Did you know that the first CPU was invented in 1971 and was only about the size of a postage stamp? Today, CPUs are much more powerful and compact, and can fit in the palm of your hand!
When it comes to building a powerful gaming PC, choosing the right components is key. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting a CPU that complements your graphics card. The GTX 1660 is a popular mid-range graphics card that offers excellent performance and value for money. But, with so many CPU options available, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best fit.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the GTX 1660 graphics card, its performance and features, and what you should consider when choosing a CPU to go with it. We’ll also provide a comprehensive list of the best CPUs for the GTX 1660, and explain why they’re a great choice. Whether you’re a seasoned PC builder or a newcomer, this article will help you make an informed decision and get the most out of your GTX 1660 graphics card.
So, what CPU goes with the GTX 1660?
1 Understanding the GTX 1660 Graphics Card
The GTX 1660 Graphics Card is a popular mid-range graphics card that offers excellent performance and value for money. It’s designed for gamers who want a powerful graphics card that can handle demanding games and applications, without breaking the bank. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the GTX 1660 graphics card, its performance and features, and what you should consider when choosing a CPU to go with it.
Overview of the GTX 1660 Graphics Card:
The GTX 1660 is a powerful graphics card that’s based on NVIDIA’s Turing architecture. It features 1,408 CUDA cores, a base clock speed of 1,530 MHz, and a boost clock speed of 1,785 MHz. The graphics card also comes with 6GB of GDDR5 memory, which provides fast and efficient memory performance. It supports DirectX 12, OpenGL 4.5, and Vulkan API, and is compatible with Windows 10 and Windows 7 operating systems.
Performance and Features of the GTX 1660 Graphics Card:
The GTX 1660 is capable of delivering smooth and fluid gameplay, even at high resolutions and with demanding games. It’s capable of running most games at 1080p with 60 frames per second (FPS) or higher, and it can even handle some games at 1440p with reduced settings. The graphics card also supports real-time ray tracing, which provides more realistic lighting and shadows in games. It’s also equipped with NVIDIA’s Turing architecture, which provides improved performance and efficiency compared to previous generations.
What to Consider When Choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660:
When choosing a CPU to go with the GTX 1660, there are several important factors to consider. Firstly, you’ll want to make sure that the CPU is compatible with the GTX 1660 graphics card. This means that the CPU should have a compatible socket type, memory support, and power consumption. Secondly, you’ll want to consider the performance and features of the CPU, such as its speed, core count, brand, and model. Finally, you’ll want to consider the price and availability of the CPU, as well as its power consumption and energy efficiency.
As such, the GTX 1660 graphics card is a powerful and efficient mid-range graphics card that’s ideal for gamers who want a balance of performance and value for money. When choosing a CPU to go with the GTX 1660, it’s important to consider compatibility, performance and features, power consumption, and price and availability. By doing so, you’ll be able to get the most out of your GTX 1660 graphics card and enjoy smooth and fluid gameplay.
2 Recommended CPU Specifications for the GTX 1660
When it comes to choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660 graphics card, there are several important specifications to consider. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at each of these specifications, and explain why they’re important.
Processor Speed and Core Count:
The processor speed, also known as the clock speed, is an important factor to consider when choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660. A higher clock speed means that the CPU can process more instructions per second, which can lead to improved performance. The core count is also important, as it determines the number of processing units that the CPU has. A higher core count can lead to improved performance, especially when running demanding applications or games.
Processor Brand and Model:
The brand and model of the CPU can also have an impact on performance and compatibility. Intel and AMD are the two main CPU brands, and each has its own range of processors. Some processors are designed for high-performance, while others are designed for energy efficiency. It’s important to choose a CPU that’s compatible with the GTX 1660 graphics card, and that offers the performance and features that you need.
Processor Socket Type:
The socket type of the CPU is also important to consider, as it determines the compatibility with the motherboard. The GTX 1660 graphics card requires a CPU with a compatible socket type, such as LGA 1151 for Intel processors or AM4 for AMD processors.
