Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a classic graphics card showdown: the GTX 1060 Super versus the GTX 1660 Super. If you're on a quest to find the perfect GPU for your gaming rig without breaking the bank, you've come to the right place. We'll dissect their specs, performance, and value to help you make the best decision. So, grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and let's get started!

Overview of GTX 1060 Super

The GTX 1060 Super, though not an officially released card by NVIDIA, is often used to refer to overclocked or higher-performing versions of the original GTX 1060. The GTX 1060 itself was a massively popular card, offering a sweet spot of performance and affordability during its prime. When we talk about a "Super" variant, we're generally considering models with enhanced clock speeds or better cooling solutions that allow for sustained higher performance. This card was built on the Pascal architecture, which brought significant improvements in power efficiency and performance compared to its predecessors. The GTX 1060 typically came with either 3GB or 6GB of GDDR5 memory, a crucial factor in handling modern games and textures. Its strengths lay in its ability to deliver a solid 1080p gaming experience, making it a go-to choice for gamers aiming for high frame rates at medium to high settings. Even today, a well-maintained GTX 1060 can still hold its own in many titles, proving its enduring value and the effectiveness of the Pascal architecture. For gamers who weren't chasing ultra-high resolutions or extreme settings, the GTX 1060 provided a balanced and enjoyable experience, making it a cornerstone of many budget-friendly gaming builds.

Overview of GTX 1660 Super

The GTX 1660 Super, on the other hand, is a real card that NVIDIA officially released, and it's a significant upgrade over the original GTX 1660. Based on the Turing architecture but without the ray-tracing and DLSS capabilities of its RTX siblings, the GTX 1660 Super focuses on delivering excellent raw performance at an affordable price. What sets the GTX 1660 Super apart is its use of GDDR6 memory, a substantial improvement over the GDDR5 found in the original GTX 1660. This faster memory significantly boosts its memory bandwidth, leading to better performance in games, especially at higher resolutions and settings. The Turing architecture also brings other enhancements, such as improved shaders and better power efficiency. The GTX 1660 Super is designed to excel at 1080p gaming, offering higher frame rates and smoother gameplay than the GTX 1060 in most modern titles. It's a great option for gamers who want to maximize their visual settings without breaking the bank. Furthermore, the GTX 1660 Super's improved efficiency means it typically runs cooler and consumes less power, making it a more environmentally friendly choice. For those building a new gaming PC or upgrading from an older card, the GTX 1660 Super provides a compelling combination of performance, features, and value, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience for years to come. Its architecture and memory configuration make it a strong contender in the budget to mid-range GPU market.

Specs Comparison

Let's break down the raw specifications to see how these cards stack up:

Keep in mind that the GTX 1060 Super specifications can vary based on the specific model and manufacturer. The listed specs are based on common overclocked GTX 1060 configurations. The GTX 1660 Super clearly has an advantage with its GDDR6 memory and higher memory bandwidth. The increased CUDA cores and higher clock speeds also give it a theoretical edge in performance.

Performance Benchmarks

Alright, let's get to the juicy stuff – performance! In most benchmarks, the GTX 1660 Super generally outperforms the GTX 1060 Super. Here’s a quick rundown:

• 1080p Gaming: The GTX 1660 Super typically delivers higher frame rates in modern titles. You can expect a smoother experience with higher settings enabled. For example, in games like Assassin's Creed Valhalla or Cyberpunk 2077, the GTX 1660 Super can provide a more stable 60+ FPS at medium to high settings, whereas the GTX 1060 Super might struggle to maintain that consistently.
• 1440p Gaming: While both cards can handle 1440p gaming, you'll likely need to lower the settings to achieve playable frame rates. The GTX 1660 Super will still provide a better experience, but don't expect ultra settings.
• VR Gaming: Both cards are VR-ready, but the GTX 1660 Super will offer a more comfortable experience with fewer compromises in visual quality.

Keep in mind that performance can vary based on the specific game, settings, and overall system configuration. However, the GTX 1660 Super consistently shows a performance lead in most scenarios. For example, in Shadow of the Tomb Raider, the GTX 1660 Super might achieve an average of 70 FPS at high settings, while the GTX 1060 Super could be closer to 55-60 FPS. This difference can be significant, especially in fast-paced action games where every frame counts. Furthermore, the GTX 1660 Super's Turing architecture includes improvements in shader technology, which can result in better visual fidelity and more efficient rendering, contributing to its overall performance advantage. For gamers looking for the best possible experience at 1080p and the ability to dabble in 1440p, the GTX 1660 Super is the clear winner.

Power Consumption and Thermals

When it comes to power consumption, both cards are relatively efficient. The GTX 1660 Super has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of around 125W, while the GTX 1060 Super is typically around 120W. In real-world scenarios, the difference is negligible. Both cards can be powered by a single 8-pin connector, and they won't significantly impact your electricity bill. Thermally, both cards perform well with decent cooling solutions. The GTX 1660 Super might have a slight advantage due to its more modern architecture, which tends to run a bit cooler. However, this can also depend on the specific cooler design implemented by the manufacturer. For instance, a well-cooled GTX 1060 Super can perform just as well as a standard GTX 1660 Super in terms of temperature. Ultimately, both cards are designed to operate within safe temperature ranges, ensuring longevity and stable performance. It's always a good idea to monitor your GPU temperatures during intense gaming sessions to ensure everything is running smoothly. Using software like MSI Afterburner or EVGA Precision X1 can help you keep an eye on temperatures and adjust fan speeds to optimize cooling. In summary, both the GTX 1660 Super and the GTX 1060 Super offer similar power consumption and thermal performance, making them both viable options for energy-conscious gamers.

Pricing and Availability

Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room: pricing and availability. Given that both cards are older models, their availability on the primary market is limited. You'll likely find them on the used market. The GTX 1060 Super, being the older card, is generally cheaper. However, the GTX 1660 Super offers better performance for a slightly higher price. When considering used cards, always check their condition and ensure they haven't been used for mining, as this can significantly reduce their lifespan. Pricing can vary widely based on the condition, seller, and current market demand. It's also worth noting that the prices of older GPUs can fluctuate due to changes in the cryptocurrency market and overall supply and demand. Before making a purchase, compare prices from multiple sources and read reviews to ensure you're getting a fair deal. Additionally, consider the warranty status of the card, if available. A card with a remaining warranty can provide peace of mind in case of any issues. In general, if you can find a GTX 1660 Super at a reasonable price, it's the better investment due to its superior performance and more modern features. However, if budget is a major concern and you can find a GTX 1060 Super in good condition at a significantly lower price, it can still be a viable option for 1080p gaming.

Conclusion: Which GPU Should You Choose?

So, which GPU should you choose? If performance is your top priority and you can find it at a reasonable price, the GTX 1660 Super is the clear winner. Its faster memory, improved architecture, and better overall performance make it a more future-proof option. However, if you're on a tight budget and only need a card for light 1080p gaming, the GTX 1060 Super can still be a viable option, especially if you can find it at a bargain price. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. Consider what games you want to play, what resolution you're targeting, and how much you're willing to spend. Both cards offer a decent gaming experience, but the GTX 1660 Super provides a noticeable upgrade in performance and features. Before making a final decision, do your research, compare prices, and read reviews to ensure you're making the best choice for your gaming setup. Happy gaming, guys!