In the ever-evolving world of gaming and computer graphics, keeping up with the latest hardware can be a daunting task. Graphics processing units (GPUs) play a crucial role in delivering stunning visuals and smooth gameplay experiences. Today, we turn our attention to the NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super, a mid-range GPU that has garnered considerable attention since its release. In this article, we will assess whether the GTX 1660 Super remains a worthy option for gamers and content creators in light of recent advancements in GPU technology.
Performance Overview:
The NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super made its debut in late 2019, offering a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the GTX 1660. Built on NVIDIA’s Turing architecture, the GTX 1660 Super boasts 6GB of GDDR6 memory and 1408 CUDA cores. While it may not boast the latest ray tracing technology found in the RTX series, it still holds its ground as a reliable performer in its price range.
Gaming Performance:
When it comes to gaming, the GTX 1660 Super delivers impressive results. It comfortably handles popular titles at 1080p resolution and high settings, providing smooth gameplay experiences. Although it may struggle to achieve consistent 60 frames per second (FPS) in graphically demanding games at maximum settings, tweaking the settings slightly can yield excellent results. For those primarily interested in 1080p gaming, the GTX 1660 Super offers an excellent balance between price and performance.
Content Creation and Productivity:
Beyond gaming, the GTX 1660 Super remains a capable GPU for content creators and productivity tasks. Whether you’re editing videos, rendering 3D models, or working with graphic design software, the GTX 1660 Super can handle these tasks with relative ease. It may not match the performance of higher-end GPUs, but it provides a reliable and cost-effective solution for entry-level or budget-conscious professionals.
Competitive Landscape:
Since the release of the GTX 1660 Super, the GPU market has seen significant advancements. NVIDIA’s own RTX 3000 series and the AMD Radeon RX 6000 series have introduced new levels of performance and features, including hardware-accelerated ray tracing and AI-enhanced technologies. However, these newer GPUs come at a premium price, making the GTX 1660 Super an attractive option for those on a tighter budget.
Future Proofing Considerations:
When evaluating the long-term viability of a GPU, it is essential to consider future trends in gaming and software development. While the GTX 1660 Super may lack certain cutting-edge features, it is still likely to serve you well for the next few years. However, if you anticipate playing upcoming titles with demanding system requirements or require advanced features like ray tracing, you may want to consider more recent GPU offerings.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super remains a reliable and capable GPU, especially for budget-conscious gamers and content creators. Its performance in 1080p gaming and productivity tasks makes it a solid choice for those looking to strike a balance between price and performance. While it may not offer the latest and greatest features found in newer GPUs, the GTX 1660 Super still holds its own in terms of value and versatility. However, it is important to evaluate your specific needs and future-proofing considerations before making a final decision.
FAQs
Is the NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super still worth buying in 2023?
Yes, the GTX 1660 Super is still a viable option in 2023, especially for gamers and content creators on a budget. While it may not have the latest cutting-edge features, it offers solid performance in 1080p gaming and content creation tasks.
Can the GTX 1660 Super handle ray tracing?
No, the GTX 1660 Super does not have dedicated hardware for ray tracing. It belongs to the GTX series, which lacks the RT (ray tracing) cores found in NVIDIA’s RTX series. If ray tracing is a priority for you, consider the RTX 20 or 30 series GPUs.
How does the GTX 1660 Super compare to the newer RTX 3000 series?
The GTX 1660 Super is a mid-range GPU, while the RTX 3000 series represents the higher-end segment. The RTX 3000 series offers superior performance, advanced features like hardware-accelerated ray tracing and DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling), and better future-proofing. However, the GTX 1660 Super still holds its ground as a more affordable option for those with a limited budget.
What resolution can the GTX 1660 Super handle?
The GTX 1660 Super is well-suited for 1080p gaming. It can handle most games at this resolution with high settings and provide smooth gameplay experiences. However, it may struggle to consistently achieve 60 FPS in graphically demanding titles at maximum settings.
Can the GTX 1660 Super be used for content creation?
Yes, the GTX 1660 Super can be used for content creation tasks such as video editing, 3D modeling, and graphic design. While it may not match the performance of higher-end GPUs, it is still a capable option for entry-level or budget-conscious professionals looking for a cost-effective solution.