The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 is a popular graphics card among gamers and graphics enthusiasts, known for its balance between performance and affordability. However, the GTX 1060 comes in two variants: the 3GB and the 6GB, each with its own set of specifications and capabilities. In this article, we will delve into the details of both variants, comparing their performance, features, and value for money, to help you decide which one is better suited for your needs.
Introduction to GTX 1060 3GB and 6GB
The GTX 1060 3GB and 6GB are based on the same GP106 GPU, which is built on the 16nm FinFET manufacturing process. Both variants have 1280 CUDA cores, 80 texture units, and 48 render outputs. However, the main difference between the two lies in their memory configuration. The 3GB variant has 3GB of GDDR5 memory, with a 192-bit memory bus, while the 6GB variant has 6GB of GDDR5 memory, with a 192-bit memory bus as well. This difference in memory capacity has a significant impact on the performance of the two variants, especially in games and applications that require large amounts of video memory.
Performance Comparison
In terms of performance, the GTX 1060 6GB is generally considered to be the better option. With its larger memory capacity, it can handle more demanding games and applications, especially those that require high-resolution textures and complex graphics. The 6GB variant also tends to perform better in games that use advanced graphics features, such as DirectX 12 and Vulkan. On the other hand, the 3GB variant may struggle with these types of games, especially at higher resolutions and detail settings.
Benchmark Results
To give you a better idea of the performance difference between the two variants, let’s take a look at some benchmark results. In 3DMark Fire Strike, the GTX 1060 6GB scores around 12,000 points, while the 3GB variant scores around 10,000 points. In Unigine Heaven 4.0, the 6GB variant scores around 40 frames per second, while the 3GB variant scores around 30 frames per second. These results indicate that the 6GB variant has a significant performance advantage over the 3GB variant, especially in games and applications that require large amounts of video memory.
Memory and Bandwidth
As mentioned earlier, the main difference between the GTX 1060 3GB and 6GB lies in their memory configuration. The 3GB variant has 3GB of GDDR5 memory, with a 192-bit memory bus, while the 6GB variant has 6GB of GDDR5 memory, with a 192-bit memory bus as well. The larger memory capacity of the 6GB variant gives it a significant advantage in games and applications that require large amounts of video memory. Additionally, the 6GB variant has a higher memory bandwidth, which allows it to transfer data more quickly and efficiently.
Memory Bandwidth Comparison
In terms of memory bandwidth, the GTX 1060 6GB has a bandwidth of 192 GB/s, while the 3GB variant has a bandwidth of 192 GB/s as well. However, the 6GB variant’s larger memory capacity gives it a significant advantage in games and applications that require large amounts of video memory. For example, in games that use high-resolution textures and complex graphics, the 6GB variant’s larger memory capacity allows it to handle these types of games more efficiently, resulting in smoother performance and fewer framerate drops.
Memory Capacity and Performance
The memory capacity of a graphics card has a significant impact on its performance, especially in games and applications that require large amounts of video memory. With its larger memory capacity, the GTX 1060 6GB is better equipped to handle demanding games and applications, especially those that use advanced graphics features. On the other hand, the 3GB variant may struggle with these types of games, especially at higher resolutions and detail settings. Therefore, if you’re looking for a graphics card that can handle demanding games and applications, the GTX 1060 6GB is the better option.
Power Consumption and Temperature
In terms of power consumption, the GTX 1060 3GB and 6GB have a TDP of 120W, which is relatively low compared to other graphics cards in its class. However, the 6GB variant tends to consume slightly more power than the 3GB variant, especially when running demanding games and applications. On the other hand, the 3GB variant tends to run cooler than the 6GB variant, especially when running less demanding games and applications.
Temperature Comparison
In terms of temperature, the GTX 1060 3GB and 6GB have a maximum temperature of around 95°C, which is relatively high compared to other graphics cards in its class. However, the 6GB variant tends to run hotter than the 3GB variant, especially when running demanding games and applications. On the other hand, the 3GB variant tends to run cooler than the 6GB variant, especially when running less demanding games and applications.
