Quick Answer
The GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER is a direct upgrade to the standard GTX 1660, built on the same architecture but featuring significantly faster GDDR6 memory. This memory upgrade is the primary difference, which generally results in improved performance, particularly at higher resolutions and in memory-intensive games. Both cards are designed for 1080p gaming and share a similar core specification.
GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER vs GeForce GTX 1660: Full Comparison
Introduction
When considering a graphics card for a mid-range gaming PC, the GTX 1660 series often presents a compelling option. However, the distinction between the standard GTX 1660 and the GTX 1660 SUPER can be subtle yet impactful. This comparison aims to clarify the key differences and similarities between these two models, focusing on their specifications, performance characteristics, and overall value proposition. Understanding these details can help in making an informed decision based on specific gaming needs and budget considerations.
Architecture and Core Specifications
Both graphics cards are based on NVIDIA’s Turing architecture but do not include the dedicated RT Cores for real-time ray tracing found in the more premium RTX series. They share the same TU116 GPU core, which provides a solid foundation for 1080p gaming.
- GPU Core: Both models utilize the NVIDIA TU116 chip.
- CUDA Cores: They feature an identical count of 1408 CUDA cores, which handle the primary computational workload for graphics.
- Base and Boost Clocks: Clock speeds are very similar, with minor variations that typically do not lead to a noticeable performance gap on their own.
- Transistor Count & Die Size: Identical, as they are derived from the same silicon.
The core computational hardware is essentially the same, meaning the raw shading and texturing power between the two cards is nearly identical in scenarios not limited by memory bandwidth.
Memory: The Defining Difference
This is the most critical area of differentiation and the reason for the “SUPER” designation. The type and speed of the video memory have a substantial impact on performance.
- GTX 1660: Equipped with 6GB of GDDR5 memory. This older memory standard operates at an effective data rate of 8 Gbps on a 192-bit memory bus.
- GTX 1660 SUPER: Equipped with 6GB of GDDR6 memory. This newer standard operates at a significantly higher effective data rate of 14 Gbps on the same 192-bit bus.
The upgrade to GDDR6 results in a large increase in memory bandwidth—from 192 GB/s in the GTX 1660 to 336 GB/s in the GTX 1660 SUPER. This allows the GPU core to be fed data much more quickly, reducing bottlenecks in games with high-resolution textures or complex scenes.
Performance Comparison
The performance difference stems almost entirely from the memory subsystem upgrade. In many games, especially at 1080p resolution, the performance uplift is noticeable.
- 1080p Gaming: The GTX 1660 SUPER typically offers a performance advantage. The extent of the gain depends on the game; titles that are more memory-bandwidth-sensitive will show a larger benefit.
- Higher Resolutions (1440p): While neither card is designed as a primary 1440p gaming solution, the GTX 1660 SUPER generally handles the increased pixel load better due to its superior memory bandwidth, leading to more stable frame rates.
- Game Settings: The advantage of the SUPER variant becomes more pronounced when using higher-quality texture packs and detail settings that consume more VRAM and bandwidth.
In synthetic benchmarks and real-world gaming tests, the GTX 1660 SUPER commonly performs closer to the older GTX 1660 Ti than to the standard GTX 1660.
Power, Thermals, and Design
Given their shared architecture and core design, the two cards have very similar requirements and characteristics in these areas.
- TDP (Thermal Design Power): Both cards have a rated TDP of 125 watts, meaning their power consumption and heat output under load are comparable.
- Cooling and Form Factor: Cooling solutions are determined by the specific board partner (e.g., ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte), not the GPU model itself. Both the GTX 1660 and 1660 SUPER are available in similar dual-fan and compact single-fan designs.
- Display Outputs: They typically offer the same selection of ports, which usually includes DisplayPort, HDMI, and sometimes DVI-D, supporting multiple monitors.
Comparison Table
| Feature | GeForce GTX 1660 | GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER |
|---|---|---|
| GPU Architecture | Turing (TU116) | Turing (TU116) |
| CUDA Cores | 1408 | 1408 |
| Base / Boost Clock | ~1530 MHz / ~1785 MHz | ~1530 MHz / ~1785 MHz |
| VRAM (Memory) | 6 GB GDDR5 | 6 GB GDDR6 |
| Memory Bus Width | 192-bit | 192-bit |
| Memory Speed | 8 Gbps | 14 Gbps |
| Memory Bandwidth | 192 GB/s | 336 GB/s |
| TDP (Power Draw) | 125 W | 125 W |
| Recommended PSU | 450 W | 450 W |
| Primary Use Case | 1080p Gaming | 1080p Gaming |
| Ray Tracing Support | No (Software-only via drivers) | No (Software-only via drivers) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main difference between the GTX 1660 and GTX 1660 SUPER?
The primary and most significant difference is the video memory. The GTX 1660 uses GDDR5 memory, while the GTX 1660 SUPER uses faster GDDR6 memory. This gives the SUPER model a substantial increase in memory bandwidth, which typically translates to better gaming performance.
Is the GTX 1660 SUPER worth it over the GTX 1660?
This depends on the typical price difference in your region and your performance targets. The GTX 1660 SUPER generally offers a noticeable performance uplift for a relatively small increase in cost, making it a more performance-oriented choice for 1080p gaming.
Can these cards handle 1440p gaming?
While not their primary design target, both cards can run many games at 1440p, often requiring a reduction in graphical settings for smoother frame rates. The GTX 1660 SUPER typically handles 1440p better than the standard GTX 1660 due to its superior memory bandwidth.
Do they support ray tracing?
No, neither card has dedicated hardware (RT Cores) for real-time ray tracing. However, they can use software-based ray tracing techniques through certain driver updates, but the performance impact is typically very high and not recommended for playable frame rates.
Final Thoughts
The GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER and GTX 1660 are closely related graphics cards built on identical core hardware. The defining upgrade in the SUPER variant—the switch to faster GDDR6 memory—provides a clear and measurable performance advantage in many gaming scenarios, particularly as graphical settings increase. The standard GTX 1660 remains a capable 1080p card, but the 1660 SUPER often represents a more balanced choice for its generation, offering performance that closes in on the older GTX 1660 Ti. The decision between them often comes down to the specific pricing and availability in a given market, as well as the user’s desire for that extra level of performance headroom.