1660 Super vs 1060 3GB: Which GPU Reigns Supreme?
The world of graphics cards can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing between different models. In this article, we'll pit the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super against the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 3GB to see which one comes out on top.
Architecture and Performance
The GTX 1660 Super is based on the TU116 architecture, which is a more modern and efficient design compared to the GP106 architecture found in the GTX 1060 3GB. This gives the 1660 Super a significant performance advantage, with a boost clock speed of up to 1785 MHz compared to the 1060's 1708 MHz.
In terms of performance, the 1660 Super is capable of handling more demanding games at higher resolutions. It's around 20-30% faster than the 1060 3GB in most modern games, making it a better choice for 1080p and 1440p gaming.
Memory and Bandwidth
The GTX 1060 3GB has, as its name suggests, 3GB of GDDR5 memory. While this was sufficient for its time, it's becoming increasingly inadequate for modern games that require more memory. The GTX 1660 Super, on the other hand, has 6GB of GDDR6 memory, which provides a significant memory bandwidth advantage.
Power Consumption and Noise
The GTX 1660 Super has a slightly higher TDP (125W) compared to the GTX 1060 3GB (120W), but it's still a relatively low-power card. In terms of noise, the 1660 Super is generally quieter than the 1060, thanks to its more efficient cooling system.
Price and Value
The GTX 1060 3GB is an older card, and its price has dropped significantly since its release. You can find it for around $150-200, which makes it a tempting budget option. The GTX 1660 Super, on the other hand, is a more modern card that typically retails for around $229-249.
Conclusion
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super is the clear winner in this comparison. Its modern architecture, higher memory bandwidth, and better performance make it a more attractive option for gamers. While the GTX 1060 3GB is still a viable budget option, it's no match for the 1660 Super's raw power and efficiency.
Recommendation
If you're looking for a budget GPU that can handle modern games at high resolutions, the GTX 1660 Super is the way to go. However, if you're on an extremely tight budget and don't mind sacrificing some performance, the GTX 1060 3GB is still a viable option.
Specifications
| GTX 1660 Super | GTX 1060 3GB | |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | TU116 | GP106 |
| CUDA Cores | 1408 | 1280 |
| Memory | 6GB GDDR6 | 3GB GDDR5 |
| Memory Bandwidth | 336 GB/s | 192 GB/s |
| Boost Clock | Up to 1785 MHz | Up to 1708 MHz |
| TDP | 125W | 120W |
Note: The specifications listed are for the reference models. Actual specifications may vary depending on the manufacturer and model.
