GTX 1080 Ti vs. GTX 1660 Super: Which GPU Is Better for 1080p Gaming?

When it comes to choosing a graphics card for 1080p gaming, two models often come up: the GTX 1080 Ti and the GTX 1660 Super. Both GPUs have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them can depend on your specific needs and preferences. In this article, we’ll explore the performance of these GPUs, the future of graphic technology, and other factors to consider before making your decision.

Performance Benchmarking: GTX 1080 Ti vs. GTX 1660 Super

In most games, the GTX 1080 Ti outperforms the GTX 1660 Super by about 2x. This impressive performance gap is particularly noticeable when playing older games. However, with the advent of next-generation features like Mesh Shading, which optimizes the shading process of polygons by only rendering visible ones, the performance dynamics shift. Mesh Shading is a feature that drastically speeds up the rendering process by minimizing unnecessary computations.

Consider the case of Alan Wake 2. At 1080p with the lowest settings, the GTX 1080 Ti manages a frame rate of 24 fps, while the GTX 1660 Super delivers a much smoother 42 fps. This comparison highlights that in future games, the GTX 1660 Super will likely outperform the GTX 1080 Ti despite possessing only 50% of the raw compute power. This suggests that the GTX 1660 Super is better equipped to handle future graphic advancements.

Price to Performance Ratio

One of the key factors in deciding between these two GPUs is the price-to-performance ratio. The GTX 1080 Ti is significantly more powerful, capable of delivering much higher frame rates in 1080p. However, its higher price point means that this performance upgrade may not offer as much added value in 1080p gaming compared to the GTX 1660 Super. For frequent high-refresh rate players, the extra fps beyond 60 won't do much unless you have a monitor that can display such high frame rates.

While both GPUs are outdated, the GTX 1080 Ti shines when used at 1080p. Conversely, the GTX 1660 Super provides better value for money, especially if you are looking to stick with 1080p resolutions. If you are planning to upgrade to a higher resolution or plan to eventually aim for high refresh rates, the GTX 1080 Ti might be challenging to keep up with in the long term.

Next-Generation Technologies

It's important to note that the GPU landscape is in a constant evolution. NVIDIA has moved on from the GTX series to the RTX series, which now supports advanced technologies like Ray Tracing, DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling), and DLDSR (Deep Learning Downscaling). These features offer significant improvements in visual quality and performance, especially in 1080p and 1440p gaming.

For a more future-proof solution, it's recommended to opt for an RTX 2060, which can handle many games at 1080p and 1440p without breaking the bank. The RTX series also supports 4K gaming with impressive performance at around 30 fps, thanks to the advanced technologies included.

Conclusion

While the GTX 1080 Ti is more powerful, the GTX 1660 Super offers better value for money in 1080p gaming, especially if you are not planning to upgrade to a higher resolution or refresh rate. If you plan to stay with 1080p and don't require the latest graphic technologies, the GTX 1660 Super is a solid choice.

If you are interested in the latest graphics advancements, consider an RTX 2060 instead. This GPU offers excellent performance at a reasonable price and future-proofed technologies that are essential for modern gaming.

Keywords: GTX 1080 Ti, GTX 1660 Super, 1080p gaming