Processor Memory Support:
The memory support of the CPU is also important, as it determines the amount of memory that the CPU can access. A CPU with higher memory support can lead to improved performance, especially when running demanding applications or games.
Processor Power Consumption:
The power consumption of the CPU is an important factor to consider, as it determines the amount of energy that the CPU uses. A CPU with higher power consumption will require a more powerful power supply, and may also generate more heat. It’s important to choose a CPU that’s energy efficient, and that has a power consumption that’s compatible with your system.
Processor Price and Availability:
The price and availability of the CPU is also important to consider, as it can affect your budget and the timing of your build. It’s important to choose a CPU that’s within your budget, and that’s readily available from a reputable retailer.
In summary, when choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660 graphics card, it’s important to consider the processor speed and core count, brand and model, socket type, memory support, power consumption, and price and availability. By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a CPU that’s compatible with the GTX 1660 graphics card, and that offers the performance and features that you need.
3 Best CPUs for the GTX 1660 – A Comprehensive List
When it comes to choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660 graphics card, there are several options to choose from. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best CPUs for the GTX 1660, and explain why they’re a great choice.
Intel Core i5-10600K:
The Intel Core i5-10600K is a powerful and efficient CPU that’s based on Intel’s 10th generation Core architecture. It features 6 cores and 12 threads, a base clock speed of 4.1 GHz, and a boost clock speed of 4.8 GHz. The CPU also supports up to 128GB of DDR4 memory, and has a TDP of 125W. It’s a great choice for gamers who want a balance of performance and value for money.
Intel Core i5-10500:
The Intel Core i5-10500 is another great option for the GTX 1660 graphics card. It features 6 cores and 12 threads, a base clock speed of 3.1 GHz, and a boost clock speed of 4.5 GHz. The CPU also supports up to 128GB of DDR4 memory, and has a TDP of 65W. It’s an energy-efficient option that’s ideal for gamers who want to build a quiet and cool system.
Intel Core i5-10400:
The Intel Core i5-10400 is a budget-friendly option for the GTX 1660 graphics card. It features 6 cores and 12 threads, a base clock speed of 2.9 GHz, and a boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz. The CPU also supports up to 128GB of DDR4 memory, and has a TDP of 65W. It’s a great choice for gamers who want a powerful CPU at a reasonable price.
AMD Ryzen 5 5600X:
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is a powerful and efficient CPU that’s based on AMD’s Zen 2 architecture. It features 6 cores and 12 threads, a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz, and a boost clock speed of 4.6 GHz. The CPU also supports up to 3200MHz of DDR4 memory, and has a TDP of 65W. It’s a great choice for gamers who want a balance of performance and value for money.
AMD Ryzen 5 3600X:
The AMD Ryzen 5 3600X is another great option for the GTX 1660 graphics card. It features 6 cores and 12 threads, a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz, and a boost clock speed of 4.4 GHz. The CPU also supports up to 3200MHz of DDR4 memory, and has a TDP of 95W. It’s a powerful option that’s ideal for gamers who want to build a high-performance system.
AMD Ryzen 5 2600X:
The AMD Ryzen 5 2600X is a budget-friendly option for the GTX 1660 graphics card. It features 6 cores and 12 threads, a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz, and a boost clock speed of 4.2 GHz. The CPU also supports up to 2933MHz of DDR4 memory, and has a TDP of 95W. It’s a great choice for gamers who want a powerful CPU at a reasonable price.
In summary, the CPUs listed above are some of the best options for the GTX 1660 graphics card. They offer a balance of performance, value for money, and compatibility, and are a great starting point for your search. Whether you’re looking for a powerful and efficient CPU, or a budget-friendly option, one of these CPUs is sure to meet your needs.
4 Factors to Consider When Choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660
When choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660 graphics card, there are several important factors to consider. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at each of these factors, and explain why they’re important.
Compatibility with the GTX 1660 Graphics Card:
The first and most important factor to consider when choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660 graphics card is compatibility. The CPU should have a compatible socket type, memory support, and power consumption, and should be compatible with the GTX 1660 graphics card. This will ensure that the CPU and graphics card will work together seamlessly, and that you’ll be able to get the most out of your system.
