease load times. In brief, the faster load times will further decrease frame times within the games.
Lastly, examining the power supply, using an 850W power supply is a must with an Intel 12th gen processor. Also, adding an RTX 3000 series card and an RX 6000 series card will only increase power usage. So, the higher watt power supply will ensure no problems with power delivery.
God of War
Beginning our benchmarks with God of War, the game is supremely popular amongst all forms of gamers. Also, seeing that God of War requires a high-end PC, it is the perfect game for GPU comparisons.
Firstly, looking at the GPU wattage, there is a visible gap between both mid-range graphics cards. But, even though the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 utilizes more power, at 135W, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 performs better. Similarly, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has a wattage utilization of 121W. Be that as it may, a higher wattage utilization should mean greater FPS, which is not the case in God of War.
Secondly, directly linked with wattage consumption, we have temperatures. While the AMD Radeon RX 6600 utilizes lower power, the temperatures of both GPUs are the same. Because the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 consumes higher power but has similar temperatures, we assume it has a better TDP. But we shall find out for sure through the other benchmarks.
Thirdly, reviewing the frame times, we see a major gap between both graphics cards. To explain, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has an average frame time of 29.4ms. On the other hand, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has an average frame time of 19.5ms. So, the Radeon RX 6600 has ~50.7% faster frames than its rival.
Lastly, as the power usage of the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 is higher, it should have a higher FPS. However, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has a significant advantage. With an average of 57 FPS compared to the 35 of the RTX 3050, the RX 6600 is ~62.8% faster. Thus, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has a better performance per dollar due to being ~25% cheaper.
Cyberpunk 2077
For the second game in our RTX 3050 vs RX 6600 gaming benchmarks, we have Cyberpunk 2077. Due to its extremely difficult-to-run requirements, Cyberpunk 2077 is a must-have game when benchmarking processors and graphics cards. Because we’re testing mid-range graphics cards, the game’s settings have been lowered to medium.
In any case, there is a major difference between the wattage usage of both graphics cards. In brief, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 consumes over 140W of power. On the other hand, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 consumes ~107W of power. So, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 should have higher temperatures and greater FPS under ideal conditions. But, as you can see, that does not seem to be the case.
Subsequently, looking at the temperatures, there is a slight difference in the temperatures of both GPUs. To explain, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has average temperatures up to 61C. Meanwhile, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has average temperatures up to 59C. Even though the AMD Radeon RX 6600 consumes significantly lower power, the temperature gap is almost non-existent. Thus, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has better thermal efficiency.
Additionally, while frame times aren’t the most important aspect of benchmarking tests, a huge gap can affect gaming performance. That is to say, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has an average latency of ~17.1ms. But, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has an average latency of ~13.7ms. So, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has ~24.8% faster frames. While the difference doesn’t matter in single-player games, competitive gamers need faster latencies.
In conclusion, talking about the average FPS, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has the lead by averaging 76 FPS. Meanwhile, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 averages 56 FPS. Overall, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 is ~35.7% faster than the RTX 3050 while also costing ~25% less.
Control
Moving on to one of the best raytracing games out there, we are looking at Control for the next benchmark. To that end, because Control requires a high-end graphics card, raytracing has been turned off for the sake of the benchmark.
Firstly, as we have noticed from the other titles, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has a massively higher power consumption. To explain, on the one hand, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 consumes 137W of power. On the other hand, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 consumes 119W of power. So, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 should perform better with higher temperatures.
Secondly, after the power consumption, we must look at the temperatures for both graphics cards. Because a higher wattage consumption is directly proportional to higher temperatures. However, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has an average temperature of 54C. Meanwhile, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has an average temperature of 59C. So, even with the higher power consumption, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has lower temperatures.
Thirdly, talking about the frame times, the gap between both graphics cards has slimmed down since the previous title. In brief, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 averages latencies of 13.4ms. Consequently, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 averages latencies of 12.7ms. So, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has ~5.5% slower frames than its opponent.
Lastly, we see that the AMD Radeon RX 6600 performs fairly better by analyzing the average FPS of both GPUs. For example, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 averages 70 FPS. Whereas the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has an average FPS of 84. Therefore, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 is ~20% faster than its rival. Although the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 costs 25% more, it’s 20% slower in rasterization performance.
Days Gone
After the beautiful raytracing game, we have Days Gone for our next benchmark. While the game is not extremely difficult to run, it requires a high-end GPU for max settings. For that reason, mid-high settings are utilized in the title.
