In the competitive landscape of graphics cards, the showdown between the GTX 980 and the 1660 has captured the attention of tech enthusiasts and gamers alike. As both models offer top-notch performance and sophisticated features, the battle for supremacy is nothing short of thrilling. With cutting-edge technologies and powerful specifications, determining the ultimate winner in this clash of titans is a challenge worth exploring.
Whether you are a gaming aficionado seeking unparalleled visuals or a professional designer requiring exceptional graphics capabilities, the GTX 980 and 1660 represent two formidable options. Join us as we delve into the intricate details of these graphics cards to uncover which one reigns supreme in this gripping ultimate graphics showdown.
Performance Comparison: Benchmarks And Frame Rates
In the much-anticipated showdown between the NVIDIA GTX 980 and GTX 1660 graphics cards, performance is the ultimate decider. Benchmarks and frame rates play a crucial role in determining which card comes out on top in various gaming scenarios.
When comparing the two cards head-to-head in benchmark tests, the GTX 980 often showcases superior performance in terms of raw power and graphical capabilities. However, the GTX 1660 does not fall far behind, offering impressive frame rates and smooth gameplay experiences across a wide range of modern titles.
Gamers looking for top-tier performance may lean towards the GTX 980 for its raw power and ability to handle graphics-intensive games with ease. On the other hand, the GTX 1660 presents a compelling option for budget-conscious gamers who still seek excellent performance without breaking the bank. Ultimately, the performance comparison between these two graphics cards reveals a nuanced decision-making process based on individual gaming needs and preferences.
Price-To-Performance Ratio
When comparing the GTX 980 and 1660 graphics cards in terms of price-to-performance ratio, it is essential to consider the balance between cost and output. The GTX 980, being an older generation card, may come at a lower price point in the secondhand market, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers looking for decent performance. However, the 1660 offers a more optimized architecture and newer technologies, delivering better efficiency and performance for the price.
In terms of raw performance, the 1660 generally outperforms the GTX 980 in modern games due to its updated features and architecture. This makes the 1660 a more future-proof investment for gamers looking to run the latest titles smoothly at decent settings. While the GTX 980 can still hold its own in some games, the overall value proposition of the 1660 with its higher performance and competitive pricing makes it a more appealing choice for most users seeking a balance between cost and performance in their graphics card purchase.
Technology And Features
When comparing the GTX 980 and the 1660 in terms of technology and features, it is essential to note that both graphics cards belong to different generations. The GTX 980, released in 2014, features NVIDIA’s Maxwell architecture and boasts 4GB of GDDR5 memory. On the other hand, the 1660, launched in 2019, is based on the Turing architecture and offers 6GB of GDDR5 memory. The newer Turing architecture brings improvements in performance and energy efficiency compared to the older Maxwell architecture.
In terms of features, the GTX 980 supports technologies such as NVIDIA G-SYNC for smoother gaming experiences and NVIDIA GameStream for streaming games to other devices. The 1660, on the other hand, introduces newer features like NVIDIA Adaptive Shading for improved rendering efficiency and support for real-time ray tracing in compatible games. These advanced features in the 1660 make it a more future-proof option for gamers looking to experience the latest technologies in gaming graphics.
Overclocking Capabilities
When it comes to comparing the overclocking capabilities of the GTX 980 and the 1660, both graphics cards offer impressive potential for boosting performance beyond their stock settings. The GTX 980, known for its robust architecture, has shown to handle overclocking quite well. With its Maxwell architecture, users have reported stable overclocks that can push the card’s performance to new heights. This means gamers looking to squeeze out extra frames per second or enhance overall gaming experience can benefit from the GTX 980’s overclocking capabilities.
On the other hand, the GTX 1660, built on the Turing architecture, also showcases solid overclocking potential. While it may not reach the same heights as the GTX 980 in terms of raw power, the 1660 is still a reliable option for users seeking to optimize their gaming performance. With proper cooling and tweaking, the GTX 1660 can deliver significant performance gains through overclocking, making it a good choice for budget-conscious gamers looking to maximize their gaming rig’s potential without breaking the bank. Ultimately, both the GTX 980 and the 1660 offer gamers the opportunity to push their hardware to its limits through overclocking, providing a customizable experience tailored to individual preferences and needs.
Power Consumption And Efficiency
When it comes to power consumption and efficiency, the GTX 980 and 1660 exhibit notable differences. The GTX 980, being an older generation card, tends to be more power-hungry compared to the 1660. The GTX 980 typically draws around 165-180 watts under load, which can lead to higher electricity bills and increased heat output, necessitating better cooling solutions.
On the other hand, the GTX 1660 is more power-efficient, consuming around 120-130 watts under load. This lower power consumption not only translates to cost savings in the long run but also results in reduced heat generation, contributing to a cooler and quieter gaming setup. Additionally, the 1660’s improved efficiency allows for better compatibility with a wider range of power supplies, making it a more versatile choice for users with varying system configurations.
In conclusion, when considering power consumption and efficiency, the GTX 1660 emerges as the winner in the showdown between these two graphics cards. Its lower power requirements make it a more sustainable option for users looking to optimize their gaming experience while keeping energy costs in check.
Cooling Solutions: Thermals And Noise Levels
When comparing the cooling solutions of the GTX 980 and the 1660, it’s essential to consider both thermals and noise levels. The GTX 980, being an older graphics card, tends to run hotter under load compared to newer models like the 1660. The thermal performance of the GTX 980 may be subpar when running demanding games or applications for extended periods.
