When it comes to selecting the perfect graphics card (GPU) for your gaming rig or creative workstation, two names often come to the forefront: the GTX 1660 Super and the GTX 1070. Both GPUs have established themselves as solid choices in the mid-range segment of the market, but which one truly offers the best performance? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the specifications, performance benchmarks, power consumption, and overall value of the GTX 1660 Super and GTX 1070, helping you make an informed decision for your next upgrade.
Understanding The Basics: GTX 1660 Super Vs GTX 1070
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, it’s important to grasp the fundamental differences between these two graphics cards. Both are products of NVIDIA, a leader in the GPU space, but they belong to different generations and architectures.
- **GTX 1660 Super:** Released in 2019, this card is part of NVIDIA’s Turing architecture but lacks real-time ray tracing capabilities.
- **GTX 1070:** Launched in 2016, this GPU is based on the Pascal architecture and is known for its efficiency and impressive graphics rendering capabilities.
Understanding these distinctions helps set the stage for the performance comparisons that will follow.
Specifications Comparison: GTX 1660 Super Vs GTX 1070
Let’s delve into the specifications of both GPUs. Specifications serve as the backbone of performance assessments, so it’s crucial to analyze them thoroughly.
| Specification | GTX 1660 Super | GTX 1070 |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Turing | Pascal |
| CUDA Cores | 1408 | 1920 |
| Base Clock | 1530 MHz | 1506 MHz |
| Boost Clock | 1785 MHz | 1683 MHz |
| Memory | 6 GB GDDR6 | 8 GB GDDR5 |
| Memory Interface | 192-bit | 256-bit |
| TDP | 125W | 150W |
| Recommended PSU | 450W | 500W |
While the GTX 1070 boasts more CUDA cores and a wider memory bandwidth due to its 256-bit interface, the GTX 1660 Super uses faster GDDR6 memory, giving it an advantage in memory speed and efficiency.
Performance Benchmarks: A Closer Look
Performance benchmarks provide a real-world context to the specifications discussed. They illuminate how each GPU performs in various gaming scenarios and workloads, which is vital for potential buyers.
Gaming Performance
When playing modern games at 1080p or 1440p, both the GTX 1660 Super and GTX 1070 deliver commendable results. However, the performance can vary based on game optimization and settings. Benchmarks from multiple sources show us the following:
- In titles like **Call of Duty: Modern Warfare**, the GTX 1070 maintains a higher average frame rate, offering smoother gameplay at ultra settings.
- In games that focus more on memory bandwidth and newer optimizations, such as **Cyberpunk 2077**, the GTX 1660 Super shows promising performance, sometimes closing the gap between the two GPUs.
Content Creation Performance
For users interested in content creation, GPU performance can greatly impact rendering times and multitasking capabilities. Professionals using software like Adobe Premiere Pro or other editing tools may find the GTX 1070 slightly advantageous due to its larger memory capacity. However, the optimized architecture of the GTX 1660 Super can perform nearly on par in many tasks, especially when using features that leverage CUDA cores effectively.
Power Consumption And Efficiency
Another vital aspect to consider when comparing GPUs is power consumption. The GTX 1660 Super excels in this area, showcasing a lower TDP of 125W, while the GTX 1070 has a TDP of 150W.
Efficiency Ratings
In real-world scenarios:
– The GTX 1660 Super can deliver good performance with less power, making it an attractive option for energy-conscious users.
– The GTX 1070, while slightly less efficient, still offers exceptional performance that some may deem worth the extra power consumption.
Ultimately, if you’re focusing on overall cost-effectiveness when it comes to electricity bills and thermals, the GTX 1660 Super might be the better choice.
Price To Performance Ratio: Which Card Offers More Bang For Your Buck?
Evaluating the price-to-performance ratio is crucial for budget-conscious gamers. As of the latest market trends in 2023, the GPU market has seen fluctuations in pricing due to various factors, including supply chain issues and the popularity of gaming among consumers.
Current Market Prices
- GTX 1660 Super: Averaging around $250.
- GTX 1070: Generally found for around $300 to $350, depending on the seller and condition (new vs. used).
Given that the performance differences are often marginal, the GTX 1660 Super presents a more compelling argument for budget-oriented buyers.
Future-Proofing Your Build: Which GPU Is More Viable Long-Term?
Long-term viability hinges on a few factors: performance longevity, support for new technologies, and overall market trends.
Support For New Technologies
The GTX 1660 Super, though lacking in ray tracing capabilities, can still handle newer titles efficiently. However, its architecture is not as future-ready compared to newer releases within the RTX series. That said:
- As game developers continue to focus on advanced rendering techniques, the GTX 1070’s larger VRAM and robust architecture may allow it to handle upcoming titles slightly better than the GTX 1660 Super.
Choosing Between The GTX 1660 Super And GTX 1070
So, which GPU should you choose? Ultimately, your decision should stem from a holistic view of your gaming needs, budget, and long-term plans.
Best Use Cases
- Choose the GTX 1660 Super if you:
- Are looking for a budget-friendly option with great performance at 1080p.
- Prefer lower power consumption and operational temperatures.
Want an affordable upgrade for casual gaming without future-proofing as a top priority.
Choose the GTX 1070 if you:
- Prioritize raw performance and plan to play at higher resolutions (1440p or even 4K).
- Are involved in content creation and want the added VRAM for multitasking.
- Don’t mind spending a bit more for potentially better longevity in gaming performance.
