The MSI GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER Gaming X is a popular choice for budget-conscious gamers who don’t want to compromise on performance. But with only 2GB of VRAM, is it still a viable option in today’s gaming landscape? This article will delve into the specifications, performance, and potential drawbacks of this card to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Unpacking the MSI GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER Gaming X
The MSI GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER Gaming X boasts impressive features for its price point. Powered by NVIDIA’s Turing architecture, it delivers a significant performance boost over its predecessor, the GTX 1660. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this card tick:
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER
- VRAM: 2GB GDDR6
- Memory Bus: 192-bit
- Boost Clock: 1830 MHz
- Cooling: Twin Frozr 7 thermal design
- Connectivity: DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0b
Performance: Can 2GB VRAM Keep Up?
The GTX 1660 SUPER is no slouch when it comes to performance. It can handle most modern games at 1080p resolution with smooth frame rates, even on high settings. However, the 2GB VRAM can be a limiting factor in some newer, more demanding titles. Games with large textures and high-resolution assets might struggle to fit everything into the limited VRAM, resulting in stuttering and performance drops.
Here’s a quick look at how the GTX 1660 SUPER 2GB performs in popular games at 1080p:
- Fortnite: 60-70 FPS (High settings)
- Apex Legends: 50-60 FPS (Medium settings)
- Call of Duty: Warzone: 40-50 FPS (Low settings)
- Red Dead Redemption 2: 30-40 FPS (Low settings)
As you can see, the card performs admirably in less demanding games, but you’ll need to lower graphical settings in AAA titles to maintain playable frame rates.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the GTX 1660 SUPER 2GB?
The GTX 1660 SUPER 2GB occupies an interesting space in the market. It’s a compelling option for gamers on a tight budget, but it’s essential to be aware of its limitations.
Here’s a quick rundown:
You should consider the GTX 1660 SUPER 2GB if:
- You’re on a strict budget and need the most performance per dollar.
- You primarily play esports titles or less demanding games.
- You’re comfortable playing at 1080p resolution with medium to low settings.
You should probably look elsewhere if:
- You want to play the latest AAA games at high settings.
- You prioritize future-proofing and want your card to last several years.
- You’re willing to spend a bit more for a significant performance boost.
Alternatives to the GTX 1660 SUPER 2GB
If the GTX 1660 SUPER 2GB doesn’t quite meet your needs, several alternatives offer a better balance between price and performance:
- GTX 1650 SUPER: A more affordable option, but with lower performance.
- GTX 1660 SUPER 6GB: Offers a significant VRAM upgrade for a slightly higher price.
- RX 570/580: AMD’s offerings in this price range, offering competitive performance.
Conclusion: A Solid Budget Card, With Caveats
The MSI GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER Gaming X is a capable graphics card that delivers excellent performance for its price. However, its limited 2GB VRAM might hold it back in the near future, especially as games become more demanding. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize 1080p gaming at medium settings, it’s a solid choice. But if you can stretch your budget a little further, opting for a card with more VRAM will provide a smoother and more future-proof gaming experience.