Choosing Between Nvidia GTX 1050 Ti and GTX 1060 6GB: A Comprehensive Guide
Nvidia regularly releases new graphics cards, categorizing them into specific performance levels. The xx60 to xx80 series targets hardcore gamers, while the xx50/xx50ti is aimed at casual gamers and general PC users. Based on this, it's generally accepted that the 1060 is better than the 1050 when it comes to performance.
Performance Calculation
A way to determine which graphics card is superior is through a simple calculation: cores x 2 x clock speed.
Nvidia GTX 1050 Ti
The GTX 1050 Ti has 768 cores and a boost clock of 1392 MHz. The performance calculation is as follows:
768 cores x 2 x 1392 MHz 2,138,112 This translates to approximately 2.138 teraflops.Nvidia GTX 1060 6GB
The GTX 1060 6GB, on the other hand, boasts 1280 cores and a boost clock of 1708 MHz. The performance calculation is as follows:
1280 cores x 2 x 1708 MHz 4,372,480 This translates to approximately 4.372 teraflops.From these calculations, it is reasonable to assume that the 1060 6GB is roughly twice as powerful as the GTX 1050 Ti, in terms of performance.
When to Choose Each GPU
If you need a half-height video card or if you absolutely require a graphics card that consumes only 75W, the GTX 1050 Ti is your best option by default. For those who prioritize performance, the 1060 6GB has 50 more VRAM and 66 more cores, making it a more powerful choice.
Nvidia GTX 1060 Mobile vs. Desktop 1050 Ti
The 1060 mobile version is faster. Despite being slower than the desktop 1060, it still outperforms the desktop 1050 Ti. This comparison highlights the importance of considering the form factor and power consumption when choosing a GPU.
Future-Proofing Your Choice
If you're in the market for a new graphics card, the Nvidia GTX 1060 6GB is a more future-proof option compared to the 1050 Ti. The 1050 Ti is a lower bracket model, which means it may not offer the same level of performance in the long run.
Nvidia has recently released a refreshed version of the GTX 1060 6GB that features GDDR5X memory. This new model competes directly with the RX590. Depending on the specific game being played, the newer GTX 1060 with GDDR5X memory can either compete neck-to-neck with the RX590 or even slightly outperform it. Older games that favor Nvidia's "pipeline" GPU design will perform better with the GTX 1060, while newer games that support DX12 and Async computing will favor the RX590 a bit more.
Ultimately, the final choice should be based on the local price of the specific model you aim for. For optimal performance and cooling, it's recommended to choose a brand that offers aftermarket cooling solutions, such as Asus Strix or Gigabyte Aorus. The 1050 Ti, while still a good option, is not a future-proof product; it is more suitable as an entry-level GPU.