When it comes to gaming graphics cards, two models that often catch the eye are the RX 460 and the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti. Both offer great value for money, but which one is the better choice? Let's dive into a detailed comparison of the RX 460 vs 1660 Ti to help you make an informed decision.
The RX 460 and GTX 1660 Ti cater to different market segments, with the former targeting budget-conscious gamers and the latter appealing to those seeking a balance between performance and price. But what exactly sets these two apart? Let's explore their key features and performance in the following sections.
Performance and Specifications
The RX 460 and GTX 1660 Ti differ significantly in terms of performance and specifications, reflecting their different target audiences and price points. Here's a closer look at their key specs:
| GPU | Stream Processors | Boost Clock (GHz) | Memory (GB) | Memory Bus (bit) | TDP (W) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RX 460 | 896 | 1.22 | 2 | 128 | 75 |
| GTX 1660 Ti | 1536 | 1.77 | 6 | 192 | 120 |
As you can see, the GTX 1660 Ti boasts significantly higher specs, with nearly double the stream processors, a higher boost clock, and more memory. This results in superior performance, especially in demanding games.
However, the RX 460 makes up for its lower specs with better power efficiency, thanks to its AMD Polaris architecture and lower TDP. This makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers and those looking to build a low-power system.
Gaming Performance
The GTX 1660 Ti outperforms the RX 460 in gaming benchmarks across various titles. Here are some average frame rates (FPS) from popular games:
- RX 460:FW144 (2364x1440) - 47 FPS, CS:GO (1920x1080) - 95 FPS
- GTX 1660 Ti:FW144 (2364x1440) - 69 FPS, CS:GO (1920x1080) - 115 FPS
The GTX 1660 Ti offers a significant performance boost, especially in higher resolutions. However, the RX 460 still provides playable frame rates in many titles, making it a versatile choice for budget gamers.
Power Consumption and Thermals
In terms of power consumption and thermals, the RX 460 has a clear advantage. Its lower TDP means it draws less power and generates less heat, allowing it to run cooler and quieter at lower power consumption. This makes it an excellent choice for small form factor PCs and low-power systems.
On the other hand, the GTX 1660 Ti's higher power consumption may require a more robust power supply and cooling solution. However, it's still relatively power-efficient for its performance level.
Value and Pricing
The RX 460 and GTX 1660 Ti cater to different budget segments, with the former offering excellent value for money in the entry-level segment and the latter providing a balance between performance and price in the mid-range segment.
RX 460 vs GTX 1660 Ti - Price-to-Performance Ratio
In terms of price-to-performance ratio, the RX 460 offers better value at its lower price point. While it may not deliver the same level of performance as the GTX 1660 Ti, it provides sufficient gaming performance for its price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers.
Long-term Investment
When considering long-term investments, theGTX 1660 Ti's superior performance and higher future-proofing potential make it a better choice. Its higher specs and better performance in demanding games make it a more versatile option for both current and future gaming demands.
However, both GPUs offer exceptional value for their respective price points, and the best choice ultimately depends on your budget, gaming preferences, and specific system requirements. Whether you're looking to build a high-performance gaming rig or a low-power, budget-friendly system, both the RX 460 and GTX 1660 Ti have their unique advantages and are well worth considering.