Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into a classic GPU face-off: the GTX 1060 Super vs. GTX 1660 Super. These two graphics cards were absolute powerhouses back in their day, and even now, they still hold their own in the budget gaming scene. If you're looking to build a gaming PC on a budget or upgrade an older system, you've probably stumbled upon these two. Choosing between them can be a bit tricky, so we're here to break down everything you need to know. We'll cover their specs, performance in games, power consumption, and overall value, helping you decide which one is the best fit for your needs. So, grab your snacks, and let's get started!

Unveiling the Specs: GTX 1060 Super vs. GTX 1660 Super

Let's kick things off by taking a closer look at the raw specifications of both GPUs. Understanding the core components is crucial before we get into the performance benchmarks. Think of it like this: it's the foundation upon which the entire gaming experience is built. Both cards are designed for 1080p gaming, aiming for a smooth and enjoyable experience at that resolution. The GTX 1060 Super, part of the older Pascal architecture, and the GTX 1660 Super, from the newer Turing family, have distinct advantages and disadvantages due to their differing architectures and manufacturing processes. These differences directly impact their performance in games and other applications, so let's get into the nitty-gritty details. When we break down the specs, you can see how each card is designed to handle different workloads and gaming scenarios. This will help you identify the best GPU for your specific needs.

GTX 1060 Super Specs

The GTX 1060 Super, based on the Pascal architecture, was a significant step up from the original GTX 1060. It typically features 6GB of GDDR5 memory, providing ample bandwidth for textures and smooth gameplay. This extra memory helps in more demanding games. The core clock speeds of the GTX 1060 Super are respectable, allowing it to handle a wide range of games at 1080p. The card has a good number of CUDA cores, which are crucial for parallel processing tasks like rendering graphics in games. Its manufacturing process ensures a balance of performance and power efficiency, making it a favorite for many PC builders. While not the most advanced architecture, Pascal delivers solid performance for its time. It’s also important to note the power consumption; the GTX 1060 Super is relatively efficient, reducing the demand on your power supply. This makes it an excellent choice for budget builds where efficiency is paramount. The card’s design also includes a solid cooling system, keeping temperatures in check during intense gaming sessions. These cooling solutions vary based on the manufacturer, but they usually provide a reliable thermal management system. Overall, the GTX 1060 Super provides a good balance of performance, power, and cost, making it a well-rounded option.

GTX 1660 Super Specs

Moving on to the GTX 1660 Super, we see the advantage of the newer Turing architecture. It generally features 6GB of GDDR6 memory, which is faster and more efficient than the GDDR5 memory found in the GTX 1060 Super. This faster memory leads to improved frame rates and smoother gameplay, especially in memory-intensive games. The core clock speeds are typically higher, allowing the card to handle more complex tasks. With more CUDA cores, the GTX 1660 Super is better equipped for modern game demands. The Turing architecture also brings several improvements, like better power efficiency and enhanced processing capabilities. The GTX 1660 Super is designed to deliver a high-performance experience at 1080p, and even some 1440p gaming. This makes it suitable for various types of gamers. The power consumption is impressively low, making it a great choice for those aiming for a balanced system. The cooling solutions are often optimized to keep the card running cool and stable, even during extended gaming sessions. These advanced cooling systems ensure optimal performance under heavy loads. Compared to the GTX 1060 Super, the GTX 1660 Super offers significant improvements in performance and efficiency, providing a superior gaming experience. Its modern architecture and memory configuration place it a step ahead in the budget-friendly GPU market.

Gaming Performance: GTX 1060 Super vs. GTX 1660 Super in Action

Now, let's get to the fun part: gaming performance! This is where we see how these cards actually stack up against each other in real-world scenarios. We'll look at average frame rates in several popular games, including titles that are both graphically demanding and those that are more optimized. This comparison will help you understand what to expect when you fire up your favorite games. We'll cover several titles to give a broad picture of their capabilities. We're talking about the games you love, the ones you spend hours playing – that's what we're interested in! Gaming benchmarks provide the real test of a GPU's capabilities. Understanding how these cards handle different games gives you an idea of the kind of experience you can expect. Let's see how they perform in some of the most popular titles.

GTX 1060 Super Gaming Benchmarks

The GTX 1060 Super, despite being an older card, still holds its own in many games. It generally delivers excellent performance at 1080p. In titles like "Fortnite" and "Overwatch", you can expect smooth frame rates with medium to high settings. This means you can enjoy these games without any noticeable lag or stuttering. For graphically intensive games like "The Witcher 3" or "Grand Theft Auto V", the GTX 1060 Super usually performs very well at medium settings. You might need to adjust some settings to maintain optimal frame rates, but the overall gaming experience is still enjoyable. The 6GB of VRAM helps in managing high-resolution textures, contributing to a better visual experience. With the right settings, the GTX 1060 Super ensures a playable and enjoyable experience for many modern games. Remember that your specific frame rates can vary based on your system, but these numbers give you a good idea of what to expect. The GTX 1060 Super offers an affordable way to enjoy a wide range of games at 1080p.

