The world of graphics cards is a realm of constant evolution, with new technologies and models emerging regularly. Among the plethora of options available, two models from NVIDIA have garnered significant attention: the GTX 1060 and the GTX 1660 Ti. Both have been popular choices among gamers and graphics enthusiasts, but the question remains – which one is better? In this article, we will delve into the details of each model, comparing their performance, features, and value to help you make an informed decision.
Introduction to the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti
The GTX 1060, released in 2016, was a mid-range graphics card based on the Pascal architecture. It offered a significant boost in performance compared to its predecessors and was widely adopted by gamers. On the other hand, the GTX 1660 Ti, launched in 2019, is based on the Turing architecture and is positioned as a more powerful and efficient alternative to the GTX 1060. The GTX 1660 Ti boasts improved performance, lower power consumption, and support for newer technologies.
Architecture and Performance
The architecture of a graphics card plays a crucial role in determining its performance. The GTX 1060 is built on the 16nm Pascal architecture, which was a significant improvement over the previous Maxwell architecture. However, the GTX 1660 Ti takes it a step further with the 12nm Turing architecture, offering better performance and power efficiency. The Turing architecture introduces several new technologies, including Tensor Cores and RT Cores, which enable advanced features like ray tracing and artificial intelligence-enhanced graphics.
In terms of raw performance, the GTX 1660 Ti outshines the GTX 1060. With its higher clock speeds and improved architecture, the GTX 1660 Ti offers around 20-30% better performance in most modern games. This means that the GTX 1660 Ti can handle more demanding games at higher resolutions and frame rates, making it a better choice for gamers who want a smooth and immersive experience.
Memory and Bandwidth
Memory and bandwidth are essential factors in determining the performance of a graphics card. The GTX 1060 comes with 6GB of GDDR5 memory, while the GTX 1660 Ti features 6GB of GDDR6 memory. The GDDR6 memory on the GTX 1660 Ti offers higher bandwidth and lower power consumption compared to the GDDR5 memory on the GTX 1060. This results in better performance in games that rely heavily on memory bandwidth.
Memory Comparison
| Model | Memory Type | Memory Size | Memory Bandwidth |
| — | — | — | — |
| GTX 1060 | GDDR5 | 6GB | 192 GB/s |
| GTX 1660 Ti | GDDR6 | 6GB | 336 GB/s |
As shown in the table above, the GTX 1660 Ti has a significant advantage in terms of memory bandwidth, which can result in better performance in games that require high memory bandwidth.
Power Consumption and Cooling
Power consumption and cooling are critical factors to consider when choosing a graphics card. The GTX 1060 has a TDP of 120W, while the GTX 1660 Ti has a TDP of 120W as well. However, the GTX 1660 Ti is more power-efficient due to its newer architecture, which means it can deliver better performance while consuming the same amount of power.
In terms of cooling, both graphics cards use a similar cooling system, with a single fan blowing air through a heatsink. However, the GTX 1660 Ti has a more advanced cooling system, with a larger heatsink and a more efficient fan design. This results in lower temperatures and quieter operation, making the GTX 1660 Ti a better choice for gamers who want a quiet and reliable graphics card.
Features and Technologies
Both the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti support a range of features and technologies, including DirectX 12, Vulkan, and OpenGL. However, the GTX 1660 Ti has an advantage in terms of newer technologies, including ray tracing and artificial intelligence-enhanced graphics. These features enable more realistic lighting and reflections, as well as improved performance in games that use AI-enhanced graphics.
Feature Comparison
The GTX 1660 Ti also supports NVIDIA DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling), which uses artificial intelligence to improve performance in games that support it. This feature can result in significant performance improvements, making the GTX 1660 Ti a better choice for gamers who want to take advantage of the latest technologies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the GTX 1660 Ti is the better choice for gamers who want a powerful and efficient graphics card. With its improved performance, lower power consumption, and support for newer technologies, the GTX 1660 Ti offers a better value proposition than the GTX 1060. While the GTX 1060 is still a capable graphics card, the GTX 1660 Ti is the better option for those who want to play the latest games at high resolutions and frame rates.
However, it’s worth noting that the GTX 1060 is still a good choice for gamers on a budget, or those who don’t need the latest and greatest features. The GTX 1060 is generally cheaper than the GTX 1660 Ti, and it can still deliver good performance in less demanding games.
Ultimately, the choice between the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient graphics card with the latest features, the GTX 1660 Ti is the better choice. But if you’re on a budget or don’t need the latest and greatest features, the GTX 1060 is still a good option.
What are the key differences between the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti graphics cards?
The GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti are two popular graphics cards from NVIDIA, but they belong to different generations and have distinct specifications. The GTX 1060 is a mid-range graphics card from the Pascal generation, released in 2016, while the GTX 1660 Ti is a mid-range graphics card from the Turing generation, released in 2019. The GTX 1660 Ti has a more powerful GPU, with 1408 CUDA cores, compared to the 1280 CUDA cores of the GTX 1060. Additionally, the GTX 1660 Ti has a higher boost clock speed and more memory bandwidth.
The differences in specifications result in varying performance levels between the two graphics cards. The GTX 1660 Ti generally offers better performance in modern games and applications, thanks to its more advanced architecture and higher clock speeds. In contrast, the GTX 1060 may struggle with more demanding games and applications, especially at higher resolutions and detail settings. However, the GTX 1060 is still a capable graphics card for less demanding games and applications, and it can be a more affordable option for those on a budget. Ultimately, the choice between the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti depends on individual needs and preferences.
How do the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti compare in terms of power consumption?
The GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti have different power consumption profiles, which can impact system build costs and overall efficiency. The GTX 1060 has a typical board power of 120 watts, while the GTX 1660 Ti has a typical board power of 120 watts as well. However, the GTX 1660 Ti tends to consume more power under load, especially during intense gaming sessions or compute workloads. This is due to its more powerful GPU and higher clock speeds, which require more energy to maintain.
Despite the similar typical board power ratings, the GTX 1660 Ti’s higher power consumption under load can result in increased heat generation and noise levels. To mitigate this, it’s essential to ensure adequate cooling and a sufficient power supply unit (PSU) when building a system with the GTX 1660 Ti. In contrast, the GTX 1060 tends to run cooler and quieter, making it a more suitable option for smaller systems or those with limited cooling capabilities. Nevertheless, both graphics cards can be powered by a single 6-pin PCIe power connector, making them relatively easy to integrate into most systems.
Which graphics card is better suited for 1080p gaming, the GTX 1060 or GTX 1660 Ti?
For 1080p gaming, the GTX 1660 Ti is generally the better option, offering higher frame rates and smoother performance in modern games. The GTX 1660 Ti’s more powerful GPU and higher clock speeds allow it to handle demanding games at 1080p with ease, often exceeding 60 frames per second. In contrast, the GTX 1060 may struggle with more demanding games at 1080p, especially at higher detail settings, and may require reducing graphics quality to maintain smooth frame rates.
The GTX 1660 Ti’s superior performance at 1080p makes it an excellent choice for gamers who want to play the latest titles at high frame rates. Additionally, the GTX 1660 Ti supports newer technologies like NVIDIA’s DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and Variable Rate Shading, which can further enhance performance and image quality in supported games. While the GTX 1060 can still provide a good gaming experience at 1080p, the GTX 1660 Ti is the better option for those seeking higher performance and future-proofing.
Can the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti handle 1440p gaming, and if so, how well?
The GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti can both handle 1440p gaming, but the level of performance varies significantly between the two graphics cards. The GTX 1660 Ti is generally capable of handling 1440p gaming with ease, often providing smooth frame rates and high image quality in modern games. However, the GTX 1060 may struggle with 1440p gaming, especially in more demanding titles, and may require reducing graphics quality or resolution to maintain playable frame rates.
The GTX 1660 Ti’s superior performance at 1440p makes it a better option for gamers who want to play at higher resolutions. The GTX 1660 Ti can often provide frame rates above 60 FPS in less demanding games, and around 40-50 FPS in more demanding titles. In contrast, the GTX 1060 may struggle to reach 30 FPS in demanding games at 1440p, making it less suitable for high-resolution gaming. Nevertheless, the GTX 1060 can still provide a good gaming experience at 1440p in less demanding games or with reduced graphics quality.
How do the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti compare in terms of features and technologies?
The GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti have different feature sets and technologies, reflecting their respective generations and architectures. The GTX 1660 Ti supports newer technologies like NVIDIA’s Turing architecture, DLSS, and Variable Rate Shading, which can enhance performance and image quality in supported games. The GTX 1660 Ti also supports more advanced display technologies like HDR and WCG (Wide Color Gamut). In contrast, the GTX 1060 is based on the older Pascal architecture and lacks support for these newer technologies.
The GTX 1660 Ti’s more advanced feature set makes it a better option for those seeking the latest technologies and innovations. The GTX 1660 Ti’s support for DLSS, for example, can provide significant performance boosts in supported games, while its Variable Rate Shading capabilities can enhance image quality and reduce power consumption. Additionally, the GTX 1660 Ti’s support for more advanced display technologies like HDR and WCG can provide a more immersive gaming experience. While the GTX 1060 still offers a good feature set, the GTX 1660 Ti’s more advanced technologies make it a more attractive option for gamers and enthusiasts.
Which graphics card is more future-proof, the GTX 1060 or GTX 1660 Ti?
The GTX 1660 Ti is generally more future-proof than the GTX 1060, thanks to its more advanced architecture and newer technologies. The GTX 1660 Ti’s Turing architecture provides a more efficient and scalable design, allowing it to handle more demanding workloads and newer technologies. Additionally, the GTX 1660 Ti’s support for newer technologies like DLSS and Variable Rate Shading can provide significant performance boosts and enhancements in supported games. In contrast, the GTX 1060’s older Pascal architecture may struggle with more demanding games and applications in the future.
The GTX 1660 Ti’s more future-proof design makes it a better option for those seeking a graphics card that can handle upcoming games and technologies. The GTX 1660 Ti’s more advanced architecture and technologies can provide a longer lifespan and more flexibility, allowing it to adapt to changing gaming and application requirements. While the GTX 1060 can still provide a good gaming experience, the GTX 1660 Ti’s more future-proof design makes it a more attractive option for gamers and enthusiasts who want to stay ahead of the curve.
What are the typical prices for the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti graphics cards?
The typical prices for the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti graphics cards vary depending on the region, retailer, and availability. However, the GTX 1060 is generally priced lower than the GTX 1660 Ti, reflecting its older architecture and lower performance. The GTX 1060 can often be found for around $200-$300, while the GTX 1660 Ti typically costs between $250-$400. It’s essential to note that prices can fluctuate over time, and sales or discounts may be available, so it’s crucial to research and compare prices before making a purchase.
The price difference between the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti reflects their respective performance levels and feature sets. The GTX 1660 Ti’s more advanced architecture, higher performance, and newer technologies justify its higher price point. However, the GTX 1060 can still provide a good value for those on a budget or with less demanding gaming needs. Ultimately, the choice between the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 Ti depends on individual needs, preferences, and budget constraints. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each graphics card and consider factors like performance, features, and price before making a decision.