Quick Answer
The GeForce RTX 2060 SUPER and GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER are both capable graphics cards from the same generation, but they target different performance tiers. The RTX 2060 SUPER generally offers significantly higher performance and includes dedicated hardware for ray tracing and AI-powered DLSS, while the GTX 1660 SUPER provides a more budget-friendly option focused on traditional rasterization performance.
GeForce RTX 2060 SUPER vs GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER: Full Comparison
Introduction
Choosing a graphics card often involves balancing performance needs with budget considerations. The GeForce RTX 2060 SUPER and GTX 1660 SUPER, released within the same product cycle, represent two distinct approaches within the same architecture. This comparison will break down their specifications, features, and typical performance to clarify where each card excels. Understanding the differences in their core technologies, such as ray tracing support, is crucial for making an informed decision based on your specific use case, whether it’s gaming, content creation, or general use.
Architecture and Core Specifications
The fundamental difference between these two cards lies in their underlying architecture and resulting specs. While both are based on NVIDIA’s Turing architecture, the implementation and feature sets vary considerably.
- GPU Die: The RTX 2060 SUPER uses the TU106 die, while the GTX 1660 SUPER utilizes the smaller TU116 die. This translates to a higher number of CUDA cores, texture units, and ROPs for the RTX card.
- Memory: Both cards typically feature 6GB of VRAM, but the RTX 2060 SUPER uses faster GDDR6 memory (14 Gbps) on a wider 256-bit bus, yielding nearly double the memory bandwidth compared to the GTX 1660 SUPER’s GDDR6 (14 Gbps) on a 192-bit bus.
- RT and Tensor Cores: This is the defining separation. The RTX 2060 SUPER includes dedicated Ray Tracing (RT) Cores for real-time ray tracing effects and Tensor Cores for AI tasks like DLSS. The GTX 1660 SUPER lacks these specialized cores entirely.
Gaming Performance
In traditional rasterized gaming (the standard rendering technique), the RTX 2060 SUPER typically delivers a noticeable performance advantage.
- 1080p Gaming: The GTX 1660 SUPER is generally capable of providing smooth frame rates at 1080p resolution with high settings in most titles. The RTX 2060 SUPER often achieves higher frame rates, making it more suitable for high-refresh-rate 1080p monitors.
- 1440p Gaming: The performance gap becomes more pronounced. The RTX 2060 SUPER can handle 1440p gaming at medium to high settings in many games, whereas the GTX 1660 SUPER may require lower settings to maintain playable frame rates at this resolution.
- Ray Tracing and DLSS: This is exclusive to the RTX line. With the RTX 2060 SUPER, you can enable ray-traced effects (like shadows, reflections, or global illumination) in supported games, though it typically incurs a significant performance cost. DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) can help mitigate this cost by using AI to upscale a lower-resolution image, improving frame rates.
Features and Technologies
Beyond raw performance, the feature set supported by each card is a major differentiator.
- NVIDIA Encoder (NVENC): Both cards feature an improved NVENC encoder, which is beneficial for video streaming and recording with minimal performance impact.
- Adaptive Sync: Both support NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible technology for variable refresh rates on supported monitors, reducing screen tearing.
- RTX Platform Features: The RTX 2060 SUPER unlocks access to the full RTX software ecosystem, including DLSS, NVIDIA Broadcast (for AI-enhanced streaming), and RTX Voice (noise removal). These features are not available on the GTX 1660 SUPER.
Power and Thermal Considerations
The increased performance of the RTX 2060 SUPER comes with higher power demands.
- TDP (Thermal Design Power): The RTX 2060 SUPER typically has a TDP of around 175 watts, while the GTX 1660 SUPER is rated at approximately 125 watts. This means the RTX card generally consumes more power under load.
- Cooling and Size: Due to the higher power draw, RTX 2060 SUPER models often feature more substantial cooling solutions, which can result in a larger physical size (2.5 to 3-slot designs). GTX 1660 SUPER models are frequently more compact, with many using dual-fan or even single-fan coolers.
- Power Connectors: The RTX 2060 SUPER usually requires one 8-pin PCIe power connector, whereas the GTX 1660 SUPER often uses a single 8-pin or sometimes just a 6-pin connector.
Comparison Table
| Feature | GeForce RTX 2060 SUPER | GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Turing (TU106) | Turing (TU116) |
| CUDA Cores | 2176 | 1408 |
| RT Cores | 34 | None |
| Tensor Cores | 272 | None |
| Base / Boost Clock | ~1470 MHz / ~1650 MHz | ~1530 MHz / ~1785 MHz |
| VRAM | 8 GB GDDR6 | 6 GB GDDR6 |
| Memory Bus | 256-bit | 192-bit |
| Memory Bandwidth | 448 GB/s | 336 GB/s |
| TDP | ~175 Watts | ~125 Watts |
| Key Technologies | Real-Time Ray Tracing, DLSS, NVIDIA Broadcast | Traditional Rasterization, Improved NVENC |
| Typical Use Case | 1440p Gaming, Ray Tracing, High-Refresh 1080p | 1080p Gaming, Esports, Budget-Conscious Builds |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main difference between the RTX 2060 SUPER and GTX 1660 SUPER?
The primary differences are performance tier and feature set. The RTX 2060 SUPER offers higher performance for gaming at higher resolutions and includes dedicated hardware (RT and Tensor Cores) for real-time ray tracing and AI features like DLSS, which the GTX 1660 SUPER lacks.
Can the GTX 1660 SUPER do ray tracing?
Technically, ray tracing calculations can be performed on the GTX 1660 SUPER’s standard CUDA cores, but the performance impact is typically so severe that it is not considered a practical feature. It does not have the dedicated RT Cores that make real-time ray tracing viable on RTX cards.
Which card is better for 1080p gaming?
Both cards are capable for 1080p gaming. The GTX 1660 SUPER provides a good experience for high settings in many games. The RTX 2060 SUPER is better suited for achieving very high frame rates (e.g., 144+ FPS) on high-refresh-rate monitors or for running games with maximum settings.
Is the extra VRAM on the RTX 2060 SUPER important?
Having 8GB of VRAM compared to 6GB can be beneficial in games that use high-resolution textures, at higher display resolutions like 1440p, or for some content creation tasks. It provides more headroom for future games that may demand more video memory.
Final Thoughts
The choice between the GeForce RTX 2060 SUPER and the GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER hinges on your performance requirements and interest in next-generation gaming features. The RTX 2060 SUPER stands out for users seeking higher frame rates at 1440p, wanting to experiment with ray-traced visuals, or utilizing AI-enhanced features like DLSS. The GTX 1660 SUPER represents a focused solution for smooth 1080p gaming without the cost and power overhead of the RTX feature set. Your decision should be guided by the types of games you play, your target resolution and refresh rate, and the value you place on technologies like real-time ray tracing.