GTX 1660 vs GTX 1060: Which GPU Should You Choose?
When it comes to choosing between the Nvidia GTX 1660 and the GTX 1060, this article aims to help you make an informed decision based on performance, reliability, and budget.
Performance Comparison: GTX 1660 vs GTX 1060
When comparing the performance of the two GPUs, it's important to note that the GTX 1660 and the GTX 1060 are relatively similar in most benchmarks. While the 1660 does offer slightly better performance, the difference is so minimal that it would hardly be noticeable under normal gaming conditions.
According to many benchmarks, the GTX 1660 is only slightly faster than the GTX 1060. However, the true differentiator is the price. The GTX 1660 retails for approximately $400, while the GTX 1060 can be found for around $200 to $300. This price discrepancy can significantly impact your budget and ROI, especially if you're looking to build a gaming PC on a lean budget.
Reliability and Longevity
The 120W TDP of the GTX 1660 makes it a solid choice for those prioritizing reliability and longevity. Despite its lower wattage, the card is designed to operate quietly and efficiently, often running fans at less than 50% load while maintaining temperatures around 62°C.
Tim Triche (@Timothy_Trich) points out, The fans on the 1660 are extremely quiet and often run at less than 50% load while still being able to keep the GPU at around 62°C. This means that the fans will last a long time and the card will last a long time too. If you want a graphics card that can last ten years, this would be at the top of my list.
While the GTX 1060 might be slightly faster, the GTX 1660 offers comparable performance at a much lower price, making it a more cost-effective choice. However, if you're looking for a more powerful GPU, the GTX 1660 might be closer in performance to the GTX 1070, making it a compelling choice for those looking for the best value for their budget.
Market Trends and User Feedback
When it comes to user feedback, opinions are mixed. Some reviewers advocate for the GTX 1660 for its relatively low price and long-term reliability, while others prefer the GTX 1060 due to its slightly better performance. The market is highly competitive, and prices fluctuate based on supply and demand.
One user notes, Unless you can find a good deal on a used GTX 1060, the GTX 1660 is probably the better choice. While the GTX 1060 might be slightly faster, the GTX 1660 offers comparable performance at a much lower price.
Tim Triche also adds, I’m not sure what you mean by reliable but the GTX 1660 should be quite a bit faster than a GTX 1060. It's actually closer to a GTX 1070 in performance. Unless you can find a good deal on a used GTX 1060, the GTX 1660 is probably the better choice.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision between the GTX 1660 and the GTX 1060 comes down to several factors, including your budget, performance needs, and long-term reliability goals. If you're prioritizing the best value for your money and long-term reliability, the GTX 1660 is a great choice. However, if you're a power user demanding the very best performance, the GTX 1060 might still be the better option, despite its higher price.
It's important to consider your specific use case. For casual gaming, streaming, and basic multimedia tasks, the GTX 1660 offers excellent value and reliability. For more demanding applications or if you're willing to spend a bit more for the extra performance, the GTX 1060 might be the way to go.
Whichever you choose, both GPUs are reliable options and will serve you well in your gaming endeavors.