The Verdict: RTX 2060 Pulls Ahead in Most Scenarios
When comparing the RTX 2060 vs GTX 1660 SUPER, the RTX 2060 generally offers superior gaming performance across resolutions. For example, in Counter-Strike 2 at 1080p High, the RTX 2060 hits 180 fps compared to the GTX 1660 SUPER's 158 fps. This trend continues at 1440p and 4K, making the RTX 2060 the more capable card if your budget allows for it.
1080p Performance: Solid for Both, Better for RTX 2060
At 1080p, both cards provide a capable gaming experience, especially in less demanding titles. In Counter-Strike 2, the RTX 2060 delivers 180 fps, while the GTX 1660 SUPER achieves 158 fps. For demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077, the RTX 2060 manages 47 fps, a respectable lead over the GTX 1660 SUPER's 40 fps. If you primarily game at 1080p, the GTX 1660 SUPER is a strong contender, but the RTX 2060 offers a smoother experience and more headroom.
1440p Gaming: Where the RTX 2060 Starts to Shine
Stepping up to 1440p, the performance gap between the RTX 2060 and GTX 1660 SUPER widens. In Dota 2, the RTX 2060 achieves 122 fps versus the GTX 1660 SUPER's 107 fps. Even in a title like PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS, the RTX 2060 reaches 77 fps, outperforming the GTX 1660 SUPER's 65 fps. For 1440p gaming, the RTX 2060 is the clear winner, offering a more consistent and enjoyable framerate, especially in titles that push hardware harder.
4K Gaming: Neither Card is Ideal, but RTX 2060 is Less Compromised
Pushing pixels at 4K resolution is a significant challenge for both of these cards. In most titles, you'll need to significantly lower settings to achieve playable framerates. For instance, in Grand Theft Auto V, the RTX 2060 manages 52 fps, while the GTX 1660 SUPER hits 44 fps. While neither card is recommended for a true 4K gaming experience, the RTX 2060 provides a slightly better foundation if you absolutely must game at this resolution, though expect compromises.
Ray Tracing and DLSS: An RTX 2060 Advantage
A key differentiator is the RTX 2060's support for dedicated ray tracing cores and DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling). While ray tracing performance on the RTX 2060 is limited, it's a feature entirely absent on the GTX 1660 SUPER. DLSS can provide a significant performance boost in supported games by rendering at a lower resolution and using AI to upscale the image. This makes the RTX 2060 a more future-proof option for games adopting these technologies.
Buying Advice: Choose Based on Resolution and Features
For 1080p gaming, the GTX 1660 SUPER offers excellent value if you can find it at a good price. However, if you plan to game at 1440p or want access to features like DLSS, the RTX 2060 is the better investment. The RTX 2060 provides a tangible performance uplift across the board and a pathway to exploring newer graphical technologies.