Cooling Systems
Both the GTX 1060 3GB and 6GB have a variety of cooling systems available, including air cooling and liquid cooling. Air cooling is the most common type of cooling system, and it uses a heatsink and fan to dissipate heat from the graphics card. Liquid cooling, on the other hand, uses a liquid coolant to dissipate heat from the graphics card, and it is generally more effective than air cooling. Regardless of the cooling system used, it’s essential to ensure that the graphics card is properly cooled to prevent overheating and damage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the GTX 1060 6GB is generally considered to be the better option compared to the 3GB variant. With its larger memory capacity and higher memory bandwidth, it is better equipped to handle demanding games and applications, especially those that use advanced graphics features. However, the 3GB variant is still a good option for those who are on a budget and don’t need the extra memory capacity. Ultimately, the choice between the GTX 1060 3GB and 6GB depends on your specific needs and budget.
| Specification | GTX 1060 3GB | GTX 1060 6GB |
|---|---|---|
| CUDA Cores | 1280 | 1280 |
| Memory Capacity | 3GB GDDR5 | 6GB GDDR5 |
| Memory Bus | 192-bit | 192-bit |
| Memory Bandwidth | 192 GB/s | 192 GB/s |
- The GTX 1060 6GB has a larger memory capacity and higher memory bandwidth, making it better suited for demanding games and applications.
- The GTX 1060 3GB is still a good option for those who are on a budget and don’t need the extra memory capacity.
By considering the specifications, performance, and features of the GTX 1060 3GB and 6GB, you can make an informed decision about which graphics card is best for your needs. Whether you’re a gamer, graphics enthusiast, or just looking for a reliable graphics card, the GTX 1060 6GB is generally the better option. However, the 3GB variant is still a good choice for those who are on a budget and don’t need the extra memory capacity.
What are the key differences between the GTX 1060 3GB and 6GB models?
The main difference between the GTX 1060 3GB and 6GB models lies in their memory capacity and bandwidth. The 3GB version has a lower memory capacity, which can lead to reduced performance in games and applications that require large amounts of video memory. On the other hand, the 6GB version has a higher memory capacity, allowing for smoother performance in demanding games and applications. Additionally, the 6GB version has a higher memory bandwidth, which enables faster data transfer between the GPU and system memory.
In terms of performance, the GTX 1060 6GB generally outperforms the 3GB version, especially in games that require large amounts of video memory. However, the performance difference between the two models may not be significant in less demanding games or applications. It’s also worth noting that the 3GB version may be more power-efficient and have a lower price point, making it a more attractive option for those on a budget. Ultimately, the choice between the GTX 1060 3GB and 6GB models depends on individual needs and preferences, including budget, gaming requirements, and system configuration.
How does the memory capacity affect gaming performance on the GTX 1060 3GB and 6GB?
The memory capacity of a graphics card plays a crucial role in gaming performance, as it determines how much data can be stored and processed by the GPU. In the case of the GTX 1060 3GB and 6GB models, the memory capacity can significantly impact performance in games that require large amounts of video memory. Games with high-resolution textures, complex graphics, and large game worlds may require more video memory, which can lead to reduced performance on the 3GB version. On the other hand, the 6GB version can handle these demands more easily, resulting in smoother performance and higher frame rates.
In general, the GTX 1060 6GB is better suited for gaming at high resolutions (such as 1080p or 1440p) and with high graphics settings. The additional memory capacity and bandwidth enable the GPU to handle more complex graphics and larger game worlds, resulting in a better gaming experience. In contrast, the 3GB version may be more suitable for gaming at lower resolutions (such as 900p or 1080p) and with lower graphics settings. However, the actual performance difference between the two models will depend on the specific game and system configuration, so it’s essential to research and compare performance benchmarks before making a decision.
Can the GTX 1060 3GB handle 1080p gaming with high graphics settings?
The GTX 1060 3GB can handle 1080p gaming with high graphics settings, but its performance may vary depending on the specific game and system configuration. In general, the 3GB version can deliver smooth performance in less demanding games at 1080p, but may struggle with more demanding titles that require large amounts of video memory. Games with high-resolution textures, complex graphics, and large game worlds may require more video memory, which can lead to reduced performance on the 3GB version. However, the 3GB version can still deliver good performance in many games at 1080p, especially with lower graphics settings.
