Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti (NVIDIA, 2019) and GeForce GTX 980 Ti (NVIDIA, 2015) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 1660 Ti is about 7.8% faster
Both have 6GB of VRAM, so they support a similar range of generative AI models. For gaming, prioritize performance score and CPU compatibility; for AI, prioritize VRAM.
Relative performance score (higher is faster). Actual fps varies by resolution, game, and CPU configuration.
| Item | GTX 1660 Ti | GTX 980 Ti |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 11,000 | 10,200 |
| VRAM | 6GB | 6GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 16 | GTX 900 |
| Release Year | 2019 | 2015 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Ryzen 3 2300X | Core i5-7600K |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | GTX 1660 Ti |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 1660 Ti |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 980 Ti (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 1660 Ti is about 7.8% higher by score (GTX 1660 Ti: 11000 points / GTX 980 Ti: 10200 points). Actual fps also varies by resolution, game, and CPU, so price is a reasonable deciding factor when the gap is only a few percent.
Both have 6GB of VRAM, so the range of generative AI models they can run is nearly the same.
Using our guideline, Ryzen 3 2300X pairs well with GTX 1660 Ti and Core i5-7600K with GTX 980 Ti (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
