When it comes to gaming or graphic-intensive tasks, the choice of a graphics card can make all the difference. As technology continues to evolve, older models, such as the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660, come under scrutiny for their performance and value. This article will break down whether the 660 still holds its ground in today’s market and what potential buyers should consider.
Understanding the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 was released in 2012, marketed as a mid-range graphics card that catered to gamers eager to experience modern games without breaking the bank. With its Kepler architecture, the GTX 660 provided a solid mix of performance and efficiency when it hit the shelves.
Key Specifications
To gauge whether the GTX 660 is still viable, let’s first examine its key specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| GPU Architecture | Kepler |
| CUDA Cores | 960 |
| Base Clock Speed | 980 MHz |
| Memory | 2GB / 3GB GDDR5 |
| Memory Interface Width | 192-bit |
| DirectX Support | DirectX 11 |
| Recommended PSU | 450 watts |
These specifications illustrate that while the GTX 660 was a powerhouse in its time, it becomes vital to analyze how it stacks up against newer models.
Performance Breakdown
Evaluating the performance of the GTX 660 necessitates understanding where it shines and where it falters.
Gaming Capabilities
When assessing gaming performance, it’s essential to consider the resolution and game settings:
At 1080p Resolution
For many gamers, 1080p is the standard resolution. Light to medium settings in most popular titles like “League of Legends,” “World of Warcraft,” or even slightly older titles such as “Battlefield 3” can yield playable frame rates, often hovering around 30-60 FPS. However, for demanding games like “Cyberpunk 2077” or “Shadow of the Tomb Raider,” users may find themselves significantly lowering settings to achieve satisfactory frame performance.
Newer Titles and Performance Limitations
While the GTX 660 can run many games, it struggles with newer titles due to factors like technological advancements in graphics rendering and optimization. Many games utilize DirectX 12, which the GTX 660 does not support directly, leading to potential compatibility issues.
Productivity and Creative Work
Beyond gaming, the GTX 660 can be useful for productivity tasks like basic photo editing and video playback. However, when it comes to video editing, 3D rendering, or jobs involving heavy multitasking, users may experience performance bottlenecks, prompting the need for a more robust GPU.
Comparing the GTX 660 with Its Successors
To place the GTX 660’s capabilities in context, it’s helpful to compare it against its successors:
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 750 Ti
Launched a couple of years after the GTX 660, the GTX 750 Ti brought improvements in efficiency, performance, and support for newer features. It boasts better power consumption and performance in games, making it a more attractive option for budget-conscious gamers.
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti
The GTX 1050 Ti is another significant upgrade over the GTX 660. It offers enhanced performance, supports DirectX 12, and provides a substantial increase in power efficiency. Gamers playing at 1080p will find a much more satisfying experience with the GTX 1050 Ti, especially in newer games.
Key Factors to Consider Before Buying a GTX 660
While the GTX 660 may still have some charm for budget gamers, potential buyers should carefully consider the following factors:
Availability and Price
Given that the GTX 660 is an older model, finding new stock can be challenging, leading to inflated prices in secondary markets. Comparatively, newer GPUs might provide better performance for a slightly higher price but result in a more balanced investment in the long run.
Use Case
Understanding your use case is crucial. If your gaming needs focus solely on light titles or you’re looking for an inexpensive solution for non-demanding tasks, the GTX 660 can still be sufficient. Alternatively, for serious gaming or creative tasks, consider investing in a more modern model.
What to Look for in a Graphics Card Today
When evaluating a graphics card, consider the following elements to ensure you make a sound investment:
Performance per Dollar
Investing $150 into a newer model like the GTX 1650 or RX 5500 could yield much higher performance than purchasing an older card for the same price. Evaluate the performance benchmarks before making a decision.
Future-Proofing
Investing in a more modern GPU guarantees better compatibility with upcoming games and software advancements. A future-proof option might save you money and frustration down the line.
Conclusion: Is the GTX 660 a Good Choice?
In summary, the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 can be considered a decent GPU for specific use cases, particularly if you aim to play less graphically demanding games or use it for basic tasks. However, for most gaming enthusiasts and professionals, this card falls short when compared to newer models.
If budget constraints lead you towards the GTX 660, ensure it aligns with your gaming style and expectations. Otherwise, investing in a more modern graphics card is likely a more future-proof and satisfying decision.