By and large, we see similar statistics in power usage as we have in the previous titles. To explain, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 utilizes ~140W of power. On the other hand, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 utilizes ~119W of power. So, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 is extremely power efficient while providing amazing performance. However, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has shown better thermals.
Subsequently, looking into the temperatures, we see another victory for the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050. Although the AMD Radeon RX 6600 utilizes lower power, its temperatures are slightly higher than its opponent’s. In brief, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 averages 56C temperatures, but the AMD Radeon RX 6600 averages 64C. So, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has better thermal efficiency, while the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has better power efficiency.
Moreover, while frame times aren’t extremely important for single-player games, they are of the essence for competitive games. The AMD Radeon RX 6600 is much better than the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 regarding frame latencies. For example, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 averages latencies up to 13.6ms. Whereas the AMD Radeon RX 6600 averages 8.9ms latencies. Thus, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has ~52.8% faster frames than its competitor.
In conclusion, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 is ~40.8% faster than the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 by analyzing the FPS. To explain, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 averages 71 FPS, while the AMD Radeon RX 6600 averages 100 FPS. So, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has better performance per dollar value.
Forza Horizon 5
For our next RTX 3050 Vs RX 6600 benchmark test, we have Forza Horizon 5. While the game is not CPU intensive, it requires quite a high-end GPU to run at max settings. For that reason, Forza Horizon 5 is a great game to compare graphics cards.
Firstly, going through the power usage of both graphics cards, surprisingly, there isn’t much difference between both GPUs. In summary, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has an average power consumption of 107W. On the other hand, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has an average power consumption of 106W. So, we see that both graphics cards utilize the same amount of power.
Secondly, because higher power draw equates to higher temperatures, let’s look at which GPU has better thermal efficiency. To explain, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has an average temperature of 56C. Meanwhile, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has an average temperature of 60C. While the AMD Radeon RX 6600 utilizes less power, it’s 4C hotter than its competitor. Thus, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has better thermal efficiency.
Thirdly, talking about the frame times, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 miserably loses against the AMD RX 6600. For example, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has average frame latencies of up to 9.0ms. Similarly, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has average frame latencies of up to 7.1ms. Because of the difference, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has ~26.7% slower frames.
Lastly, we analyze the average FPS of both GPUs and realize that the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 is extremely slow. In brief, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 averages 102 FPS, while the AMD Radeon RX 6600 averages 154 FPS. Therefore, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 is ~50.9% faster than its rival.
Hitman 3
After looking through a heavy racing-type game, we have Hitman 3, a stealth-based game for the next title. While Hitman 3 is a few years old, it requires a high-end PC to run at ultra settings with raytracing. But because we’re testing mid-range GPUs, raytracing is disabled for the title.
In any case, talking about power usage, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 shows its high utilization once again. To explain, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has a power consumption of ~136W. On the other hand, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has a power consumption of ~106W. So, under ideal conditions, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 should be cooler and have a lower FPS than the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050.
Subsequently, both graphics cards show similar temperatures when we look at the temperatures. Even though the AMD Radeon RX 6600 utilizes significantly lower power, it is 1C hotter than its competitor. In brief, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has an average of 58C. Meanwhile, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has an average of 59C. Thus, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has better thermal efficiency.
Moreover, as we move towards the frame times, we realize there isn’t a big difference compared to before. For example, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX has latencies up to 8.4ms. Similarly, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has latencies up to 7.8ms. To that end, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050’s frames are ~7.6% slower.
In conclusion, as we check the average FPS of both graphics cards, we notice a massive difference in performance. In summary, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 averages 107 FPS. On the contrary, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 averages 143 FPS. Therefore, the RX 6600 is ~33.6% faster, while the RTX 3050 is ~25% costlier.
Horizon Zero Dawn
Now, coming towards an adventurous title with a lot of action, we have Horizon Zero Dawn for the next test. Because the game relies heavily on the graphics card, it’s perfect for GPU comparisons.
Firstly, going through the power usage, we see a slight gap in the power consumption of both graphics cards. To explain, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has a power consumption of ~121W. On the other hand, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has a power consumption of ~104W. For that reason, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 should get a lower FPS while staying cooler.
