Quick Answer
The GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER and the GeForce GTX 1070 Ti are graphics cards from different generations. The GTX 1070 Ti typically offers higher overall performance, particularly at higher resolutions, while the GTX 1660 SUPER is a more power-efficient and generally more affordable option that performs well at 1080p.
GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER vs GeForce GTX 1070 Ti: Full Comparison
Introduction
When comparing graphics cards, it’s common to see newer, more affordable models competing with older, higher-tier hardware. The GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER, launched in late 2019, and the GeForce GTX 1070 Ti, released in late 2017, represent this exact scenario. This comparison is useful for users considering options in the mid-range segment, whether they are building a new system or upgrading an existing one. This article will analyze the architectural differences, gaming performance, features, and efficiency of these two cards to help clarify their respective positions.
Architecture and Specifications
The core difference between these GPUs lies in their underlying architecture. The GTX 1070 Ti is based on NVIDIA’s older Pascal architecture, while the GTX 1660 SUPER utilizes the more recent Turing architecture, albeit without dedicated RT (Ray Tracing) and Tensor cores.
- GTX 1070 Ti (Pascal): Built on a 16nm process, it features 2432 CUDA cores and 8GB of GDDR5 memory on a 256-bit bus. Its higher memory bandwidth is a key specification.
- GTX 1660 SUPER (Turing): Built on a 12nm process, it features 1408 CUDA cores. Its standout feature is 6GB of GDDR6 memory on a 192-bit bus, which offers significantly faster memory speeds than standard GDDR5, helping to compensate for the narrower bus.
While the GTX 1070 Ti has a clear advantage in core count and memory capacity, the GTX 1660 SUPER benefits from a more modern manufacturing process and faster memory technology.
Gaming Performance
Performance varies depending on the game title, settings, and resolution.
- At 1080p Resolution: The performance gap is often narrower. The GTX 1660 SUPER is capable of delivering smooth frame rates in most modern titles at high settings. The GTX 1070 Ti generally maintains a lead, but it is typically in the range of 10-20% on average.
- At 1440p Resolution: The GTX 1070 Ti’s advantages become more pronounced. Its larger 8GB VRAM buffer and higher memory bandwidth are better suited for handling the increased texture and data demands of 1440p gaming, where the GTX 1660 SUPER’s 6GB frame buffer can become a limiting factor in some newer games.
- Esports and Older Titles: Both cards provide excellent performance, often exceeding the refresh rates of standard 1080p monitors.
Power Efficiency and Features
This is an area where the generational difference is clearly evident.
- Power Draw: The GTX 1660 SUPER has a lower Typical Board Power (TBP) of 125W, compared to the GTX 1070 Ti’s 180W. This makes the 1660 SUPER easier to cool and potentially more suitable for smaller form-factor cases or systems with less robust power supplies.
- Modern Features: The Turing architecture in the GTX 1660 SUPER supports newer technologies like NVENC (a dedicated video encoding block), which is improved over the Pascal version and is beneficial for streaming and video recording. It also supports Adaptive Shading, which can improve performance in supported games.
- Lack of RTX Features: It is important to note that neither card includes hardware for real-time ray tracing (RT cores) or AI-powered DLSS (Tensor cores).
Comparison Table
| Feature | GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER | GeForce GTX 1070 Ti |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Turing (12nm) | Pascal (16nm) |
| CUDA Cores | 1408 | 2432 |
| VRAM | 6GB GDDR6 | 8GB GDDR5 |
| Memory Bus | 192-bit | 256-bit |
| Memory Speed | 14 Gbps | 8 Gbps |
| Memory Bandwidth | 336 GB/s | 256 GB/s |
| Typical Board Power (TBP) | 125W | 180W |
| Recommended PSU | 450W | 500W |
| Performance Target | 1080p Gaming | 1080p / 1440p Gaming |
| Key Features | Turing NVENC, Adaptive Shading | Higher core count, More VRAM |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which is faster, the GTX 1660 SUPER or the GTX 1070 Ti?
The GTX 1070 Ti is generally faster in most gaming scenarios. The performance difference is more noticeable at 1440p resolution due to its higher memory capacity and bandwidth.
Is the GTX 1660 SUPER better for a new build?
It can be a strong candidate due to its lower power consumption, which may allow for a less expensive power supply and cooler. Its modern architecture also brings improved video encoding capabilities, which is useful for content creators.
Does the GTX 1070 Ti’s 8GB VRAM make a big difference?
It can, especially for gaming at 1440p or using high-resolution texture packs in modern games. The extra VRAM helps prevent performance issues related to running out of video memory.
Can either of these cards handle ray tracing?
No. Neither the GTX 1660 SUPER nor the GTX 1070 Ti has dedicated hardware (RT Cores) for real-time ray tracing. Enabling ray tracing in supported games would result in a very significant performance drop on these cards.
Final Thoughts
The choice between the GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER and the GeForce GTX 1070 Ti involves a trade-off between newer technology and raw performance. The GTX 1660 SUPER represents a more efficient and modern design with benefits in power consumption and features like the improved NVENC encoder. It is a capable 1080p gaming card. The GTX 1070 Ti, while older and less efficient, retains a performance advantage that makes it more competent for higher-resolution gaming. The decision often comes down to individual priorities, such as target resolution, power constraints, and the specific features valued by the user.