Is It Worth Upgrading Your GTX 1060?

As a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) and gaming enthusiast, you might find yourself contemplating whether or not it's worth the investment to upgrade your current GTX 1060. This article delves into the factors you should consider when deciding whether to upgrade, with a focus on prices, performance, and the overall gaming experience.

Factors to Consider Before Upgrading

When thinking about upgrading your GPU, several aspects come into play. These include the current version of your card, the games you play, the games you aspire to play in the future, and most importantly, your budget in today's market.

Current Version of Your GTX 1060

The first thing to consider is the version of your GTX 1060 you currently have. Different versions of the same card can vary in performance and features. Understanding the specs of your current card will help you make a more informed decision about whether an upgrade is necessary.

Games You Play

Your current GPU is optimized for certain games. Playing games like FIFA, Call of Duty, and Far Cry typically doesn't require a heavy GPU. However, if you're into titles like Fallaxion, Alien: Isolation, and Assassin's Creed, you might find that your current GTX 1060 struggles.

Upgrading to What?

If you do decide to upgrade, consider the future of your gaming needs. You could look to upgrade to a more modern card like the RTX 3060 Ti, the RTX 6600, or the RTX 6800 XT. Alternatively, models like the RTX 2060, RTX 2070, or even the RTX 3080 could be good options, depending on your specific requirements and budget.

Your Budget in 2023

The most critical factor in upgrading is your financial situation. With GPU prices being higher than their MSRP, it's essential to compare your budget to the current market pricing. If you can afford the new GPU, it might be worth the investment. However, if the costs are too high, saving up and waiting for a more stable market might be the better option.

Current Market and GPU Prices

Currently, the market for high-end GPUs is highly volatile, with prices fluctuating frequently. If you're considering an upgrade, it might be worthwhile to hold off until prices stabilize. In the meantime, you can use this period to save money or look into more budget-friendly options like the GTX 1660 SUPER if your budget is limited.

Conclusion

Decision-making around upgrading your GPU should be based on a combination of factors. If you're not content with your current gaming performance and have the budget to cover a high-end upgrade, it might be time to invest. However, if you're satisfied with your current GPU or your budget is limited, it might be better to wait for more favorable market conditions.

As of right now, the GTX 1060 is still a capable card for many players. If it’s not broke, don’t fix it. Until prices become more stable, or you find a better alternative, it's worth sticking with your current graphics card and saving for a future upgrade.