GTX 1660 Super Gaming Benchmarks

The GTX 1660 Super typically outperforms the GTX 1060 Super across the board. In games like "Fortnite" and "Apex Legends", you'll see higher frame rates and smoother gameplay. You might even be able to push the settings higher. The newer architecture and faster memory of the GTX 1660 Super make a noticeable difference in many popular titles. In more demanding games such as "Cyberpunk 2077" or "Assassin's Creed Valhalla", the GTX 1660 Super allows you to maintain playable frame rates at medium settings. You might even get acceptable performance at 1080p with high settings. The faster GDDR6 memory significantly enhances performance, especially in graphically intensive games. The GTX 1660 Super provides a superior gaming experience, making it a great option for those looking to upgrade. It provides a more future-proof option, and its performance gains are often substantial. Its ability to handle modern games at high settings makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious gamers. The overall result is a smoother, more enjoyable gaming experience.

Power Consumption and Efficiency

Power consumption is a critical factor, especially when building a budget PC. It affects your electricity bill, the longevity of your components, and how much heat your system generates. Both the GTX 1060 Super and the GTX 1660 Super have different power profiles, and understanding these differences is essential. When you're building or upgrading a system, this information helps you choose a suitable power supply unit (PSU) and manage your system's thermal performance. Efficient GPUs generate less heat and noise, providing a better user experience. Let's dig deeper into the power consumption characteristics of each card.

GTX 1060 Super Power Consumption

The GTX 1060 Super has a typical TDP (Thermal Design Power) of around 120W. This means that the card draws around 120 watts of power under full load. This relatively low power consumption makes it a good option for budget builds. The lower power requirements mean that you can get by with a smaller, more affordable power supply. The efficient design of the Pascal architecture ensures that the card does not generate excessive heat. This results in less strain on your cooling system. This lower power draw not only benefits your wallet but also makes it easier to keep your system cool and quiet. The GTX 1060 Super's efficiency makes it an attractive choice for those who want a capable gaming card without breaking the bank on power. Its energy efficiency also contributes to a longer lifespan for the components. The GTX 1060 Super is an excellent choice for those looking for a balance between performance and energy savings.

GTX 1660 Super Power Consumption

The GTX 1660 Super is known for its excellent power efficiency. Its TDP is also around 120W, similar to the GTX 1060 Super, but its overall performance is generally better. The Turing architecture allows the GTX 1660 Super to perform more efficiently, providing higher performance with the same power draw. This means you can expect better frame rates with similar energy usage. This efficiency translates to a cooler and quieter system. Lower power consumption puts less stress on your power supply and other components. The GTX 1660 Super is a great choice for those seeking a balance of performance and efficiency. This makes it an ideal option for those who want a powerful gaming experience without significantly increasing their electricity bill. The design ensures that it handles gaming workloads with ease while remaining power-conscious. Its efficiency gives it an edge in terms of value and usability.

Price and Value: Which Card Offers the Best Bang for Your Buck?

Price and value are major considerations when choosing between these two cards. The cost of a graphics card can vary depending on market availability, the manufacturer, and whether it's new or used. This section will delve into the relative prices and determine which card provides the best value. We're talking about maximizing your gaming experience without breaking the bank. The goal here is to get the most performance for your money. Assessing the current market prices is essential, and we will consider both the new and used markets. Evaluating the prices and assessing the performance relative to cost will help you to select the best card for your needs. Let's see how these cards compare in terms of price and value. Let's find out which one will give you the most bang for your buck.

GTX 1060 Super Price and Value

The GTX 1060 Super, being an older card, is often available at lower prices, especially on the used market. This makes it a great option for budget-conscious gamers looking for decent performance. You can often find them at very competitive prices. Its availability and affordability make it a great entry point to PC gaming. However, remember to factor in potential wear and tear if buying used. It provides excellent value, especially if you're on a tight budget and do not want to sacrifice the gaming performance. For its price, it offers a great level of performance. Even if you're upgrading an older PC, the GTX 1060 Super provides a substantial improvement for a small investment. Keep in mind that prices fluctuate, so comparing prices from different sellers is important. The value proposition of the GTX 1060 Super makes it an appealing choice for those who want a capable gaming card without spending a lot of money.

GTX 1660 Super Price and Value

The GTX 1660 Super generally comes at a higher price than the GTX 1060 Super. However, the performance gains and improved features justify the slightly higher cost. It's often seen as a better investment because of its performance advantage, modern architecture, and more future-proof design. The GDDR6 memory and newer features provide a better overall gaming experience. The GTX 1660 Super provides superior value in terms of its performance per dollar. While it may cost more upfront, the improved performance, better efficiency, and newer features contribute to its long-term value. Despite the higher initial price, the GTX 1660 Super remains a popular choice for gamers looking for a good balance of performance and price. When considering the value, you have to look beyond the initial cost. The benefits of the GTX 1660 Super justify the investment.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

So, which card should you choose? The GTX 1660 Super generally comes out on top. It offers better performance, is more efficient, and often provides a smoother gaming experience. Although the GTX 1060 Super is still a solid card, the GTX 1660 Super is a worthwhile upgrade, if your budget allows. If you're on a very tight budget and need a card immediately, the GTX 1060 Super is still a viable option, especially if you can find it at a great price. It's still a capable card for 1080p gaming. Consider your budget, the games you want to play, and how long you plan to keep the card. The GTX 1660 Super is a safer bet for a more modern and capable gaming experience. The GTX 1660 Super also offers better support for future games. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget, but the GTX 1660 Super is the better overall option if you're looking for the best performance. Think of this as an investment in your gaming experience. Both cards provide great value in the budget GPU market. Now, go forth and game on!