Quick Answer
The GeForce GTX 1660 is a newer generation graphics card that typically offers a noticeable performance improvement over the older GTX 1060. Key differences include a more modern Turing architecture, higher clock speeds, and the inclusion of GDDR6 memory on most models. For users considering an upgrade, the GTX 1660 generally provides better frame rates in modern games.
GeForce GTX 1660 vs GeForce GTX 1060: Full Comparison
Introduction
When comparing graphics cards from different generations, understanding the architectural and performance evolution is crucial. The GeForce GTX 1060 was a highly popular choice for 1080p gaming, while the GTX 1660 arrived later as a refined successor. This comparison will analyze their specifications, architectural differences, gaming performance, and features to help clarify which card might be more suitable for different user needs, focusing purely on technical aspects and typical performance outcomes.
Architecture and Specifications
The core difference between these two cards lies in their underlying architecture and the manufacturing process.
- GTX 1060: Based on NVIDIA’s Pascal architecture, built on a 16nm process. It features 1280 CUDA cores and typically came with 6GB of GDDR5 memory.
- GTX 1660: Utilizes the newer Turing architecture (without RT or Tensor cores), built on a refined 12nm process. It features 1408 CUDA cores and, in most models, 6GB of faster GDDR6 memory.
The move to Turing and a smaller process node generally allows the GTX 1660 to achieve higher clock speeds and better performance per watt, despite having a similar power draw.
Gaming Performance
In real-world gaming scenarios, the performance delta is clear, though the extent can vary by title and settings.
- 1080p Gaming: The GTX 1660 typically delivers higher average frame rates across a wide range of modern games at 1080p resolution with high settings. The performance uplift is often in the range of 15-25% compared to the GTX 1060 6GB.
- Game Support: Due to its newer architecture, the GTX 1660 may handle modern game engines and graphical features more efficiently.
- VRAM: Both cards commonly have 6GB of memory, which is generally sufficient for 1080p gaming. The GDDR6 in the GTX 1660 offers higher bandwidth, which can be beneficial in memory-intensive scenarios.
Features and Technologies
While both cards share the “GTX” branding, the newer generation introduced some under-the-hood enhancements.
- NVENC Encoder: The GTX 1660 features a more efficient and improved NVENC encoder (Turing-based) compared to the GTX 1060 (Pascal-based), which can be beneficial for video recording or streaming with minimal performance impact.
- Architectural Efficiency: The Turing architecture in the GTX 1660 includes improvements in how it handles instructions and shading, contributing to its performance advantage without a major increase in power consumption.
- Display Outputs: Both cards typically support similar modern display outputs, such as DisplayPort and HDMI.
Power and Thermals
The thermal design power (TDP) and cooling requirements are quite similar, making them compatible with most standard PC builds.
- TDP: Both cards have a rated TDP of approximately 120 watts, meaning they draw similar power from the system. A quality 450-watt power supply is typically sufficient for either.
- Cooling: Thermal performance depends heavily on the specific model from a board partner (e.g., dual-fan vs. single-fan designs). Both generations have models with effective cooling solutions.
Comparison Table: GeForce GTX 1660 vs GTX 1060
| Feature | GeForce GTX 1660 | GeForce GTX 1060 6GB |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Turing (12nm) | Pascal (16nm) |
| CUDA Cores | 1408 | 1280 |
| Base / Boost Clock | ~1530 MHz / ~1785 MHz | ~1506 MHz / ~1709 MHz |
| VRAM | 6GB GDDR6 | 6GB GDDR5 |
| Memory Bus | 192-bit | 192-bit |
| Memory Bandwidth | ~336 GB/s | ~192 GB/s |
| TDP | ~120W | ~120W |
| NVENC Encoder | Turing (7th Gen) | Pascal (6th Gen) |
| Typical Performance Tier | 1080p High/Ultra | 1080p High |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main performance difference between the GTX 1660 and GTX 1060?
The GeForce GTX 1660 generally offers a noticeable performance uplift, often between 15% and 25% in frame rates at 1080p resolution, due to its newer Turing architecture, higher core count, and faster GDDR6 memory.
Is the GTX 1660 worth it over the GTX 1060 for an upgrade?
For users currently with a GTX 1060, the performance increase from a GTX 1660 may not be substantial enough to justify an upgrade for some. It is typically more relevant for those building a new system or upgrading from an older card.
Do both cards support the same features like G-Sync?
Yes, both the GTX 1060 and GTX 1660 support standard G-Sync technology on compatible monitors. They do not support hardware-accelerated ray tracing or DLSS, which are reserved for RTX-series cards.
Which card typically runs cooler or quieter?
Thermal and acoustic performance is largely determined by the specific cooler design from the manufacturer, not the GPU chip itself. Both GPUs have models that can run cool and quiet, as well as more basic models.
Final Thoughts
The GeForce GTX 1660 represents a clear generational step forward from the GTX 1060, offering improved performance through architectural advancements and faster memory. The GTX 1060, however, established itself as a capable and enduring option for 1080p gaming. The choice between them often comes down to availability and the performance level required for a user’s specific games and settings. For new builds where both are options, the GTX 1660 typically presents a more modern feature set and better performance. Users should consider their current setup, performance targets, and typical usage to determine which card’s capabilities align with their needs.