When it comes to choosing a graphics card for optimal gaming performance, the decision often boils down to two popular options: the Nvidia GTX 1060 and the GTX 1660. Both cards belong to Nvidia’s lineup of mid-range GPUs and offer impressive capabilities for gaming enthusiasts. However, deciding between the two can be a daunting task, as they possess subtle differences in terms of architecture, features, and performance. In this article, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the GTX 1060 and the GTX 1660, exploring their respective specifications and assessing their gaming capabilities to help you make an informed decision tailored to your gaming needs.
GPU Architecture: Understanding The Difference Between GTX 1060 And GTX 1660
The architecture of a GPU is a key factor in determining its gaming performance. When it comes to the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660, their architectures showcase notable differences. The GTX 1060 is based on the Pascal architecture, offering excellent performance for 1080p gaming with its 1,280 CUDA cores and 6GB of GDDR5 memory.
On the other hand, the GTX 1660 features the Turing architecture, which is a step up in terms of performance and efficiency. With its 1,408 CUDA cores and 6GB of GDDR5 memory, the GTX 1660 provides enhanced gaming capabilities compared to its predecessor. The Turing architecture also brings improvements in shading, memory compression, and overall efficiency.
While both GPUs are capable of delivering smooth gameplay at 1080p, the GTX 1660’s superior architecture gives it the edge in terms of raw power and future-proofing. Gamers looking for a GPU that can handle more demanding games and potentially support higher resolutions in the future may find the GTX 1660 to be a better choice.
Performance Benchmarks: Analyzing The Gaming Capabilities Of GTX 1060 And GTX 1660
When it comes to gaming, performance is a crucial factor that gamers consider before investing in a new GPU. In this section, we will analyze the gaming capabilities of the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 through various performance benchmarks.
The GTX 1060, released in 2016, has been a popular choice among gamers for its impressive performance. However, the GTX 1660, released in 2019, brings some notable improvements. In terms of raw performance, the GTX 1660 outperforms the GTX 1060 in most games.
Benchmark tests reveal that the GTX 1660 offers a significant boost in frame rates compared to its predecessor. It shows superior performance in both 1080p and 1440p resolutions, making it a great choice for gamers seeking a smooth gaming experience at higher resolutions.
Moreover, the GTX 1660 performs exceptionally well in newer games that demand more graphical power. With its improved architecture and higher memory speed, it can handle graphically demanding titles with ease.
Overall, the performance benchmarks clearly indicate that the GTX 1660 provides a substantial leap in gaming capabilities over the GTX 1060, making it an excellent choice for gamers looking for optimal gaming performance.
VR And Ray Tracing: Exploring The Capabilities Of The GTX 1060 And GTX 1660
When it comes to VR and ray tracing, both the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 have their respective strengths and limitations. The GTX 1060, although a capable graphics card, lacks dedicated hardware support for ray tracing. This means that it won’t be able to harness the full potential of ray tracing technology, resulting in less realistic lighting and shadows in games that support it.
On the other hand, the GTX 1660 features improved architecture and Turing shaders, providing better performance when it comes to ray tracing. While not as powerful as the high-end RTX series, the GTX 1660 can still handle ray tracing effects in games at lower settings, allowing for a more immersive gaming experience.
In terms of VR, both cards are capable of delivering smooth and lag-free virtual reality experiences. However, the GTX 1660 offers a performance boost, thanks to its improved architecture and higher VRAM capacity compared to the GTX 1060. This translates to smoother gameplay and enhanced graphics in VR games.
Ultimately, if VR and ray tracing capabilities are high on your priority list, investing in the GTX 1660 will ensure a more future-proof and visually stunning gaming experience.
Power Consumption And Thermal Performance: A Comparison Between GTX 1060 And GTX 1660
The power consumption and thermal performance of a graphics card play a crucial role in determining its overall efficiency and longevity. When comparing the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660, it is important to consider these factors.
The GTX 1060, based on the Pascal architecture, has a TDP (thermal design power) of 120W. It utilizes a 16nm manufacturing process, which, although efficient for its time, consumes more power and generates more heat compared to newer architectures. Under heavy gaming loads, the GTX 1060 can reach temperatures of around 80-85 degrees Celsius.
On the other hand, the GTX 1660, based on Turing architecture, is more power-efficient. With a TDP of only 120W, it delivers better performance per watt compared to its predecessor. The GTX 1660 utilizes a 12nm manufacturing process, resulting in lower power consumption and reduced heat output. During intense gaming sessions, it typically operates at temperatures around 65-70 degrees Celsius.
Overall, the GTX 1660 offers superior power efficiency and thermal performance compared to the GTX 1060. It not only consumes less power but also runs at lower temperatures, ensuring a more stable and reliable gaming experience.
Cost And Value: Assessing The Price-to-Performance Ratio Of GTX 1060 And GTX 1660
When it comes to choosing between the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660, cost and value play a crucial role in the decision-making process. The price-to-performance ratio is a key indicator of whether the investment in a graphics card is worthwhile or not.
