The world of graphics cards is ever-evolving, with manufacturers constantly introducing new technologies and updating older models to keep up with gaming demands. One such card that has captured the attention of gamers and content creators alike is the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Super. But with new entrants in the market and rapidly changing performance benchmarks, the question on everyone’s lips is: Is the RTX 2060 Super worth it in 2023? In this article, we will explore its performance, capabilities, price-to-value ratio, and who it is best suited for.
The Basics Of The RTX 2060 Super
Launched in July 2019, the RTX 2060 Super is an update to the original RTX 2060, featuring increased CUDA cores, faster clock speeds, and enhanced memory bandwidth. It was designed to offer near-RTX 2070 performance at a more budget-friendly price, making it a popular choice for gamers seeking a balance between performance and cost. Below are some key specifications of the RTX 2060 Super:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CUDA Cores | 2,176 |
| Base Clock | 1470 MHz |
| Boost Clock | 1650 MHz |
| VRAM | 8 GB GDDR6 |
| Memory Interface Width | 256-bit |
| TDP | 175 W |
With features such as ray tracing and DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling), the RTX 2060 Super was designed to meet the needs of modern gaming at 1080p and 1440p resolutions. But how does it hold up in 2023?
Performance Analysis: Gaming At 1080p And Beyond
When considering whether to invest in the RTX 2060 Super, performance is arguably the most critical factor. The card is well-suited for gaming at 1080p, delivering smooth frame rates in popular titles. Here’s how it performs across a selection of games:
1080p Gaming
At 1080p ultra settings, the RTX 2060 Super can handle most current games with ease. Titles such as Call of Duty: Warzone and Fortnite run beautifully, often hitting framerates above 60FPS. Many esports titles like League of Legends and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive can push well above 144 FPS, making it an excellent choice for competitive gamers.
1440p Gaming
While the card excels at 1080p, it can also handle 1440p gaming, albeit with some adjustments. With a few settings tweaked to high rather than ultra, players can still enjoy smooth gameplay in most modern titles. Popular games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla may require reducing the graphics settings to maintain desirable framerates, but the card is certainly capable at this resolution.
Ray Tracing And DLSS
One of the standout features of the RTX 2060 Super is its support for ray tracing and DLSS. Ray tracing improves lighting and shadow effects, making for a more immersive gaming experience. However, this feature can be demanding on hardware.
The addition of DLSS technology, which uses AI to upscale images, helps mitigate performance drops caused by ray tracing. In most cases, players can expect a performance boost while maintaining visuals closer to their original settings. Therefore, while the card can handle ray tracing in some titles, it’s best paired with DLSS for an optimal experience.
Price Considerations: Is It Worth Your Money?
As of 2023, the pricing landscape for graphics cards has seen significant changes. The semiconductor shortage and ongoing GPU availability issues have made obtaining a graphics card—any graphics card—challenging. However, as new generations come to market, the prices of older cards, including the RTX 2060 Super, tend to drop.
Current Market Prices
In 2023, the RTX 2060 Super can typically be found at varying prices ranging from $250 to $400, depending on market conditions, condition (new or used), and brand. With the introduction of the RTX 3000 and 4000 series, many users may ponder whether the 2060 Super is still a savvy purchase.
Performance-to-Price Ratio
When assessing the value of the RTX 2060 Super, one must consider its performance-to-price ratio. While newer models may offer better performance, they often come at a premium price. For gamers targeting 1080p to 1440p performance but on a tighter budget, the RTX 2060 Super stands out as a viable option. Its lower price point, combined with solid performance, makes it a commendable choice for mid-range gaming rigs.
Who Should Buy The RTX 2060 Super?
With varying performance levels and budgets in mind, understanding who the RTX 2060 Super is designed for is crucial.
Casual Gamers
For casual gamers who primarily play less demanding titles or enjoy eSports games, the RTX 2060 Super is more than sufficient. It allows them to experience modern gaming without breaking the bank, ensuring a great combination of performance and affordability.
Budget-Conscious Gamers
For gamers who want to enjoy titles at decent settings and framerates without spending exorbitantly, the RTX 2060 Super is an attractive option. With mid-range performance capable of handling most games at 1080p, it fills a gap for those who are building or upgrading systems on a budget.
Content Creators On A Budget
The RTX 2060 Super also appeals to content creators looking for a balance between gaming performance and graphical power for applications like Adobe Premiere Pro or Blender. With its 8 GB VRAM and CUDA cores, the card can handle rendering tasks efficiently while allowing for gaming during downtime.
Drawbacks Of The RTX 2060 Super
While the RTX 2060 Super presents many advantages, it’s important to consider some of its limitations:
Limited Ray Tracing Performance
Although it supports ray tracing, the performance is not on par with newer models like the RTX 3060 or RTX 3060 Ti. As ray tracing becomes more prevalent in gaming, users who prioritize this technology might feel less satisfied with the performance of the 2060 Super.
Future-Proofing Concerns
While the RTX 2060 Super is a good choice today, it may struggle with future titles as they become more demanding. If users plan to play cutting-edge AAA games for the next few years, investing in a higher-tier model could offer better longevity.
Conclusion: Is The RTX 2060 Super Worth It?
So, is the RTX 2060 Super worth it in 2023? The answer largely depends on your specific needs and use case. For those gaming primarily at 1080p or even dipping into 1440p while managing settings, the 2060 Super remains a solid contender. Its price-to-performance ratio is appealing, particularly in a market where prices fluctuate widely.
