In the world of gaming and graphic-intensive tasks, having a powerful graphics card is crucial. Two popular contenders in this realm are the GTX 1070 and the GTX 1660. Both cards offer impressive performance and capabilities, but which one comes out on top? This article aims to compare the GTX 1070 and the GTX 1660, taking a closer look at their specifications, performance, and value for money, to determine which graphics card emerges as the ultimate champion.
Overview Of GTX 1070 And GTX 1660 Graphics Cards
The GTX 1070 and GTX 1660 are both popular graphics cards known for their impressive performance and affordability. The GTX 1070, released in 2016, was a flagship card at the time, while the GTX 1660, launched in 2019, is a mid-range option.
The GTX 1070 boasts 1920 CUDA cores, a base clock speed of 1506 MHz, and a boost clock speed of 1683 MHz. On the other hand, the GTX 1660 offers 1408 CUDA cores, a base clock speed of 1530 MHz, and a boost clock speed of 1785 MHz. Despite having fewer CUDA cores, the GTX 1660 makes up for it with newer architecture and increased memory bandwidth.
In terms of memory, the GTX 1070 features 8GB of GDDR5 RAM, while the GTX 1660 comes with 6GB of GDDR5 RAM. The memory difference may impact performance in memory-intensive tasks, such as gaming at higher resolutions or with more demanding settings.
Both graphics cards support VR and offer excellent gaming performance. The choice between the GTX 1070 and GTX 1660 ultimately depends on factors such as budget, specific performance requirements, and desired features.
Performance Comparison: FPS And Gaming Experience
When it comes to gaming, performance is the key factor that determines the overall experience. In this section, we will compare the FPS (frames per second) and gaming experience offered by the GTX 1070 and GTX 1660 graphics cards.
The GTX 1070, launched in 2016, was a flagship card and offered excellent gaming performance at the time. With its 1920 CUDA cores and 8GB GDDR5 memory, it can handle modern games at high settings with ease. The GTX 1660, on the other hand, is a more recent release, boasting 1408 CUDA cores and 6GB GDDR5 memory. While it may have fewer cores and lower memory capacity, it still delivers impressive performance in most modern games.
In terms of FPS, both cards can handle 1080p gaming with ease. The GTX 1070 might have a slight edge in some games due to its higher CUDA core count, but the GTX 1660 is no slouch either and can deliver smooth gameplay on most titles. However, if you are planning to play games at higher resolutions or utilize VR technology, the additional power of the GTX 1070 would be advantageous.
Ultimately, the choice between the two cards will depend on your specific gaming needs and budget. If you are primarily gaming at 1080p and want a solid performer without breaking the bank, the GTX 1660 is a great choice. However, if you have a higher budget and want a future-proof card that can handle more demanding games and resolutions, the GTX 1070 might be the better option.
Architecture And Technology Differences Between GTX 1070 And GTX 1660
The GTX 1070 and GTX 1660 may belong to the same graphics card family, but they differ significantly in terms of architecture and technology. The GTX 1070 is based on the Pascal architecture, while the GTX 1660 is built on the newer Turing architecture. This fundamental difference affects various aspects of their performance.
The Pascal architecture in the GTX 1070 provides more CUDA cores and higher memory bandwidth compared to the GTX 1660. However, the Turing architecture in the GTX 1660 introduces improvements in efficiency and power consumption. It also incorporates newer features like Async Compute and Variable Rate Shading that enhance the overall gaming experience.
Another significant technological difference is the inclusion of ray-tracing capabilities in certain GTX 1660 models, such as the GTX 1660 Ti and GTX 1660 Super. Ray-tracing allows for more realistic lighting and reflections in games that support this feature, although it may impact performance.
Overall, while the GTX 1070 boasts a more powerful architecture, the GTX 1660 offers newer technologies and improved efficiency, making it a solid choice for gamers looking for a balance between performance and affordability.
Power Consumption: Which Card Offers A Better Energy Efficiency?
Power consumption is an important aspect to consider when comparing graphics cards, as it not only affects the overall energy efficiency of the system but also impacts the user’s electricity bill. In this subheading, we will analyze the power consumption differences between the GTX 1070 and the GTX 1660.
The GTX 1070, based on the Pascal architecture, has a higher power draw compared to the GTX 1660, which is based on the Turing architecture. The GTX 1070 has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 150W, while the GTX 1660 has a TDP of 120W. This means that the GTX 1660 consumes less power, making it a more energy-efficient option.
Lower power consumption not only reduces electricity costs but also results in lower heat generation, which can lead to cooler and quieter operations. Additionally, systems with better energy efficiency are more environmentally friendly.
Therefore, if energy efficiency and lower power consumption are important factors for you, the GTX 1660 emerges as a clear winner in this aspect. Despite offering slightly lower performance compared to the GTX 1070, the GTX 1660’s better energy efficiency makes it a compelling choice for those looking to optimize power consumption without compromising on gaming capabilities.
Price-to-Performance Ratio: Analyzing The Value Proposition
When it comes to purchasing a graphics card, the price-to-performance ratio is often a crucial factor to consider. This subheading delves into the value proposition of the GTX 1070 and GTX 1660, helping readers determine which card offers the best bang for their buck.
