The graphics processing unit (GPU) market has been witnessing a steady influx of new and powerful models, making it increasingly difficult for gamers and enthusiasts to choose the right one for their needs. Two popular options that often come under consideration are the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super and the GTX 1070 Ti. While both GPUs have their strengths and weaknesses, the question remains: is the 1660 Super better than the 1070 Ti? In this article, we’ll delve into the specifications, performance, and features of both GPUs to determine which one emerges victorious.
Specifications and Architecture
Before we dive into the performance and features, let’s take a closer look at the specifications and architecture of both GPUs.
GTX 1660 Super
- Based on the TU116 architecture
- 12 nm process node
- 1408 CUDA cores
- 88 TMUs (texture mapping units)
- 48 ROPs (render outputs)
- 128-bit memory bus
- 6 GB GDDR6 memory
- 1255 MHz base clock speed
- 1785 MHz boost clock speed
GTX 1070 Ti
- Based on the GP104 architecture
- 16 nm process node
- 2432 CUDA cores
- 152 TMUs
- 64 ROPs
- 256-bit memory bus
- 8 GB GDDR5 memory
- 1607 MHz base clock speed
- 1683 MHz boost clock speed
As we can see, the GTX 1070 Ti has more CUDA cores, TMUs, and ROPs than the GTX 1660 Super. However, the GTX 1660 Super has a newer architecture and a more modern process node, which could potentially give it an edge in terms of power efficiency and overall performance.
Performance
Now that we’ve looked at the specifications, let’s examine the real-world performance of both GPUs.
Gaming Performance
In terms of gaming performance, the GTX 1070 Ti has historically been considered a more powerful GPU than the GTX 1660 Super. However, thanks to the improved architecture and manufacturing process, the GTX 1660 Super has managed to bridge the gap. In fact, in some modern games, the GTX 1660 Super has been known to outperform the GTX 1070 Ti.
| Game | GTX 1660 Super FPS (1080p) | GTX 1070 Ti FPS (1080p) |
|---|---|---|
| Assassin’s Creed Odyssey | 55 | 52 |
| Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Wildlands | 60 | 58 |
| The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | 65 | 63 |
In the above table, we can see that the GTX 1660 Super manages to outperform the GTX 1070 Ti in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey and Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Wildlands, while the GTX 1070 Ti takes the lead in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. However, it’s essential to note that these results are highly dependent on the game and the specific system configuration.
Compute Performance
When it comes to compute tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and scientific simulations, the GTX 1070 Ti takes a clear lead. This is due to its higher number of CUDA cores and higher double-precision floating-point performance.
Power Consumption and Temperature
Power consumption and temperature are critical factors to consider when choosing a GPU.
Power Consumption
The GTX 1660 Super has a TDP of 125W, while the GTX 1070 Ti has a TDP of 180W. This means that the GTX 1660 Super is significantly more power-efficient than the GTX 1070 Ti.
Temperature
The GTX 1660 Super has a maximum temperature of 89°C, while the GTX 1070 Ti has a maximum temperature of 94°C. This indicates that the GTX 1660 Super runs cooler than the GTX 1070 Ti, which can be beneficial for systems with limited cooling capabilities.
Features
Both GPUs have their unique set of features that set them apart.
GTX 1660 Super
- Supports NVIDIA’s DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) technology
- Has improved performance in ray tracing and AI-enhanced games
- Supports Variable Rate Shading (VRS) for improved performance in certain games
- Has a more modern architecture and manufacturing process
GTX 1070 Ti
- Has more CUDA cores and higher double-precision floating-point performance
- Supports SLI (Scalable Link Interface) for multi-GPU setups
- Has a higher memory bandwidth thanks to its 256-bit memory bus
- Has a higher maximum resolution of 8K at 60 Hz
Price and Availability
The price and availability of both GPUs can vary depending on the region and retailer.
GTX 1660 Super
- The GTX 1660 Super has a launch price of around $229
- Widely available from various retailers and manufacturers
GTX 1070 Ti
- The GTX 1070 Ti has a launch price of around $449
- Still available from some retailers, but may be harder to find due to its age
Conclusion
So, is the GTX 1660 Super better than the GTX 1070 Ti? The answer depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re a gamer who wants the best performance in modern games without breaking the bank, the GTX 1660 Super is an excellent choice. Its improved architecture and manufacturing process make it a more power-efficient and cooler-running GPU than the GTX 1070 Ti.
On the other hand, if you’re into compute-intensive tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, or scientific simulations, the GTX 1070 Ti’s higher number of CUDA cores and higher double-precision floating-point performance make it a better option.