Processor Performance and Features:
The performance and features of the CPU are also important to consider. You’ll want to choose a CPU that’s fast and efficient, and that has the features that you need. The clock speed, core count, and memory support of the CPU are all important factors to consider, as they determine the performance of the CPU.
Processor Power Consumption:
The power consumption of the CPU is also important to consider, as it determines the amount of energy that the CPU uses. A CPU with higher power consumption will require a more powerful power supply, and may also generate more heat. It’s important to choose a CPU that’s energy efficient, and that has a power consumption that’s compatible with your system.
Processor Price and Availability:
The price and availability of the CPU is also important to consider, as it can affect your budget and the timing of your build. It’s important to choose a CPU that’s within your budget, and that’s readily available from a reputable retailer.
So ultimately, when choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660 graphics card, it’s important to consider compatibility, performance and features, power consumption, and price and availability. By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a CPU that’s compatible with the GTX 1660 graphics card, and that offers the performance and features that you need.
5 Compatibility with the GTX 1660 Graphics Card
When choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660 graphics card, compatibility is key. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at three important factors that determine compatibility between the CPU and the GTX 1660 graphics card: the processor socket type, memory support, and power consumption.
Processor Socket Type:
The socket type of the CPU is an important factor to consider when choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660 graphics card. The GTX 1660 graphics card requires a CPU with a compatible socket type, such as LGA 1151 for Intel processors or AM4 for AMD processors. Choosing a CPU with a compatible socket type will ensure that the CPU and graphics card will work together seamlessly, and that you’ll be able to get the most out of your system.
Processor Memory Support:
The memory support of the CPU is also important, as it determines the amount of memory that the CPU can access. A CPU with higher memory support can lead to improved performance, especially when running demanding applications or games. When choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660 graphics card, it’s important to choose a CPU that has memory support that’s compatible with the graphics card.
Processor Power Consumption:
The power consumption of the CPU is an important factor to consider, as it determines the amount of energy that the CPU uses. A CPU with higher power consumption will require a more powerful power supply, and may also generate more heat. It’s important to choose a CPU that’s energy efficient, and that has a power consumption that’s compatible with your system. When choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660 graphics card, it’s important to choose a CPU that has a power consumption that’s compatible with the graphics card.
So basically, when choosing a CPU for the GTX 1660 graphics card, it’s important to consider the processor socket type, memory support, and power consumption. By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a CPU that’s compatible with the GTX 1660 graphics card, and that offers the performance and features that you need.
6 Processor Performance and Features
When choosing a CPU, performance and features are important factors to consider. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at three key factors that determine the performance and features of a CPU: processor speed and core count, brand and model, and memory support.
Processor Speed and Core Count:
The speed and core count of a CPU are important factors to consider when choosing a CPU for your system. The clock speed of the CPU determines how fast the CPU can process data, and the core count determines how many tasks the CPU can perform simultaneously. A CPU with a higher clock speed and core count will generally offer better performance, but will also consume more power and generate more heat.
Processor Brand and Model:
The brand and model of the CPU are also important factors to consider when choosing a CPU. Different brands and models of CPUs offer different features and performance levels, and it’s important to choose a CPU that offers the features and performance that you need. Some popular brands of CPUs include Intel and AMD, and they offer a range of models to choose from, each with its own unique features and performance levels.
Processor Memory Support:
The memory support of the CPU is also important, as it determines the amount of memory that the CPU can access. A CPU with higher memory support can lead to improved performance, especially when running demanding applications or games. When choosing a CPU, it’s important to choose a CPU that has memory support that’s compatible with your system.
So basically, when choosing a CPU, it’s important to consider the processor speed and core count, brand and model, and memory support. By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a CPU that offers the performance and features that you need, and that’s compatible with your system.
7 Processor Power Consumption
The power consumption of the CPU is an important factor to consider when choosing a CPU for your system. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at two key factors that determine the power consumption of a CPU: the power consumption of the processor, and the energy efficiency of the processor.