The GTX 1070, released in 2016, was initially priced higher than the GTX 1660, which made its debut in 2019. However, as time went on, the price of the GTX 1070 decreased, making it a more attractive option for budget-conscious gamers. On the other hand, the GTX 1660, being a newer release, offers slightly better performance for its price point.
While the GTX 1660 delivers excellent value in terms of mid-range performance, the GTX 1070 still holds its ground, providing a competitive price-to-performance ratio. The GTX 1070 excels in delivering higher frame rates and smoother gaming experiences, making it a favorable choice for hardcore gamers.
Ultimately, the decision between the two graphics cards boils down to the budget and specific requirements of the user. Both the GTX 1070 and GTX 1660 offer great value for their respective price ranges, and users can choose based on their priorities – whether it be raw performance or a more affordable option with decent capabilities.
The Importance Of VRAM: Comparing Memory Capacities
When it comes to graphics cards, one of the key factors that can greatly impact performance is the amount of VRAM (Video Random Access Memory) they have. The VRAM is responsible for storing and accessing the data that the GPU needs to render images and textures on your screen.
In the battle between the GTX 1070 and the GTX 1660, the difference in VRAM becomes a crucial point to consider. While the GTX 1070 offers 8GB of GDDR5 memory, the GTX 1660 comes with 6GB of GDDR5 memory.
The extra 2GB of VRAM in the GTX 1070 can make a noticeable difference, especially in graphics-intensive games or when using high resolutions and graphics settings. It allows the card to store and process more data, resulting in smoother gameplay and better overall performance.
However, it’s important to note that the GTX 1660’s 6GB of VRAM is still more than enough for most modern games, providing a good balance between performance and affordability. Unless you plan on gaming at 4K resolution or using extremely high graphics settings, the GTX 1660’s VRAM capacity should suffice for most gamers.
Ultimately, the choice between the GTX 1070 and the GTX 1660 will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize higher VRAM for future-proofing and want the best possible performance, the GTX 1070 might be the better option. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly card that still offers excellent performance at 1080p resolution, the GTX 1660 is a solid choice.
Overclocking Potential: Which Card Offers Better Performance Boosts?
When it comes to overclocking potential, both the GTX 1070 and GTX 1660 offer impressive performance boosts, making it a tough choice to determine which card comes out on top.
The GTX 1070 is known for its excellent overclocking capabilities. With its Pascal architecture, it has a higher base clock speed and more CUDA cores than the GTX 1660, which allows for greater performance when pushed to its limits. However, the GTX 1660 is no slouch in this area either. Despite having a lower base clock speed, it still has a decent boost clock and can be overclocked to provide significant performance gains.
It’s worth noting that the overclocking potential of both cards depends on factors such as cooling capabilities, power supply, and silicon lottery. Some GTX 1660 models even come with factory overclocks, offering higher out-of-the-box performance.
Ultimately, choosing between the GTX 1070 and GTX 1660 for overclocking purposes will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re an enthusiast looking to squeeze every last drop of performance from your graphics card, the GTX 1070 may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option that still delivers solid overclocking potential, the GTX 1660 is a worthy contender.
Final Verdict: Determining The Winner In The GTX 1070 Vs GTX 1660 Battle
After a thorough analysis and comparison of the GTX 1070 and GTX 1660 graphics cards, it is clear that the GTX 1660 comes out on top as the winner in this battle.
While the GTX 1070 offers impressive performance and a higher number of CUDA cores, the GTX 1660 excels in various other aspects that make it a better choice for most gamers.
In terms of price-to-performance ratio, the GTX 1660 provides excellent value for money. Its lower price tag combined with the close performance it delivers to the GTX 1070 makes it a more cost-effective option.
Additionally, the GTX 1660 boasts superior energy efficiency, consuming less power while still delivering comparable performance. This not only reduces heat generation but also lowers electricity costs in the long run.
Moreover, the GTX 1660 offers a more significant overclocking potential, allowing users to squeeze out extra performance and push their gaming experience to the next level.
Considering all these factors, the GTX 1660 emerges as the clear winner in the GTX 1070 vs GTX 1660 battle, offering an excellent combination of price, performance, efficiency, and overclocking potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the GTX 1660 faster than the GTX 1070?
Yes, the GTX 1660 is generally faster than the GTX 1070. While the GTX 1070 has more CUDA cores, the newer architecture and higher clock speeds of the GTX 1660 give it the edge in most games and applications.
2. Which graphics card is better for gaming?
When it comes to gaming, both the GTX 1070 and GTX 1660 are capable graphics cards. However, the GTX 1660 offers better performance per dollar, making it a more cost-effective choice for most gamers on a budget.
3. Which graphics card offers better value for money?
The GTX 1660 generally offers better value for money compared to the GTX 1070. While the GTX 1070 may still provide slightly higher performance, the price-to-performance ratio of the GTX 1660 makes it a more attractive option for most users.
The Conclusion
In conclusion, both the GTX 1070 and the GTX 1660 are powerful graphics cards that offer impressive performance and value for gamers. However, when comparing the two, the GTX 1660 comes out on top in terms of price and efficiency, as it offers similar performance to the GTX 1070 at a lower cost. Additionally, the GTX 1660 benefits from newer architecture and improved power optimization, making it a more future-proof option for gamers on a budget. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual needs and budget constraints.