Is the GTX 1060 Worth Buying in 2019: Future-Proofing Your Gaming Rig
When considering the purchase of a new graphics card, especially one in the mid-tier range, the question of the GTX 1060 arises. This article explores whether the GTX 1060 is a viable choice in 2019, especially with the advent of newer, more powerful cards like the RTX, and the release of new GPUs from both NVIDIA and AMD.
The Future of Gaming
The GTX 1060 was a game-changer in its time, offering a balance of performance and affordability. While it remains a solid choice for older games and esports titles, the landscape of gaming has evolved, and newer cards like the RTX series and 1660 Super offer significant advantages. These new cards have been designed with advanced features such as ray tracing, AI enhancements, and improved performance, making them the preferred choice for many gamers.
Considering the RTX 1060 Super and GTX 1660
For those looking to future-proof their rigs, it is highly recommended to consider upgrading to a card with more advanced capabilities. For instance, the RTX 1060 Super offers a significant performance boost, especially in newer games that leverage ray tracing and other advanced rendering techniques. Additionally, you might want to look at the GTX 1660 series, which provide a similar performance boost at a competitive price, with the GTX 1660 Super being marginally superior.
Comparing 1060 and 2060
While the GTX 2060 is an impressive upgrade with about 30% more performance, it also comes with a significant price premium. The GTX 1060 can be had at a much lower cost, and the delta in performance may not justify the extra expense for most gamers. On the other hand, the GTX 1060 6GB in a work computer for gaming breaks, can achieve playable frames per second (FPS) in titles like Far Cry: New Dawn, albeit at medium settings.
Waiting for the Investor: GTX 1660 Super and GTX 1660 Ti
The 16 Series cards are currently the best choice for gamers looking for a balance between performance and price. According to benchmarks and rumors, the upcoming GTX 1660 Ti is expected to match or even outperform the 1070 at a much lower MSRP of around $279. If this rumor holds, the 1660 Ti could be a compelling option for gamers who want to future-proof their rigs without breaking the bank.
Long-Term Considerations
When evaluating the long-term value of different GPUs, it's crucial to consider the ecosystem and support from manufacturers. AMD tends to offer better value for money, especially when it comes to long-term support. Games are increasingly utilizing AMD's GPUs, which can offer better VRAM and general performance at similar or lower prices than NVIDIA cards. This alignment with the gaming market means that AMD GPUs are likely to stay relevant for longer, making them a better investment for many gamers.
Conclusion: Future-Proofing Your Rig
While the GTX 1060 remains a solid choice for recreational gaming and older titles, the rapidly evolving nature of gaming technology suggests that investing in a more future-proofed solution like the GTX 1660 Ti or the 1660 Super might be a wiser decision. As for the GTX 2060 vs. 1060 6GB, the 2060's higher performance and more advanced features make it an appealing option, but the additional cost may not be justified for all gamers unless the next wave of games demands the extra power. For the long-term, AMD's offerings often provide a better value proposition, but the final choice depends on your specific gaming needs and financial budget.