Power Consumption of the Processor:
The power consumption of the processor is an important factor to consider when choosing a CPU, as it determines the amount of energy that the CPU uses. A CPU with higher power consumption will require a more powerful power supply, and may also generate more heat. It’s important to choose a CPU that has a power consumption that’s compatible with your system, and that won’t require a more powerful power supply or generate more heat than your system can handle.
Energy Efficiency of the Processor:
The energy efficiency of the processor is also an important factor to consider when choosing a CPU. Energy efficiency refers to the amount of energy that the CPU uses compared to its performance. A CPU that’s more energy efficient will use less energy, and will generate less heat, than a CPU that’s less energy efficient. When choosing a CPU, it’s important to choose a CPU that’s energy efficient, and that has a power consumption that’s compatible with your system.
So basically, when choosing a CPU, it’s important to consider the power consumption of the processor, and the energy efficiency of the processor. By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a CPU that’s compatible with your system, and that offers the performance and features that you need, while also being energy efficient.
8 Processor Price and Availability
When choosing a CPU, the price and availability of the processor are important factors to consider. The price of the CPU can affect your budget, and the availability of the processor can affect the timing of your build. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at each of these factors, and explain why they’re important.
Processor Price:
The price of the CPU is an important factor to consider when choosing a CPU for your system. CPUs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the performance and features that they offer. It’s important to choose a CPU that’s within your budget, and that offers the performance and features that you need.
Availability of the Processor:
The availability of the processor is also an important factor to consider when choosing a CPU. Some CPUs may be readily available from a reputable retailer, while others may be difficult to find or out of stock. It’s important to choose a CPU that’s readily available from a reputable retailer, and that won’t delay your build.
In short, when choosing a CPU, it’s important to consider the price and availability of the processor. By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a CPU that’s within your budget, and that’s readily available from a reputable retailer, and that offers the performance and features that you need.
9 FAQ
What CPU is best for a GTX 1660?
The best CPU for a GTX 1660 would be one that is compatible with its socket type, has sufficient memory support, and has a power consumption that’s compatible with the graphics card. Some recommended CPUs for the GTX 1660 include the Intel Core i5-10600K and the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X. However, the best CPU for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. It’s important to consider factors such as compatibility, performance and features, power consumption, and price and availability when making your decision.
What budget processor for GTX 1660?
A budget processor for the GTX 1660 would be one that is compatible with its socket type, has sufficient memory support, and has a power consumption that’s compatible with the graphics card, while also being affordable. Some recommended budget CPUs for the GTX 1660 include the Intel Core i3-10100 and the AMD Ryzen 3 3300X. However, the best budget CPU for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. It’s important to consider factors such as compatibility, performance and features, power consumption, and price and availability when making your decision.
What CPU won’t bottleneck GTX 1660 Super?
A CPU that won’t bottleneck the GTX 1660 Super would be one that has a high clock speed, a high core count, and a power consumption that’s compatible with the graphics card. Some recommended CPUs for the GTX 1660 Super that won’t bottleneck it include the Intel Core i5-10600K and the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X. However, the best CPU for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. It’s important to consider factors such as compatibility, performance and features, power consumption, and price and availability when making your decision.
What is a good CPU for GTX 1660Ti?
A good CPU for the GTX 1660Ti would be one that is compatible with its socket type, has sufficient memory support, and has a power consumption that’s compatible with the graphics card. Some recommended CPUs for the GTX 1660Ti include the Intel Core i5-10600K and the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X. However, the best CPU for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. It’s important to consider factors such as compatibility, performance and features, power consumption, and price and availability when making your decision.
10 Conclusion
Lastly, choosing the right CPU for your GTX 1660 graphics card is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and compatibility. It’s important to consider factors such as compatibility, performance and features, power consumption, and price and availability when making your decision. The recommended CPUs listed above are a great starting point, but it’s always a good idea to do your own research and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Remember, the right CPU can make a huge difference in the performance of your system, so take your time and choose wisely. With the right CPU, you’ll be able to get the most out of your GTX 1660 graphics card, and enjoy a smooth and powerful gaming experience.