Performance comparison: which is faster?
GeForce GTX 980 Ti (NVIDIA, 2015) and GeForce GTX 1660 (NVIDIA, 2019) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: GTX 980 Ti is about 3% 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 980 Ti | GTX 1660 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 10,200 | 9,900 |
| VRAM | 6GB | 6GB |
| Manufacturer | NVIDIA | NVIDIA |
| Series | GTX 900 | GTX 16 |
| Release Year | 2015 | 2019 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Core i5-7600K | Core i7-3770K |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | GTX 980 Ti |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | GTX 980 Ti |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | GTX 1660 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
GTX 980 Ti is about 3% higher by score (GTX 980 Ti: 10200 points / GTX 1660: 9900 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, Core i5-7600K pairs well with GTX 980 Ti and Core i7-3770K with GTX 1660 (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