Secondly, looking at the temperatures, there is a marginal gap between the temperatures of both mid-range GPUs. For example, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has an average temperature of 61C. On the other hand, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has an average temperature of 60C. So, even with higher power consumption, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has similar temperatures as its rival. What’s more, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 is more thermally efficient than the AMD GPU.
Thirdly, moving toward the frame times, we notice that both graphics cards show horrible frame latencies. However, the frame times won’t deter gameplay because Horizon Zero Dawn isn’t competitive. Even so, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has average latencies of up to 15.5ms. Meanwhile, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has average latencies of up to 12.4ms. Thus, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has ~25% slower frames than its competitor.
Lastly, reviewing the FPS shows a big difference between both GPUs. In brief, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 averages 62 FPS. Whereas the AMD Radeon RX 6600 averages 78 FPS. Therefore, the RX 6600 wins the RTX 3050 Vs RX 6600 war with a whopping ~25.8% performance increment.
Microsoft Flight Simulator
For the last game in this series of benchmarks, we have Microsoft Flight Simulator. Because the game requires a high-end graphics card, it is a great title to compare graphics cards. Also, the open-world nature of Microsoft Flight Simulator requires a fast processor.
In any case, going through the power consumption of both GPUs, we see major differences in power consumption. To explain, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 consumes 136W of power. On the other hand, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 consumes ~103W of power. So, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 should perform better and have higher temperatures. However, the ideal conditions are barely met in the current benchmarks.
Subsequently, looking at the temperatures, there is a slight temperature gap between both graphics cards. In brief, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has an average temperature of 65C. Meanwhile, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has an average temperature of 62C. While the power consumption differences are significantly higher, the temperature gap is minimal. For that reason, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 is more thermally efficient.
Moreover, talking about the frame times, there is another massive gap in the frame latencies of both graphics cards. For example, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has average latencies of up to 19.5ms. Whereas the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has average latencies of up to 15.1ms. Thus, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 has ~29.1% slower frames than its opponent.
In conclusion, reviewing the FPS shows us a major difference in performance between both GPUs. In summary, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 averages 51 FPS. On the contrary, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 averages 66 FPS. Therefore, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 is ~29.4% faster than the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 in Microsoft Flight Simulator.
RTX 3050 Vs RX 6600 Gaming Benchmarks Verdict
Now that we have looked at eight games from different genres and companies, let’s see which GPU is better. Of course, these results are based on total performance increase, thermal efficiency, frame latencies, and performance per dollar value. Above all, because every consumer has personal preferences, we must consider every possibility while giving our verdicts.
Firstly, looking at the thermal efficiency of both graphics cards, we must observe the temperatures and power consumption. While most comparisons have simple results, these GPUs are slightly complicated. To explain, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 consumes more power, making it less power efficient. However, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 also has lower or similar temperatures to the AMD Radeon RX 6600. Thus, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 is more thermally efficient than its opponent.
Secondly, talking about the frame times, it is apparent that the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has significantly faster frames. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 is not your cup of tea if you’re a competitive gamer. Because of the slower frames, gamers will find it difficult to win competitive games where every second matters.
Thirdly, by reviewing the overall average FPS from all games, we see that the AMD Radeon RX 6600 is significantly faster. In brief, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 averages 554 frames in eight games. On the other hand, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 averages 758 frames in eight games. So, regarding faster performance, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 is the clear winner.
Lastly, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 costs ~25% more than the AMD Radeon RX 6600. In summary, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 is ~36.8% faster than the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050. So, not only do you save money by getting the AMD Radeon RX 6600, but you also get better performance.
Who Is This Article For?
To explain, the RTX 3050 Vs RX 6600 article is for consumers who cannot decide which GPU to buy. While both graphics cards open the gates to entry-level 1080P gaming, performance per dollar is important to understand. If you have the budget for a better GPU, we recommend going through our RTX 3060 Vs RTX 3070 article!
Nonetheless, we started the article with a simple on-paper comparison of the specifications of both GPUs. Not only does it allow us to get a rough idea of what to expect, but we can differentiate prices. What’s more, the price difference creates a gateway to calculate both graphics cards’ performance per dollar value.
Subsequently, after comparing the specifications, we looked at the testing rig for the benchmarks. Moreover, we focused on the frame times, power consumption, temperatures, and performance per dollar value for the game benchmarks.
Lastly, after discussing the benchmarks, we looked at the final verdict for both graphics cards. Although the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 is more thermally efficient, it consumes more power. Also, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 has significantly better performance while costing less.
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