RTX 3050 vs RX 6500 XT: Specs, Price & Performance
The RTX 3050 is the faster card, about 10% ahead of the RX 6500 XT on 3DMark Time Spy. It currently costs $16.00 more than the RX 6500 XT. On price per frame, the RTX 3050 is the better value.
Spec & price comparison
| Spec | RTX 3050 | RX 6500 XT |
|---|---|---|
| Current price | $209.00 | $193.00 |
| MSRP | $249.00 | $199.00 |
| VRAM | 8GB | 4GB |
| Architecture | Ampere | RDNA 2 |
| Generation | RTX 3000 | RX 6000 |
| Power draw (TDP) | 130W | 107W |
| Recommended PSU | 550W | 550W |
| 3DMark Time Spy | 7,500 | 6,800 |
| 1080p gaming (avg FPS) | 60 fps | 54 fps |
| 1440p gaming (avg FPS) | 43 fps | 38 fps |
| Price per frame (1440p) | $4.86 | $5.08 |
Green marks the stronger figure per row. Benchmark and FPS values are representative 3DMark Time Spy and 1440p gaming averages; prices are live and update continuously.
Which should you buy?
For raw performance: the RTX 3050 leads by about 10% on Time Spy, making it the pick if you want the most frames at 1440p and 4K and can absorb the price.
For value: the RTX 3050delivers more frames per dollar at today's prices, so it is the smarter buy if you care about price-to-performance over outright speed.
Power and platform: the RTX 3050 draws 130W (≈550W PSU) versus 107W (≈550W PSU) for the RX 6500 XT. Factor the higher-wattage card's PSU and cooling needs into the total cost.
RTX 3050 vs RX 6500 XT FAQ
Is the RTX 3050 better than the RX 6500 XT?
RTX 3050 is the faster of the two, roughly 10% ahead on 3DMark Time Spy (7,500 vs 6,800). The RTX 3050 offers more frames per dollar, so the better choice depends on whether you are optimizing for outright performance or value.
How much do the RTX 3050 and RX 6500 XT cost right now?
The RTX 3050 is currently $209.00, and the RX 6500 XT is $193.00. GPU Drip compares eligible current offers across supported retailers. Amazon remains a link-only option and is not included in displayed price calculations.
Which is the better value, the RTX 3050 or the RX 6500 XT?
Measured by price per 1440p frame, the RTX 3050 is the better value at this moment ($4.86 per frame). Because GPU prices move, check the live figures above before buying.