Quick Answer
The GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER is a newer generation graphics card that offers a significant performance improvement over the older GTX 1060. The key differences include faster GDDR6 memory, a more modern Turing architecture, and generally better performance in modern games at 1080p resolution.
GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER vs GeForce GTX 1060: Full Comparison
Introduction
For many PC builders and gamers, the choice between a previous-generation staple and its more modern successor is a common dilemma. The GeForce GTX 1060 was a dominant force in the mid-range market for years, while the GTX 1660 SUPER arrived later as a refined and more capable option. This comparison aims to break down the architectural differences, performance metrics, and feature sets of these two popular graphics cards, helping you understand which one might align better with specific needs, particularly for 1080p gaming.
Architecture and Specifications
The fundamental difference between these cards lies in their underlying technology. The GTX 1060 is based on NVIDIA’s Pascal architecture, which was a significant leap in its time. The GTX 1660 SUPER, however, utilizes the newer Turing architecture, though it lacks the dedicated RT and Tensor cores found in the RTX series.
- GTX 1060: Built on the 16nm GP106 Pascal chip. It was available in two main variants: the 3GB and the more common 6GB model, which have different core counts.
- GTX 1660 SUPER: Built on the 12nm TU116 Turing chip. It exclusively features 6GB of video memory, but uses much faster GDDR6 compared to the GDDR5 in the GTX 1060.
The memory bandwidth is a standout difference, with the 1660 SUPER’s GDDR6 providing a substantial uplift, which often translates to smoother performance in games that are sensitive to memory speed.
Gaming Performance
In terms of real-world application, gaming performance is the primary consideration. The performance gap varies depending on the game and settings, but a trend is clear.
- 1080p Gaming: The GTX 1660 SUPER typically delivers higher average frame rates across a wide range of modern titles. The difference can range from 15% to 30% or more compared to the GTX 1060 6GB, making it better suited for high/ultra settings.
- Game Settings: While both cards are targeted at 1080p resolution, the 1660 SUPER can more comfortably handle higher detail levels and post-processing effects.
- Future-Proofing: Due to its more modern architecture and faster memory, the GTX 1660 SUPER is generally better positioned to handle newer game engines and graphical demands.
It’s important to note that the GTX 1060 3GB model will show a more pronounced performance deficit due to its lower VRAM and reduced CUDA core count.
Features and Technologies
Beyond raw performance, the architectural generation shift brings some feature updates.
- NVENC Encoder: The GTX 1660 SUPER features a newer, more efficient NVENC encoder (Turing-based) which is beneficial for video recording or streaming with minimal performance impact, compared to the older encoder in the GTX 1060.
- Architectural Benefits: The Turing architecture in the 1660 SUPER includes improvements in shader execution and memory compression, contributing to its efficiency gains.
- Lack of Ray Tracing: It’s crucial to remember that neither of these cards contains dedicated hardware for real-time ray tracing, a feature reserved for NVIDIA’s RTX line.
Power and Thermal Considerations
Both cards are known for relatively modest power requirements, making them compatible with a wide range of existing PC builds.
- TDP (Thermal Design Power): Both cards have a similar TDP, typically around 120-125 watts. This means their power draw and heat output are comparable.
- Power Connector: They usually require a single 8-pin or 6-pin PCIe power connector.
- Cooling: Thermal performance depends heavily on the specific model from a board partner (e.g., dual-fan vs. single-fan designs). Both GPUs can be found in versions with effective cooling solutions that maintain low noise levels.
Comparison Table: GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER vs GTX 1060
| Feature | GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER | GeForce GTX 1060 6GB |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Turing (12nm) | Pascal (16nm) |
| GPU Chip | TU116 | GP106 |
| 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 | 125W | 120W |
| Recommended PSU | 450W | 400W |
| NVENC Encoder | Turing (7th Gen) | Pascal (5th Gen) |
| DirectX Support | 12 Ultimate (Feature Level 12_1) | 12 (Feature Level 12_1) |
| Target Resolution | 1080p | 1080p |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main performance difference between the GTX 1660 SUPER and GTX 1060?
The GTX 1660 SUPER generally offers noticeably higher frame rates in games, often between 15% and 30% faster than the GTX 1060 6GB at 1080p resolution, due to its newer Turing architecture and significantly faster GDDR6 memory.
Is the GTX 1660 SUPER better for streaming than the GTX 1060?
Typically, yes. The GTX 1660 SUPER includes a more modern and efficient Turing-based NVENC encoder, which can handle video encoding for streaming with less impact on in-game performance compared to the older encoder in the GTX 1060.
Can either of these cards handle ray tracing?
No. Neither the GTX 1660 SUPER nor the GTX 1060 has dedicated RT (Ray Tracing) cores. Real-time ray tracing is a feature found in NVIDIA’s RTX series graphics cards (e.g., RTX 2060 and above).
Will my power supply be sufficient for an upgrade from a GTX 1060 to a 1660 SUPER?
In most cases, yes. Both cards have a very similar Thermal Design Power (TDP), typically around 125W. If your power supply was adequate for a GTX 1060, it should generally also support a GTX 1660 SUPER without issue.
Final Thoughts
The comparison between the GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER and the GTX 1060 illustrates a clear generational improvement. The 1660 SUPER leverages a more modern architecture and faster memory to deliver a tangible boost in gaming performance for the same 1080p target resolution. While the GTX 1060 remains a capable card for many titles, the 1660 SUPER’s advantages in memory bandwidth, encoding efficiency, and overall frame rates are significant factors for those building a new system or seeking an upgrade. The choice ultimately depends on individual priorities, such as the performance level required for specific games and the relative availability of each card in the current market.