Choosing the Best GPU Upgrade: From GTX 1060 to RTX 2070 Super or AMD RX 5700 XT?
When you've got a GTX 1060 and a budget of $440, the question arises: which GPU should you choose as your upgraded option? The RTX 2070 Super or the AMD RX 5700 XT? Both offer incredible performance, but there are some crucial differences that might sway your decision depending on your priorities.
Comparing the RTX 2070 Super and AMD RX 5700 XT
The RTX 2070 Super is an absolute powerhouse, designed to deliver exceptional performance at 1440p resolution. It has 2560 CUDA cores and is powered by the AMD RDNA 2 architecture. The RTX 2070 Super also brings the advancements of RT Core and Tensor Core, enabling real-time ray tracing and AI-enhanced features. This makes it particularly appealing for gamers who value these cutting-edge technologies.
The AMD RX 5700 XT, on the other hand, is also a high-end choice with 4096 stream processors. It's slightly more powerful in terms of raw performance, with a clock speed reaching up to 2715 MHz. However, the AMD card lacks dedicated ray tracing cores, which is a feature that sets the Nvidia RTX cards apart. While still an excellent choice for gaming, the RTX 2070 Super introduces advanced functionality that can significantly enhance your gaming experience in certain titles.
Price and Performance
When you're working with a budget of $440, both GPUs are reasonably priced. However, the choice between them often comes down to a balance of performance and feature set.
The RTX 2070 Super is generally the more expensive option, but its superior ray tracing capabilities and Tensor Cores often make it the better choice for gamers who want an all-around superior experience. On the other hand, the AMD RX 5700 XT offers a slightly higher frame rate performance, which can be advantageous in games that are starting to push your hardware to its limits.
Clocking speeds, for instance, play a significant role in determining performance. The RTX 2070 Super's greater ability to handle high-resolution graphics and the additional Tensor Cores can make it a better fit for certain games or scenarios, such as pixel art games or indie titles that benefit from real-time ray tracing. Meanwhile, the RX 5700 XT’s higher nominal clock speeds can mean better performance in benchmarked scenarios.
Conclusion
The decision between the RTX 2070 Super and the RX 5700 XT ultimately hinges on your individual gaming needs and preferences. If you prioritize advanced features and long-term compatibility, the RTX 2070 Super might be the better choice. It offers a valuable upgrade for the future and comes with the RT Core and Tensor Core that can significantly enhance your gaming experience. However, if you seek the best bang for your buck and want a slight edge in gaming benchmarks, the AMD RX 5700 XT could be the way to go.
Remember, both GPUs are capable of delivering exceptional performance and value within the budget of $440. The choice should be guided by your specific priorities and needs.