1660 Super vs 3060 12GB: Which GPU Reigns Supreme?
The world of graphics cards is always abuzz with new releases and upgrades, and two of the most popular options in the market right now are the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super and the GeForce RTX 3060 12GB. Both GPUs have their own strengths and weaknesses, but which one should you choose? In this article, we'll dive into the details and compare the 1660 Super vs 3060 12GB to help you make an informed decision.
Performance
When it comes to raw performance, the GeForce RTX 3060 12GB is the clear winner. With its Ampere architecture and 12GB of GDDR6X memory, it offers significantly higher frame rates and better performance in demanding games and applications. The 3060 12GB is capable of delivering up to 48 GB/s of memory bandwidth, compared to the 1660 Super's 336 GB/s.
In terms of clock speeds, the 3060 12GB has a higher boost clock of up to 1770 MHz, compared to the 1660 Super's 1785 MHz. Additionally, the 3060 12GB has more CUDA cores, with 5888 cores compared to the 1660 Super's 2560 cores.
Power Consumption
One of the key differences between the two GPUs is power consumption. The GeForce RTX 3060 12GB has a TDP of 170W, compared to the 1660 Super's 125W. This means that the 3060 12GB requires more power to operate, which can be a concern for those with limited power supplies or those who are looking to build a more efficient system.
Ray Tracing and AI
The GeForce RTX 3060 12GB is a member of the RTX family, which means it supports real-time ray tracing, AI-enhanced graphics, and other advanced technologies. The 1660 Super, on the other hand, does not have these features.
Price
The price of the two GPUs is another significant difference. The GeForce GTX 1660 Super is generally priced around $229, while the GeForce RTX 3060 12GB can cost upwards of $499.
Conclusion
So, which GPU should you choose? If you're looking for raw performance and are willing to pay a premium for it, the GeForce RTX 3060 12GB is the clear winner. However, if you're on a budget and still want a powerful GPU, the GeForce GTX 1660 Super is a great option.
Comparison Table
| GeForce RTX 3060 12GB | GeForce GTX 1660 Super | |
|---|---|---|
| Memory | 12GB GDDR6X | 6GB GDDR6 |
| Memory Bandwidth | 48 GB/s | 336 GB/s |
| CUDA Cores | 5888 | 2560 |
| Boost Clock | Up to 1770 MHz | Up to 1785 MHz |
| TDP | 170W | 125W |
| Ray Tracing | Yes | No |
| AI-Enhanced Graphics | Yes | No |
| Price | $499+ | $229 |
Ultimately, the choice between the GeForce RTX 3060 12GB and the GeForce GTX 1660 Super depends on your specific needs and budget. We hope this comparison has helped you make a more informed decision.