Final Thoughts
In the battle of the GTX 1660 Super versus the GTX 1070, both cards have their merits. The GTX 1660 Super is a powerhouse in its own right, appealing to most gamers looking to play at 1080p without breaking the bank. Meanwhile, the GTX 1070 remains a formidable contender for those seeking higher performance and greater future-proofing.
Regardless of your choice, taking the time to assess your specific needs and budget will lead to a more satisfactory decision. Embrace the gaming experiences each GPU offers, and enjoy the thrill of gameplay!
What Are The Key Specifications Of The GTX 1660 Super?
The GTX 1660 Super features 6GB of GDDR6 memory and operates on a 192-bit memory interface. With a base clock speed of around 1530 MHz and a boost clock speed reaching up to 1785 MHz, it provides a well-rounded performance for 1080p gaming. This GPU is based on the Turing architecture but lacks the RT and Tensor Cores found in NVIDIA’s RTX series.
In terms of power consumption, the GTX 1660 Super has a TDP of 125 watts, making it a more energy-efficient option. It also supports features like NVIDIA’s G-Sync and has a wider performance capability in modern titles when compared to its predecessors, offering a solid performance for both gamers and content creators alike.
What Are The Key Specifications Of The GTX 1070?
The GTX 1070, on the other hand, is equipped with 8GB of GDDR5 memory and uses a 256-bit memory interface. With a base clock speed of 1506 MHz and a boost speed of 1683 MHz, the 1070 was well-regarded for its ability to handle 1440p gaming at high settings. It is built on the Pascal architecture, which is known for its computational efficiency and robust performance.
Despite its older architecture, the GTX 1070 boasts a TDP of 150 watts, resulting in slightly higher power consumption. Although it cannot leverage the newer features presented in the Turing architecture, it still provides great frame rates in a variety of games, making it a strong candidate for gamers looking for value.
How Does Gaming Performance Compare Between The GTX 1660 Super And GTX 1070?
In terms of raw gaming performance at 1080p, both the GTX 1660 Super and GTX 1070 hold their ground, but benchmarks often showcase the GTX 1070 edging out in terms of frame rates. The additional VRAM it offers can be beneficial in more demanding games, particularly those that require higher texture detail or are configured for 1440p or higher resolutions.
However, when it comes to newer titles optimized for modern GPUs, the GTX 1660 Super often performs surprisingly well, sometimes matching or even surpassing the 1070 in specific scenarios due to architectural advantages. Consequently, while the GTX 1070 can provide a better experience in certain games, the GTX 1660 Super excels in scenarios where efficiency and performance per watt are prioritized.
Which GPU Is More Suitable For 1080p Gaming?
For dedicated 1080p gaming, both GPUs are quite capable, but the GTX 1660 Super is often recommended for most gamers today, as it has an equal or superior performance in many modern titles. It can handle high settings in popular games while maintaining competitive frame rates without breaking the bank. Its efficiency also makes it easier to accommodate in smaller or less powerful systems.
On the other hand, the GTX 1070 may shine in older AAA titles and some competitive games, benefiting from its higher VRAM. Ultimately, the choice for 1080p gaming may come down to personal preferences regarding power consumption, budget, and whether gamers plan on upgrading their resolution in the near future.
Which GPU Offers Better Value For Its Price?
When evaluating price-to-performance ratios, the GTX 1660 Super generally offers better value, particularly for budget-conscious gamers. Priced lower than the GTX 1070 and still delivering excellent gaming performance, it stands out as an attractive option for those who primarily focus on 1080p gaming. This makes it an appealing choice for many users who want quality without the hefty investments.
However, if a gamer can find a good deal on a GTX 1070, it may present a slightly better overall performance for high-resolution gaming or more demanding applications. Thus, potential buyers should weigh the cost difference and performance requirements to determine the better value based on their specific use case.
Are There Any Significant Differences In Power Consumption?
Yes, power consumption differences between the GTX 1660 Super and GTX 1070 are quite notable. The GTX 1660 Super has a lower TDP of around 125 watts, which makes it an energy-efficient choice, particularly for gamers who prioritize maintaining lower electricity bills or reducing heat output in their systems. This lower power draw is also beneficial for users with smaller power supplies.
In contrast, the GTX 1070’s TDP of 150 watts means it consumes more power. While this isn’t excessively high, users looking to build a more energy-efficient setup may find this aspect less desirable. Ultimately, the lower power consumption of the GTX 1660 Super can translate into a quieter and cooler operation, appealing to many contemporary PC builders.
Can I Run Ray Tracing With Either Of These GPUs?
Neither the GTX 1660 Super nor the GTX 1070 supports hardware-accelerated ray tracing, as they are not built with the necessary RT cores that NVIDIA introduced with its RTX series. Therefore, for gamers interested in experimenting with ray tracing effects, they would need to look at the RTX lineup, as both of these models lack the capability to deliver ray-traced graphics efficiently.
However, the GTX 1660 Super still performs well in traditional rendering and can maintain good frame rates in current titles without ray tracing. Gamers focusing on gameplay rather than visual fidelity may not find the absence of ray tracing to be a significant drawback, especially since these GPUs can handle most modern games effectively at high settings.
Which GPU Is Better For Content Creation Tasks?
For content creation, both the GTX 1660 Super and the GTX 1070 offer decent performance, but the GTX 1070 has an advantage due to its additional VRAM. This increased memory can be crucial for tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and graphic design, enabling smoother handling of larger projects and more complex timelines.
That said, the GTX 1660 Super is an efficient performer for lighter content creation tasks and can render quick results for those working primarily on 1080p video editing or graphic design. Ultimately, the choice between these GPUs for content creation should be based on the specific types of projects and workloads users expect to encounter.