Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 660 (NVIDIA, 2012) and GeForce GTX 560 (NVIDIA, 2011) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 660 is about 16.7% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM GTX 660（2GB） has the advantage. 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 660 | GTX 560 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 3,500 | 3,000 |
| VRAM | 2GB | 1GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 600 | GTX 500 |
| Release Year | 2012 | 2011 |
| Compatible CPU Example | AMD A6-7470K | AMD Phenom II X2 560 |
These generative AI models can run on only one GPU because of the VRAM difference (Stable Diffusion, Flux, LLMs, and others).
— None (all models that run on GTX 660 also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | GTX 660 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 660 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 560 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 660 is about 16.7% higher by score (GTX 660: 3500 points / GTX 560: 3000 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.
GTX 660 has 2GB of VRAM, while GTX 560 has 1GB; GTX 660 has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, AMD A6-7470K pairs well with GTX 660 and AMD Phenom II X2 560 with GTX 560 (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
→ GTX 660 Details ／ GTX 560 Details ／ Compare Another Combination