It’s important to note that the GTX 1060 is generally more affordable than the GTX 1660, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers. However, the GTX 1660 offers better overall performance and enhanced features, which can justify its higher price tag for many enthusiasts.
In terms of value, the GTX 1660 often delivers a better bang for your buck due to its improved performance and efficiency. It provides a significant boost in graphical power, allowing for higher frame rates and smoother gameplay compared to the GTX 1060. Additionally, the GTX 1660 offers support for newer technologies such as adaptive shading and faster GDDR6 memory, ensuring a more future-proofed gaming experience.
Ultimately, the cost and value analysis will depend on individual preferences and budget constraints. Gamers seeking the utmost in performance and longevity may find the GTX 1660 to be a worthy investment despite its higher price point, while those on a tight budget might be more inclined towards the budget-friendly GTX 1060.
Upgradability And Future-Proofing: Considering Longevity With GTX 1060 And GTX 1660
The upgradability and future-proofing of a graphics card are crucial factors to consider when making a purchase decision. With rapidly advancing technology, it is important to invest in a card that can keep up with the evolving gaming landscape.
When it comes to upgradability, the GTX 1660 offers a clear advantage over the GTX 1060. The GTX 1660 is built on NVIDIA’s Turing architecture, which is more advanced and supports newer technologies compared to the Pascal architecture of the GTX 1060. This means that the GTX 1660 is more likely to receive driver updates and optimizations in the future, ensuring compatibility with upcoming games and features.
Furthermore, the GTX 1660 comes with 6GB of GDDR6 VRAM, compared to the 6GB of GDDR5 VRAM in the GTX 1060. The newer GDDR6 memory type offers faster data transfer speeds, which can contribute to improved performance in future games that utilize more demanding graphics.
In terms of future-proofing, the GTX 1660 also supports hardware-accelerated ray tracing, albeit at a limited capacity compared to the more powerful RTX series. This means that while the GTX 1660 may not fully harness the benefits of ray tracing, it still has the capability to handle this feature to some extent, providing a more immersive gaming experience in select titles.
Overall, the GTX 1660 offers better upgradability and future-proofing compared to the GTX 1060, making it a more viable option for gamers looking to invest in a graphics card that will remain relevant in the years to come.
Final Verdict: Deciding Between GTX 1060 And GTX 1660 For The Ultimate Gaming Experience
When it comes to choosing between the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 for the ultimate gaming experience, the decision ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. Both GPUs offer impressive gaming performance, but there are a few key factors to consider.
In terms of raw performance, the GTX 1660 outperforms the GTX 1060 in most benchmarks. It offers higher clock speeds, more CUDA cores, and improved memory bandwidth, resulting in smoother gameplay and higher frame rates. If you’re a hardcore gamer and want the best performance available, the GTX 1660 is the clear winner.
However, if you’re on a tight budget, the GTX 1060 still holds its ground as a solid choice. It may not match the GTX 1660 in performance, but it is still a capable GPU for 1080p gaming. Plus, the GTX 1060 often comes at a lower price point, making it more accessible for budget-conscious gamers.
Ultimately, the decision between the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 boils down to your budget and gaming requirements. If you have the means and want the best possible performance, the GTX 1660 is the way to go. However, if you’re on a budget and can’t justify the higher cost, the GTX 1060 is still a reliable option for a satisfying gaming experience.
FAQs
1. Which graphics card is better for optimal gaming performance: the GTX 1060 or the GTX 1660?
The comparison between the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 shows that the latter is the better choice for optimal gaming performance. The GTX 1660 offers significant improvements in performance, featuring a newer architecture and higher clock speeds.
2. How does the performance of the GTX 1060 differ from the GTX 1660?
The performance of the GTX 1060 is noticeably inferior compared to the GTX 1660. The GTX 1660 provides a higher frame rate, smoother gameplay, and better visual quality due to its superior architecture and increased number of CUDA cores.
3. Is it worth upgrading from the GTX 1060 to the GTX 1660?
If you are looking for a significant boost in gaming performance, upgrading from the GTX 1060 to the GTX 1660 is definitely worth considering. The GTX 1660 offers better performance in terms of FPS (frames per second) and improved functionality in modern games.
4. What are the major advantages of the GTX 1660 over the GTX 1060?
Compared to the GTX 1060, the GTX 1660 has several advantages. It delivers higher clock speeds, increased VRAM capacity, improved energy efficiency, and better support for modern gaming features, such as Ray Tracing and DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling).
Final Verdict
In conclusion, when it comes to optimal gaming performance, the 1660 graphics card outshines the 1060. With its higher clock speeds, increased CUDA cores, and improved overall architecture, the 1660 delivers smoother gameplay, higher frame rates, and enhanced visual fidelity. While the 1060 may still be a capable choice for budget-conscious gamers, the 1660 provides a significant performance boost, making it the better option for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the latest gaming titles.