Is the NVIDIA GTX 1060 the Best GPU for 1080p Gaming?
The question of whether the NVIDIA GTX 1060 is the best GPU for 1080p gaming is a common one, with many gamers wanting to know if it delivers top-tier performance. The 1060, priced between 300 to 500 USD, has certainly earned its reputation as a versatile and budget-friendly graphics card. However, is it truly the best option for 1921080 gaming? Let's dive into the details.
Performance at 1080p
Yes, the GTX 1060 6GB is considered one of the best GPUs for 1080p gaming. With its 6GB of GDDR5 memory and DirectX 12 support, it can power through most games at Ultra settings, achieving frame rates of 80FPS or higher. In fact, the 1060 is powerful enough to reach 1080p maximum frame rates in some games, except for a few at the highest settings.
According to benchmarks, the GTX 1060 6GB performs nearly as well as the older GTX 980. This makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a balance between performance and cost. For those aiming for 4K gaming, the 1060 can handle lower to medium settings comfortably, making it a future-proof option albeit with lower settings.
Comparisons with AMD and DirectX 12 Games
However, the performance of the GTX 1060 can vary depending on the game and the DirectX version. For games based on DirectX 11, the GTX 1060 is highly effective. But in games that support DirectX 12, such as Battlefield 1, the 1060 competes closely with the AMD Radeon RX 480. In some cases, AMD's cards can deliver more consistent frame rates, sometimes by a 10-20 FPS margin.
For titles like Infinite Warfare played on Ultra settings, which demand around 7GB of video memory, the 1060 may struggle compared to the RX 480 used in a crossfire configuration. If future-proofing is a priority, the AMD cards could be a better choice due to their superior performance in DirectX 12 games.
Cost-Effectiveness
While the GTX 1060 excels in 1080p gaming, it's not always the most cost-effective option. For the best value, you might look to other GPUs. For instance, the AMD Radeon RX 470 and NVIDIA GTX 1050 Ti are both strong contenders for the most cost-effective 1080p gaming card.
The GTX 1050 Ti is among the most cost-effective GPUs right now, offering a solid 60FPS or higher gaming experience at high to ultra settings. While it may not match the 1060 in raw performance, it delivers excellent value for money, making it a great choice for gamers on a budget.
Future-Proofing and Long-Term Performance
Gamers who prioritize future-proofing, especially for DirectX 12 games, may lean towards AMD's cards. The RX 480, when used in crossfire with another RX 480, can provide the necessary additional power for these demanding titles. However, if you're content with the current generation of games and don't mind adjusting settings, the 1060 remains a highly capable choice for 1080p gaming.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your priorities and budget. For a balance of performance and cost-effectiveness, the GTX 1060 is a strong pick. But if a smoother and more consistent experience is what you're after, especially with future game releases in mind, consider the AMD options or the GTX 1050 Ti.