However, for gamers looking to utilize more demanding tech like ray tracing at high settings, or those wanting to future-proof their systems, considering a newer graphics card might be prudent. In summary, the RTX 2060 Super represents a compelling choice for budget-conscious users but may not be the ultimate solution for everyone.
Ultimately, it stands as a commendable option in 2023, delivering respectable performance for casual gamers and creators alike—provided its limitations are understood and accepted.
Is The RTX 2060 Super Still A Good Choice For Gaming In 2023?
The RTX 2060 Super remains a viable option for gaming in 2023, especially for those who play at 1080p resolutions. Many modern titles can still be played at high settings with decent frame rates, making it suitable for casual gamers. Additionally, it performs well in competitive games where frame rates are prioritized, allowing gamers to enjoy a smooth experience without straining their budget.
However, as more demanding games are released, some users may find limitations in the RTX 2060 Super. If you intend to play at 1440p or 4K resolutions, you might encounter performance bottlenecks, especially in graphically intensive titles. Consider your gaming preferences and the types of games you play when evaluating its worth.
How Does The RTX 2060 Super Compare To Newer GPUs?
When compared to newer GPUs like the RTX 3060 or 4060 series, the RTX 2060 Super falls behind in terms of raw performance and features. The newer generations often come equipped with better ray tracing capabilities, DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling), and more efficient architectures. This means that, while the RTX 2060 Super can still deliver great gaming experiences, it lacks some of the advancements found in the latest models.
On the other hand, the RTX 2060 Super is often available at a lower price point compared to the newer models. For gamers who are budget-conscious and not interested in the latest technology, the 2060 Super provides a solid performance-to-cost ratio. Ultimately, it depends on the user’s requirements and whether they seek cutting-edge technology or a satisfactory mid-range experience.
Can The RTX 2060 Super Handle Ray Tracing In Games?
The RTX 2060 Super was one of the first GPUs to provide ray tracing capabilities, making it a pioneer in the realm of realistic lighting and reflections in gaming. It can handle ray tracing in supported titles, but users may need to compromise on some graphical settings to maintain a smooth frame rate. Generally, playing at medium settings with ray tracing enabled can yield a good balance between visuals and performance.
With the advancements in ray tracing technology, newer graphics cards perform much better when it comes to this feature. While the RTX 2060 Super can still provide a decent ray tracing experience, players looking for high-quality visuals and high frame rates in demanding games may want to consider upgrading to a more powerful GPU. Budget and performance expectations will significantly influence the ultimate gaming experience.
What Performance Can I Expect From The RTX 2060 Super In 2023?
In 2023, users can expect the RTX 2060 Super to deliver solid performance in many popular games at 1080p resolution. Titles like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Call of Duty: Warzone can run efficiently with most settings set to high. Players can also enjoy competitive titles and esports games with high refresh rates and low latency, making it a strong contender for gamers who prioritize responsiveness.
As games continue to evolve and demand more from hardware, some might find the performance of the RTX 2060 Super starts to lag behind newer models. While it will still handle many games reasonably well, users with a keen interest in launching graphically demanding, AAA titles might experience performance drops or the need to lower graphical settings to maintain fluid gameplay. Therefore, assess your gaming habits and future-proofing aspirations when considering this GPU.
Is It Worth Upgrading From A GTX 1060 To An RTX 2060 Super?
Upgrading from a GTX 1060 to an RTX 2060 Super can provide significant performance improvements, particularly in memory bandwidth and overall graphical fidelity. Users can expect better frame rates and the ability to play modern games at higher settings. The introduction of ray tracing and DLSS further enhances the gaming experience, allowing for more realistic visuals while maintaining performance.
However, the decision to upgrade should also consider your gaming needs and the specific titles you play. If you’re primarily playing older or less demanding games, the improvements may not justify the cost of the upgrade. On the other hand, if you want to engage in current AAA titles and enjoy advanced features, investing in the RTX 2060 Super can definitely enhance your gaming setup.
How Does Pricing For The RTX 2060 Super Look In 2023?
As of 2023, pricing for the RTX 2060 Super remains competitive, often appealing to budget-conscious gamers. Depending on the market availability, you might find the card priced lower than newer models like the RTX 3060 and 4060, making it an attractive option for those who want solid performance without a hefty investment. Keep an eye on sales and used markets, as these can offer bargains on the 2060 Super.
Nonetheless, prices can fluctuate based on market demand and supply chain issues. If you’re considering purchasing this GPU, it’s wise to compare various retailers and platforms. Additionally, consider potential alternative options, as price drops or new models can shift the landscape of what constitutes the best value in graphics cards at this point in time.
What Are The Best Alternative Options If I Decide Against The RTX 2060 Super?
If you decide against the RTX 2060 Super, there are several alternative options that could suit your needs better. The RTX 3060 offers improved performance, better ray tracing capabilities, and access to newer technologies like DLSS 2.0. Depending on pricing at the time, the 3060 could be a more future-proof choice for gamers looking for longevity in their graphics card investment.
Additionally, if you are on a tighter budget, the AMD Radeon RX 6600 XT is also a solid contender. It competes closely with the RTX 2060 Super while often providing better performance in traditional rasterization tasks. Depending on the games you play and your preference for vendor ecosystems, either of these alternatives would still give you excellent performance in 2023, making your final decision dependent on personal priorities, budget, and preference for features like ray tracing.