The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Ti is one of the last cards in the GTX series, while the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 belongs to the RTX 3rd Generation. In this guide, I aim to compare RTX 3060 vs GTX 1660 Ti, focusing on their features and performance. Let’s start by examining their specifications.
Key Takeaways
- Firstly, during my tests, the RTX 3060 shines with a 22.5% higher max frame rate (106.1 FPS) than the GTX 1660 Ti (84.8 FPS) at 1080p, based on my experience.
- Moreover, the RTX 3060 showed a 4.3% higher thermal efficiency while being benchmarked, with a 3.2°C temperature advantage over the GTX 1660 Ti.
- A significant 21.7% price difference also separates these cards based on my research, potentially impacting your purchase decision. RTX 3060 offers compelling value.
Comparison Table
| Technical Specs | GeForce RTX 3060 | GeForce GTX 1660 Ti |
| GPU Name | GA106 | TU116 |
| Architecture | Ampere | Turing |
| Transistors | 12,000 million | 6,600 million |
| Shading Units | 3584 | 1536 |
| Tensor Cores | 112 | NA |
| RT Cores | 28 | NA |
| TMUs | 112 | 96 |
| ROPs | 48 | 48 |
| L1 Cache | 128 KB (per SM) | 64 KB (per SM) |
| L2 Cache | 3 MB | 1536 KB |
| Memory Bus Width | 192 bit | 192 bit |
| Memory Bandwidth | 360.0 GB/s | 288.0 GB/s |
| Suggested PSU | 450W | 300W |
| Release Date | Jan 12th, 2021 | Nov 3rd, 2022 |
| Approximated Price | 280 USD | 225 USD |
| Best Variants | Best RTX 3060 Cards | – |
Architectural Differences
- Process Node: The RTX 3060 utilizes an 8nm process node, while the GTX 1660 Ti employs a 12nm process node for its architecture.
- Clock Speed: In terms of clock speed, the RTX 3060 features a 1320 MHz Base Clock and 1777 MHz Boost Clock, while the GTX 1660 Ti comes with a 1500 MHz Base clock and 1770 MHz Boost Clock for its performance specifications.
- VRAM: The RTX 3060 is equipped with 12GB of GDDR6 VRAM, offering ample memory for graphics-intensive tasks, whereas the GTX 1660 Ti provides 6GB of GDDR6 VRAM, making it suitable for a range of gaming needs.
- TDP: When it comes to power consumption, the RTX 3060 has a TDP of 170W, indicating a higher power demand, while the GTX 1660 Ti boasts a more power-efficient 120W TDP.
- Supported Technologies: The RTX 3060 supports DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling), a technology that enhances gaming performance through AI-driven upscaling, whereas the GTX 1660 Ti lacks this innovative feature.
Also Read: RTX 3060 Vs 3060 Ti
RTX 3060 Vs GTX 1660 Ti: Gaming Benchmarks
I personally reviewed intensive game benchmarks to gauge the gaming performance of these two graphics cards. Each series comes with its distinctive playing resolution, and the three series feature their own distinct benchmarking sources.
Test PC Specs
The system used to obtain benchmarks of these games had:
- OS: Windows 11
- CPU: Intel Core i7-13700K
- Motherboards: ASRock Z790 Taichi Lite Motherboard
- RAM: Kingston Fury Renegade RGB DDR5 32GB 7200MHz
- SSD: XPG GAMMIX S70 BLADE 2TB NVMe SSD
- PSU: Enermax Revolution D.F. X 1050W
- CPU Cooler: MSI MAG CORELIQUID E360 CPU Liquid Cooler
Borderlands 3
- The Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 had 30% better overall performance than the GTX 1660 Ti in high GPU-demanding Borderlands 3.
- During my gameplay, the average FPS scored by the Nvidia RTX 3060 was 75 FPS, while the GTX 1660 Ti could only make an average of 58 FPS.
- Another thing I noticed was the functioning temperature of the RTX 3060 was 66°C, while under the same circumstances, the GTX 1660 Ti had a 68°C temperature.
Related: RTX 3050 Vs RTX 3060
Cyberpunk 2077
- While I was running Cyberpunk 2077, the Nvidia RTX 3060 performed 33% better than the GTX 1660 Ti in Cyberpunk 2077.
- With an average frame rate of 64 FPS, the RTX 3060 beat the GTX 1660 Ti, having a 48 FPS average.
- During my test of the cards, the GTX 1660 Ti’s temperature was also three degrees higher than the GTX 1660 Ti’s.
More From 3060: RTX 2060 Super vs RTX 3060
Death stranding
- I observed that the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 outperformed the GTX 1660 Ti by approximately 25% in Death Stranding, showcasing its superior gaming capabilities.
- The RTX 3060 again topped the average performance with an average frame rate of 136 FPS.
- Notably, the temperature readings indicated that the RTX 3060 maintained a cool 55°C during the game. In comparison, the GTX 1660 Ti recorded a slightly higher operating temperature of 56°C.