To achieve smooth performance at 1080p with high graphics settings, it’s essential to adjust the graphics settings and optimize the system configuration. This may involve reducing the graphics quality, disabling anti-aliasing, or lowering the resolution. Additionally, ensuring that the system has sufficient CPU power, RAM, and storage can also help to optimize performance. While the GTX 1060 3GB may not be the best option for 1080p gaming with high graphics settings, it can still deliver good performance in many games, especially with some tweaks and optimizations. It’s essential to research and compare performance benchmarks to determine the best graphics settings and system configuration for specific games.
How does the GTX 1060 6GB compare to other mid-range graphics cards?
The GTX 1060 6GB is a popular mid-range graphics card that competes with other models from NVIDIA and AMD. In terms of performance, the GTX 1060 6GB is generally comparable to other mid-range graphics cards, such as the AMD Radeon RX 580. However, the actual performance difference between these models will depend on the specific game and system configuration. The GTX 1060 6GB has a strong performance profile, with high frame rates and smooth performance in many games at 1080p and 1440p. Additionally, the 6GB version has a higher memory capacity and bandwidth, making it well-suited for gaming at high resolutions and with high graphics settings.
In comparison to other mid-range graphics cards, the GTX 1060 6GB offers a good balance of performance and power efficiency. It has a relatively low power consumption, making it suitable for systems with limited power supplies. Additionally, the GTX 1060 6GB has a wide range of features, including support for NVIDIA’s GeForce Experience software, which provides easy access to graphics settings and game optimization. Overall, the GTX 1060 6GB is a strong contender in the mid-range graphics card market, offering good performance, power efficiency, and features. However, the actual performance difference between the GTX 1060 6GB and other mid-range graphics cards will depend on the specific game and system configuration.
Is the GTX 1060 3GB still a viable option for entry-level gaming?
The GTX 1060 3GB is still a viable option for entry-level gaming, especially for those on a budget. While it may not offer the same level of performance as the 6GB version, it can still deliver smooth performance in many games at lower resolutions (such as 900p or 1080p) and with lower graphics settings. The 3GB version is also more power-efficient and has a lower price point, making it an attractive option for those who want a budget-friendly graphics card. Additionally, the GTX 1060 3GB is still a relatively modern graphics card, with support for the latest graphics technologies and features.
However, it’s essential to consider the limitations of the GTX 1060 3GB, especially in terms of memory capacity and bandwidth. Games that require large amounts of video memory may not run smoothly on the 3GB version, and the lower memory bandwidth can limit performance in demanding games. Nevertheless, the GTX 1060 3GB can still deliver good performance in many entry-level games, and its lower price point makes it an attractive option for those on a budget. To get the most out of the GTX 1060 3GB, it’s essential to adjust the graphics settings and optimize the system configuration to achieve smooth performance. With some tweaks and optimizations, the GTX 1060 3GB can still provide a good gaming experience for entry-level gamers.
Can the GTX 1060 6GB handle 1440p gaming with high graphics settings?
The GTX 1060 6GB can handle 1440p gaming with high graphics settings, but its performance may vary depending on the specific game and system configuration. In general, the 6GB version can deliver smooth performance in many games at 1440p, especially with lower graphics settings. However, more demanding games that require large amounts of video memory may still pose a challenge for the GTX 1060 6GB. Games with high-resolution textures, complex graphics, and large game worlds may require more video memory, which can lead to reduced performance on the 6GB version. Nevertheless, the GTX 1060 6GB has a higher memory capacity and bandwidth, making it well-suited for gaming at high resolutions and with high graphics settings.
To achieve smooth performance at 1440p with high graphics settings, it’s essential to adjust the graphics settings and optimize the system configuration. This may involve reducing the graphics quality, disabling anti-aliasing, or lowering the resolution. Additionally, ensuring that the system has sufficient CPU power, RAM, and storage can also help to optimize performance. While the GTX 1060 6GB may not be the best option for 1440p gaming with high graphics settings, it can still deliver good performance in many games, especially with some tweaks and optimizations. It’s essential to research and compare performance benchmarks to determine the best graphics settings and system configuration for specific games. With the right settings and optimizations, the GTX 1060 6GB can provide a good gaming experience at 1440p.