The GTX 950 and GTX 1660 Ti are both compelling graphics cards, each catering to different segments of the market. Both have left their marks in the gaming world, but how do they fare against each other? Let's delve into a comprehensive comparison, exploring their technical aspects, performance, and more.
launched in 2015, the GTX 950 was a entry-level powerhouse, offering impressive performance for its class. On the other hand, the GTX 1660 Ti, introduced in 2019, is a Schritt up, targeting budget-conscious mid-range gamers. Both cards have their strengths, but which one should you choose? Let's find out.
Architectural Differences
The GTX 950 is built on Nvidia's Maxwell architecture, while the GTX 1660 Ti is based on the more recent Turing architecture. This architectural leap brings significant improvements in terms of performance per watt and gaming prowess.
While the GTX 950 uses GDDR5 memory, the GTX 1660 Ti uses faster GDDR6, which contributes to its superior performance in modern games.
CUDA Cores and Memory
Under the hood, the GTX 1660 Ti boasts 1536 CUDA cores compared to the 768 CUDA cores in the GTX 950. This substantial increase in core count results in significantly higher gaming performance in the GTX 1660 Ti.
Additionally, the GTX 1660 Ti's 6GB of GDDR6 memory, clocked at 12 Gbps, far outpaces the GTX 950's 2GB of GDDR5 memory, providing more headroom for higher- detail textures and demanding games.
Performance and Power Consumption
The GTX 1660 Ti's superior architecture and specs translate to significantly better gaming performance. It consistently outperforms the GTX 950 in benchmarks, delivering higher frame rates in both esports titles and graphically demanding games.
Despite its increased performance, the GTX 1660 Ti maintains a modest power consumption of around 120W, compared to the GTX 950's 90W. This efficiency ensures that the GTX 1660 Ti doesn't break the bank in terms of energy costs or thermal management.
Feature Set and API Support
Being newer, the GTX 1660 Ti comes with more modern connectivity options, such as DisplayPort 1.4 and USB Type-C (VirtualLink). It also supports newer APIs like Vulkan 1.2 and DirectX 12, ensuring better performance and compatibility with modern games.
In contrast, the GTX 950 sticks to older connectivity standards and API support, including DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 2.0, and DirectX 11 / OpenGL 4.5. While it may not be a deal-breaker for older systems, it's something to consider when looking to future-proof your gaming rig.
Cooling and Design
Both cards feature dual-fan cooling solutions, with the GTX 1660 Ti typically offering better thermals and quieter operation under load. The GTX 1660 Ti's improved cooling performance allows for higher boost clocks, further enhancing its gaming performance.
In terms of design, both cards sport similar aesthetic appeal, with the GTX 1660 Ti offering a more streamlined and refined look compared to the GTX 950. However, the more important factor is their cooling performance and compatibility with your case.
Price and Value
At launch, the GTX 1660 Ti offered significantly better value than the GTX 950, providing a substantial performance boost for a modest price increase. However, pricing can fluctuate over time, and it's essential to check current market prices when making a decision.
Moreover, consider the long-term value. The GTX 1660 Ti's superior performance and modern features ensure better compatibility and gaming experience with newer titles, making it a more future-proof investment.
So, which card should you choose? If you're looking for a solid entry-level or older system upgrade, the GTX 950 still delivers impressive performance for its class. However, if you're building a new gaming setup, the GTX 1660 Ti's superior performance, better future-proofing, and modern features make it the clear choice. Consider your budget and specific gaming needs before making a decision, and happy gaming!