Is Intel Core i7-9700, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super, 16GB DDR4 RAM a Good Gaming Rig?

For those pondering the best gaming build today, the combination of an Intel Core i7-9700 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super graphics card, and 16GB DDR4 RAM is indeed a capable setup, albeit somewhat dated for cutting-edge games. This configuration offers a solid middle ground for a wide range of gaming needs, especially when balanced against current prices.

Evolving Gaming Standards and Their Impact

While it's understandable to be concerned about the capabilities of this setup, particularly in light of advanced hardware requirements, it's essential to consider the progress in gaming technology. Today, a powerful gaming rig may be more robust than 500 dollars can provide, but this combination still quantifies as a good bargain for many gamers. The performance difference isn't dramatic, but it does offer a reliable balance between cost and gaming experience.

Is 1660 Super Enough for Gaming?

Your inquiry boils down to the simple question: Is the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super capable of handling modern gaming? The answer hinges on your specific requirements. The 1660 Super is more than adequate for 1080p gaming under nearly any scenario, providing a solid base for a wide range of available titles, especially when played on ultra settings. With this configuration, you can expect performances that range from 100fps in most titles for ultra settings to around 60fps for 1440p at high to medium settings. However, when you venture into the realm of high-graphics-intensive games or competitive play, more advanced hardware begins to become necessary.

Considerations for High-Settings Gaming

When you look at AAA titles running on high settings and high resolutions, the performance may fall below expectations. A NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Super or NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 is recommended for such scenarios. These cards are designed to handle the high demands of modern games, ensuring a smoother, more immersive gaming experience. The GTX 1660 Super, when paired with a modern CPU and 16GB of RAM, still holds its own, but the jump in performance for high settings becomes noticeable, even though it is a significant gap.

With the Intel Core i7-9700 processor and its 16GB DDR4 RAM, you have a dependable foundation. The Core i7-9700 handles a broad range of applications smoothly, and the 16GB of RAM provides plenty of room for multitasking, especially useful for simultaneous gaming and video streaming or editing. However, the 1660 Super is starting to show its age in terms of graphics processing power. For the best balance between performance and budget, you might consider upgrading the graphics card periodically.

While it's not a top-tier gaming rig for the latest and most demanding games, the Intel Core i7-9700, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super, and 16GB DDR4 RAM provide a solid foundation for a wide range of gaming scenarios. This combination is particularly effective for 1080p gaming, providing a smooth and immersive experience. However, for more graphical demanding tasks, especially at higher resolutions and settings, a more powerful GPU is necessary.

Q: What games can run well on a GTX 1660 Super?

The GTX 1660 Super handles a wide array of games well, especially at 1080p and on ultra settings. Games like Grand Theft Auto VI, DirectX titles, and first-person shooters run efficiently on this setup. However, as you approach higher settings or resolutions, you may need to look at newer cards for optimal performance.

Q: How does the Intel Core i7-9700 perform in gaming?

The i7-9700 is robust and can handle the bulk of gaming tasks. Its multi-threading capabilities ensure smooth performance and efficient multitasking, making it a reliable choice for demanding applications.

Q: Is 16GB of RAM sufficient for gaming?

16GB of RAM is more than sufficient for most gamers. It supports high-resolution gaming, enables multi-game sessions, and handles video editing and streaming with ease. While 32GB might be more ideal for more intensive applications, 16GB still provides excellent performance and flexibility.