In the competitive world of technology, staying informed and adaptable in your choices is vital for getting the best value for your investment.
What is the performance level of the 660 graphics card?
The 660 graphics card, particularly the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660, is generally considered a mid-range option from its generation. Released in 2012, it was designed to deliver solid performance in 1080p gaming, allowing users to run many titles at high settings. However, its performance is limited in comparison to more contemporary graphics cards, which may support higher resolutions and advanced rendering techniques.
While it performs well for older games and less demanding titles, you may experience difficulties running newer AAA games on high settings. In many cases, you may need to adjust the settings to medium or low to maintain a smooth frame rate. Overall, the GTX 660 still holds some value for casual gamers and those who play less graphically intensive titles.
Can the 660 handle modern gaming titles?
The GTX 660 can handle some modern gaming titles, but with certain limitations. Many newer games demand more graphical power and advanced features, which the GTX 660 may struggle to support. At 1080p resolution, you may be able to play some popular titles, though you might need to lower the graphics settings to achieve acceptable frame rates.
For serious gamers who prefer to stay updated with the latest releases, the GTX 660 may not be a suitable choice. Instead, those interested in experiencing modern graphics and gameplay enhancements should consider upgrading to a more recent graphics card that can handle contemporary gaming demands without compromising performance.
How does the 660 compare to other graphics cards in its class?
When compared to other graphics cards in its class from the same era, the GTX 660 generally stands out for offering a good balance of performance and affordability. However, benchmarks show that it is outperformed by newer models, even those released just a few years later like the GTX 750 Ti or AMD’s R7 260X. These successors provide improved performance, better power efficiency, and enhanced support for modern gaming technologies.
In today’s market, the GTX 660 is positioned as a budget option for those looking to play older or less demanding games. While it holds up well against other cards from its generation, its capabilities fall short compared to modern GPUs that are built to support today’s gaming experiences and graphical standards.
Is the 660 a suitable choice for esports gaming?
The GTX 660 can be a suitable choice for esports gaming, especially for titles that are less graphically demanding, such as “League of Legends,” “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive,” or “Dota 2.” These games are designed to run on a wide variety of hardware, allowing the GTX 660 to provide a playable experience. Many esports titles prioritize frame rates over graphical fidelity, which means the GTX 660 can perform adequately in these scenarios.
However, for competitive gaming, players often seek higher frame rates and smoother performance, especially at lower settings. In this case, the GTX 660 may not be the ideal choice, and upgrading to a newer model could significantly enhance responsiveness and provide a more competitive edge in fast-paced environments.
What are the system requirements for the GTX 660?
The GTX 660 has relatively modest system requirements compared to newer graphics cards. It typically requires a PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot on your motherboard, along with a minimum of 2 GB of VRAM for proper function. The card can run effectively on a system with a dual-core processor and at least 4 GB of system RAM, but a more capable CPU is recommended to avoid bottlenecks in performance.
Additionally, you’ll need a power supply unit (PSU) that can deliver sufficient power, usually around 450 watts or more, depending on your overall system configuration. Ensuring that your computer has adequate cooling and airflow is also important, as older graphics cards can generate significant heat during operation.
How much does a GTX 660 cost in the current market?
As of now, the GTX 660 is generally available at a low cost due to its age and position in the market as a budget graphics card. Prices can range from approximately $50 to $100 depending on factors such as the card’s condition, whether it comes with original packaging, or if it has been overclocked. As newer graphics cards dominate the market, GTX 660 finds itself in a niche for bargain seekers or those looking to build a budget gaming rig.
Keep in mind that while the GTX 660 may be cost-effective, investing in a slightly more powerful graphics card can often yield better long-term value and performance, especially if you intend to play more demanding games or require support for modern gaming technologies.
Should I consider upgrading from a GTX 660?
Upgrading from a GTX 660 is advisable, especially if you find yourself struggling to run newer games or wanting to experience better performance in gaming. While the 660 is capable of handling older titles and less demanding games, many modern games require more power, and newer graphics cards offer significant performance improvements, higher resolutions, and advanced graphical features.
If gaming is a priority and you wish to stay competitive or enjoy the latest titles in their fullest graphical glory, investing in a newer graphics card will provide a better experience. Upgrading can also future-proof your gaming setup and support new technologies, ensuring smoother performance in the years to come.