On the other hand, the 1660 typically boasts improved thermal management, thanks to advancements in cooling technology. This results in more efficient heat dissipation and lower operating temperatures during heavy use, contributing to better overall performance and longevity. Additionally, the 1660 is designed to operate with lower noise levels, providing a quieter and more pleasant gaming experience compared to the potentially louder GTX 980.
In conclusion, when considering cooling solutions, the 1660 outshines the GTX 980 with its superior thermal performance and reduced noise output. Gamers and power users who prioritize a cool and quiet system may find the 1660 to be the more favorable option between these two graphics cards.
Gaming Experience And Compatibility
When it comes to gaming experience and compatibility, both the GTX 980 and the GTX 1660 offer exceptional performance tailored to the needs of gamers. The GTX 980, being an older card, may struggle with newer, more graphically demanding games at higher settings. However, it still provides a smooth gaming experience for most titles at moderate settings. On the other hand, the GTX 1660 is better equipped to handle modern games at higher resolutions and settings, thanks to its newer architecture and improved technology.
In terms of compatibility, both the GTX 980 and the GTX 1660 are widely supported by game developers and drivers. They work seamlessly with most popular gaming titles and are compatible with various gaming platforms. Additionally, both cards are VR-ready, allowing users to experience virtual reality gaming without any compatibility issues. Overall, when it comes to gaming experience and compatibility, the GTX 1660 edges out the GTX 980 with its improved performance and enhanced support for modern gaming technologies.
Future-Proofing And Longevity
When considering future-proofing and longevity between the GTX 980 and the GTX 1660, it is essential to weigh multiple factors. The GTX 1660, being the newer generation card, offers better support for the latest technologies and features compared to the aging GTX 980. This means that the GTX 1660 is more likely to remain relevant and capable of handling newer games and software updates in the coming years.
In terms of longevity, the GTX 1660 generally comes with better driver support and optimization from Nvidia, ensuring that it will continue to receive updates and improvements for a longer period compared to the older GTX 980. Additionally, the GTX 1660’s architecture and performance efficiency suggest that it will have a longer lifespan before becoming outdated or struggling to keep up with modern gaming demands.
Ultimately, if long-term performance and future-proofing are important factors for you, the GTX 1660 emerges as the more reliable choice between these two graphics cards. While the GTX 980 may still be capable for now, investing in the newer GTX 1660 ensures a more stable and sustainable gaming experience in the years ahead.
FAQs
What Are The Key Differences Between The Gtx 980 And The Gtx 1660?
The GTX 980 is an older generation GPU released in 2014, while the GTX 1660 is a newer model from the 16 series released in 2019. The GTX 1660 offers better performance and efficiency compared to the GTX 980 due to architectural advancements and higher clock speeds. Additionally, the GTX 1660 is more budget-friendly and supports newer technologies like GDDR5 memory, making it a more attractive option for modern gaming and productivity needs.
Which Graphics Card Is Better For Gaming Performance, The Gtx 980 Or The Gtx 1660?
The GTX 1660 generally offers better gaming performance compared to the GTX 980. Despite being a newer release, the GTX 1660 provides improved power efficiency and performance thanks to its Turing architecture and higher clock speeds. It also offers support for newer technologies and features that enhance gaming experiences. Overall, if you’re looking for a better gaming experience with smoother frame rates and higher graphic settings, the GTX 1660 is the superior choice over the older GTX 980.
How Do The Power Consumption And Efficiency Of The Gtx 980 And Gtx 1660 Compare?
The GTX 980 has a higher power consumption compared to the GTX 1660. The GTX 1660 is more power-efficient, offering better performance per watt than the older GTX 980. This means that the GTX 1660 consumes less power while delivering comparable or even better performance than the GTX 980, making it a more energy-efficient option for gaming and other graphics-intensive tasks.
Are There Significant Price Differences Between The Gtx 980 And The Gtx 1660?
Yes, there are significant price differences between the GTX 980 and the GTX 1660. The GTX 980, being an older generation graphics card, is typically priced lower than the newer GTX 1660. The GTX 1660 is a mid-range card released after the GTX 980, offering better performance and efficiency, which often results in a higher price tag compared to the older model.
How Do The Technical Specifications Of The Gtx 980 And Gtx 1660 Stack Up Against Each Other?
The GTX 980 has 2048 CUDA cores, 4GB of GDDR5 memory, and a memory bandwidth of 224 GB/s. In comparison, the GTX 1660 features 1408 CUDA cores, 6GB of GDDR5 memory, and a memory bandwidth of 192 GB/s. While the GTX 980 has more CUDA cores and higher memory bandwidth, the GTX 1660 offers newer architecture and more memory capacity, making it a more power-efficient and capable option for modern gaming needs.
Final Words
After dissecting the performance, features, and price points of the GTX 980 and the 1660, it is evident that both GPUs have their strengths and weaknesses. The GTX 980, with its higher price tag and slightly superior performance in some benchmarks, appeals to hardcore gamers and enthusiasts looking for top-tier performance. On the other hand, the 1660 offers a more budget-friendly option for casual gamers or those looking for a balance between performance and price. Ultimately, the choice between these two graphics cards boils down to individual preferences, budget constraints, and specific gaming needs. Whichever GPU you choose from the GTX 980 and 1660, you can rest assured that both deliver impressive performance and value for your gaming experience.