GPU Comparison: 1060 vs 1660
Introduction
The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 are two popular graphics cards that cater to different segments of the gaming market. Released in 2016 and 2019, respectively, these GPUs have distinct features, performance capabilities, and price points. In this article, we'll compare the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660, highlighting their differences and helping you decide which one is right for you.
Architecture and Performance
GTX 1060
The GTX 1060 is based on the Pascal architecture, which was a significant improvement over the previous Maxwell generation. It features 1280 CUDA cores, 80 texture units, and 48 ROPs (Render Outputs). The base clock speed is 1506 MHz, with a boost clock speed of 1708 MHz. The GTX 1060 has 6 GB of GDDR5 memory, with a memory bandwidth of 192 GB/s.
GTX 1660
The GTX 1660, on the other hand, is based on the TU116 architecture, which is a more power-efficient and modern design. It features 1408 CUDA cores, 88 texture units, and 48 ROPs. The base clock speed is 1530 MHz, with a boost clock speed of 1785 MHz. The GTX 1660 also has 6 GB of GDDR6 memory, with a memory bandwidth of 336 GB/s.
Performance Comparison
In terms of performance, the GTX 1660 is approximately 10-15% faster than the GTX 1060 in most modern games at 1080p and 1440p resolutions. The GTX 1660's increased CUDA core count, higher clock speeds, and faster memory bandwidth contribute to its performance advantage.
Power Consumption and Thermals
GTX 1060
The GTX 1060 has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 120W, with a recommended system power supply of 400W. Its maximum temperature is around 94°C.
GTX 1660
The GTX 1660 has a TDP of 125W, with a recommended system power supply of 350W. Its maximum temperature is around 87°C.
Price and Value
The GTX 1060 was launched at a price point of around $250-$300, while the GTX 1660 launched at around $200-$250.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the GTX 1660 offers better performance and power efficiency than the GTX 1060, making it a more attractive option for gamers who want a smooth 1080p and 1440p gaming experience. However, if you're on a tighter budget and can find a good deal on a GTX 1060, it's still a capable GPU that can handle modern games at lower settings.
Final Verdict
- GTX 1060: A good option for those on a tight budget, but may struggle with newer games at higher settings.
- GTX 1660: A better option for those who want a smooth gaming experience at 1080p and 1440p resolutions, with a more modern architecture and better power efficiency.