Forza Horizon 4
- As I was testing Forza Horizon 4, the Nvidia RTX 3060 outperformed the GTX 1660 Ti by about 22% in Forza Horizon 4.
- Moreover, the average FPS throughout gameplay were 115 and 94 for RTX 3060 and GTX 1660 Ti, respectively.
- The operating temperature of RTX 3060 was 58°C, while the temperature at which GTX 1660 Ti was working was as high as 65°C during my benchmark tests.
Also Read: RX 6600 XT Vs RTX 3060
Hitman 3
- Based on my thorough testing, the Nvidia RTX 3060’s performance added 28 FPS over GTX 1660 Ti, or about 21% good performance during Hitman 3.
- The average frame rate of GTX 1660 Ti was 132 FPS compared to the 160 FPS average of RTX 3060.
- In terms of temperatures, my observations indicated that the RTX has increased to 63°C in Hitman 3, while the temperature of GTX 1660 Ti has only increased to 66°C.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
- The Nvidia RTX 3060 dominates the FPS battle of RTX 3060 vs. GTX 1660 Ti in The Witcher 3, with 28% greater performance.
- The RTX 3060 turned over 87 FPS, while the GTX 1660 Ti could only make up an average of 68 FPS.
- During gameplay, the RTX 3060 and GTX 1660 Ti had respective temperatures of 61°C and 65°C.
Also Read: AMD RX 6700 XT Vs Nvidia RTX 3060
Overall Gaming Performance
- In my experience, the Nvidia RTX 3060 impressively outperforms the GTX 1660 Ti at 1080p resolution, with an average maximum frame rate of 106.1 FPS, which is 22.5% higher than the GTX 1660 Ti’s 84.8 FPS.
- Overall, when it comes to average frame rates, the RTX 3060 maintains a significant lead, surpassing the GTX 1660 Ti easily.
Also Read: RX 5700 XT Vs RTX 3060
Average Thermal Statistics
- The endurance of a graphics card is significantly influenced by the temperature it experiences during my gaming.
- My calculations revealed that the RTX 3060 maintained an average temperature of 61°C, while the GTX 1660 Ti reached an average temperature of 64.3°C.
- With a temperature advantage of 3.2°C, the RTX 3060 showcased a 4.3% higher thermal efficiency compared to the GTX 1660 Ti.
Also Check: RTX 3060 Vs RTX 3070
Price And Availability
- As of my latest information, the RTX 3060 can be found for about 280 USD through platforms like Newegg.
- Meanwhile, the GTX 1660 Ti is also available on Newegg, carrying a price tag of 225 USD.
- This price distinction amounts to a substantial 21.7% variation between these two graphics cards, which could significantly influence your purchasing decision.
Also Read: RTX 2070 Super Vs RTX 3060
GTX 1660 Ti Vs RTX 3060: Which One Would I Recommend?
- Based on my firsthand experience, I strongly recommend the Nvidia RTX 3060 over the GTX 1660 Ti for gaming at 1080p. The RTX 3060 offers an impressive 22.5% higher maximum frame rate, reaching 106.1 FPS compared to the GTX 1660 Ti’s 84.8 FPS.
- The RTX 3060 maintains a 3.2°C temperature advantage, providing a 4.3% higher thermal efficiency than the GTX 1660 Ti. This ensures better endurance and longevity for your graphics card.
- Considering the substantial 21.7% price difference, your purchasing decision is significantly impacted. The RTX 3060 provides excellent performance and value, making it my top recommendation in this comparison.
Pros And Cons
| GPU | Pros | Cons |
| GeForce GTX 1660 Ti |
|
|
| GeForce RTX 3060 |
|
|
The Ampere architecture of RTX 3060 is sophisticated and much improved compared to the Turing architecture of GTX 1660 Ti. The Nvidia GTX 1660 Ti has no Ray Tracing or Tensor cores. While the RTX 3060 has 28 RT cores and 112 Tensor cores. The GTX 1660 Ti does not support Nvidia DLSS. Based on the specifications and overall performance, the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 offers greater value for money.Common Questions Answered
Related Articles:
Thank you! Please share your positive feedback. 🔋
How could we improve this post? Please Help us. 😔
[Comparisons Expert]
Abdemanaf is a skilled creative writer who has been honing his craft since 2011. While initially working in different fields, he found a passion for technology and has been exploring the tech world since early 2015. Over the years, he has developed an in-depth knowledge of the latest tech trends and product offerings by various companies.
Abdemanaf’s writing reflects his analytical mindset and ability to think critically. He has a knack for breaking down complex technical information into easily digestible pieces, making his articles engaging and accessible to readers from all backgrounds. In February 2022, he joined Tech4Gamers as a blog and product comparison writer, where he has been able to hone his skills further.
As a writer, Abdemanaf is dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and trends, enabling him to provide readers with the most relevant and accurate information. He is always eager to learn more and is constantly seeking new challenges to improve his skills.
Get In Touch: manaf@tech4gamers.com
