Can I Use GTX 1060 3GB and 2060 Together on a B450 Motherboard?

When it comes to building or upgrading a PC, compatibility is a critical factor, especially when it comes to multi-GPU setups. If you are considering running both a GTX 1060 3GB and a GTX 2060 on a B450 motherboard, you might face a few challenges. Let's dive into the details and explore the options available for you.

Introduction to Multi-GPU Technology

Multi-GPU technology allows you to harness the power of multiple graphics cards to boost performance, especially for high-end gaming and professional tasks. However, not all motherboards and GPUs are compatible with each other, and certain technologies such as NVIDIA SLI and CrossFire from AMD play a crucial role in determining the setup compatibility.

Compatibility with GTX 1060 3GB and GTX 2060

It's important to note that GPUs do not have to be identical to work together. However, running different models of GPUs simultaneously requires careful consideration, especially when it comes to driver support and stability.

SLI and Its Limitations

SLI (Scalable Link Interface) is a technology developed by NVIDIA that allows two or more identical GPUs to work together to achieve higher performance. However, this technology has limitations. First and foremost, games typically do not support SLI, which means that using it could lead to crashes or unexpected behavior. Also, the 1060 3GB and 2060 are different models with varying specifications and drivers. Running them through SLI would require specific drivers and configurations, which might not be reliable or optimal.

B450 Motherboard Capacities

The B450 motherboard, manufactured by AMD, is designed with CrossFire technology in mind. This technology allows two or more GPUs from AMD to work together seamlessly, but it does not support NVIDIA GPUs running through SLI. The B450 chipset focuses on supporting AMD's proprietary technology, thereby limiting the options for NVIDIA GPUs.

Unfortunately, the B450 motherboard only supports CrossFire and does not support SLI for any NVIDIA GPUs. This means that if you want to run both a GTX 1060 3GB and a GTX 2060 on your B450 motherboard, you will not be able to do so using the SLI technology. The motherboard is optimized for CrossFire, but unfortunately, this only applies to AMD GPUs.

Alternatives and Considerations

Given the limitations of the B450 motherboard and the unique needs of the GTX 1060 3GB and GTX 2060, there are a few alternative paths you might consider:

Use CrossFire with Compatible GPUs: If you have two GPUs from the AMD family, you can take full advantage of CrossFire technology. However, this is not applicable in your case as you have NVIDIA GPUs. Run GTX 1060 3GB as a Single GPU: You can choose to run the GTX 1060 3GB as a single GPU and upgrade the other slot to a different model or leave it unused. This might be a more practical approach if you do not plan to run both GPUs simultaneously. Consider Upgrading the Motherboard: If you are set on running both GPUs together, you might need to look at motherboards that support SLI or both SLI and CrossFire. However, this upgrade could be costly depending on your current budget and needs.

Conclusion and Recommendations

In conclusion, using a GTX 1060 3GB and a GTX 2060 on a B450 motherboard together is not possible due to the motherboard's limitations and SLI technology constraints. The B450 supports CrossFire but not SLI for NVIDIA GPUs. If you need to run both GPUs together, consider alternatives such as running them separately or upgrading to a motherboard that supports SLI.

Note: Always ensure to check the latest compatibility and drivers before making any changes to your system.