Ultimately, the choice between the GTX 1660 Super and the GTX 1070 Ti depends on your specific requirements and budget. Both GPUs have their strengths and weaknesses, and it’s essential to weigh these factors before making a decision.
What is the main difference between the 1660 Super and 1070 Ti?
The main difference between the 1660 Super and 1070 Ti is the architecture and generation they belong to. The 1660 Super is a part of the newer 16 series from NVIDIA, which offers improved performance and efficiency compared to the 10 series. On the other hand, the 1070 Ti is a part of the older 10 series from NVIDIA. This difference in architecture translates to differences in performance, power consumption, and features.
The 1660 Super has better performance in modern games that utilize DXR (DirectX Raytracing) and AI-enhanced features, thanks to its Tensor cores and improved CUDA cores. The 1070 Ti, on the other hand, still offers great performance in traditional games that don’t utilize these features. However, it’s worth noting that the 1070 Ti is an older card and is no longer being manufactured, which means it may be harder to find and purchase.
Which GPU is better for 1080p gaming?
For 1080p gaming, the 1660 Super is a slightly better option. It offers higher frame rates and better performance in modern games that utilize DXR and AI-enhanced features. The 1660 Super also has faster memory and improved CUDA cores, which helps in handling demanding games at high frame rates.
That being said, the 1070 Ti is still a powerful card that can handle 1080p gaming with ease. It may not offer the same level of performance as the 1660 Super, but it can still deliver high frame rates and smooth performance in most games. If you’re looking for a more affordable option for 1080p gaming, the 1070 Ti might be a good choice.
Is the 1660 Super worth the extra cost compared to the 1070 Ti?
The 1660 Super is generally priced higher than the 1070 Ti, which may make it seem like a less attractive option for those on a budget. However, the 1660 Super offers several features that make it worth the extra cost. These include improved performance in modern games, better power efficiency, and support for newer technologies like DXR and AI-enhanced features.
If you’re looking to play the latest games at high frame rates and want to take advantage of the latest features, the 1660 Super is worth the extra cost. However, if you’re on a tight budget and just want a good GPU for 1080p gaming, the 1070 Ti might be a more attractive option. It’s also worth noting that the 1070 Ti is an older card, so its price may drop over time.
Which GPU has better cooling and power efficiency?
The 1660 Super has better cooling and power efficiency compared to the 1070 Ti. The 1660 Super uses a more modern and efficient cooling system, which helps to reduce temperatures and noise levels. It also has a lower TDP (thermal design power) compared to the 1070 Ti, which means it consumes less power and generates less heat.
The 1070 Ti, on the other hand, uses an older cooling system that is less efficient. It also has a higher TDP compared to the 1660 Super, which means it consumes more power and generates more heat. This can lead to higher temperatures and noise levels, especially during intense gaming sessions.
Can the 1660 Super handle 1440p and 4K gaming?
The 1660 Super is capable of handling 1440p gaming with ease, and can even handle some 4K gaming, depending on the game and settings. It has enough VRAM (video random access memory) and bandwidth to handle high-resolution textures and graphics. However, it may struggle with the most demanding 4K games at high frame rates.
The 1660 Super is a mid-range GPU, and while it’s powerful, it’s not designed for extreme 4K gaming. If you want to play the latest games at 4K resolutions with high frame rates, you may need a more powerful GPU like the RTX 3070 or RTX 3080.
Is the 1070 Ti still a good option for those on a budget?
Yes, the 1070 Ti is still a good option for those on a budget. While it’s an older card, it still offers great performance for 1080p gaming and can even handle some 1440p gaming. It’s also generally cheaper than the 1660 Super, which makes it a more attractive option for those on a tight budget.
However, it’s worth noting that the 1070 Ti is no longer being manufactured, which means supply is limited and prices may vary. You may be able to find a good deal on a used or refurbished 1070 Ti, but be sure to do your research and check the warranty and return policy before making a purchase.
Which GPU is better for mining and other compute-intensive tasks?
The 1660 Super is better for mining and other compute-intensive tasks due to its improved architecture and feature set. It has faster memory and improved CUDA cores, which helps in tasks like cryptocurrency mining, machine learning, and other compute-intensive tasks.
The 1070 Ti, on the other hand, is an older card that may not be as efficient or effective for mining and other compute-intensive tasks. It’s also worth noting that the 1660 Super has features like Tensor cores and RT cores, which can help in tasks like AI-enhanced gaming and ray tracing.