Many users have expressed that they either do not utilize Ray Tracing technology or only use it on rare occasions. Additionally, with the high cost of current graphics cards, many users are seeking more affordable alternatives. Now let’s evaluate whether the NVIDIA GTX 1060 6 GB is a suitable graphics card for gaming in the mid-2023.
To begin, let’s examine the specifications of the NVIDIA GTX 1060 6 GB. This graphics card was initially released in 2017, and we will be discussing the latest revision from October 2018.
The GTX 1060 6 GB model features 1,280 CUDA Cores operating at a base frequency of 1,506 MHz, with a Boost mode reaching up to 1,709 MHz. It’s worth noting that the models we found are equipped with 6 GB of GDDR5 memory. We did not come across any new models with GDDR5X memory.
Currently, NVIDIA has discontinued the production of this graphics card. If it is still available, it would likely be in the form of remaining stock or on second-hand websites.
Will we be able to play with it in 2023?
There are two important factors to consider. If you intend to play games like Dota 2, CS:GO, Fortnite, or similar titles, the NVIDIA GTX 1060 6 GB is an excellent graphics card. However, when it comes to enjoying modern games released this year, the situation changes.
It’s worth noting that developers often do not optimize games specifically for older hardware. As game requirements continue to increase, can you still play a game released in 2023 with an NVIDIA GTX 1060 6 GB? The answer is both yes and no.
Let’s take a look at some examples of games and their minimum requirements:
1. FarCry 6: Requires at least a GTX 960 4 GB (below the GTX 1060 6 GB).
2. Forspoken: Minimum recommended GPU is a GTX 1060 6 GB.
3. Hogwarts Legacy: Requires at least a GTX 960 4 GB.
4. Returnal: Requires at least a GTX 1060 6 GB.
5. Atomic Heart: Requires at least a GTX 1060 6 GB for 1080p @ 60 FPS.
6. Resident Evil 4 Remake: Requires at least a GTX 560 4 GB.
7. The Last of Us 1: Requires at least a GTX 970 or a GTX 1050 Ti.
8. Dead Island 2: Requires at least a GTX 1060.
As we can see, many current games ask for either a GTX 1060 6 GB or a lower-end model. This means that you can play numerous games without encountering significant issues. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this list may become less extensive in the upcoming years as game requirements continue to evolve.
OK, but how much is the NVIDIA GTX 1060 6 GB worth?
It’s important to note that the NVIDIA GTX 1060 6 GB is currently discontinued by NVIDIA. While it may still be possible to find new units, they are likely remnants of stock. Alternatively, it is relatively easy to find this graphics card in the second-hand market.
Additionally, there are “rare” models available on platforms like Amazon, often originating from China. These versions may be slightly more expensive and can raise doubts about their authenticity and reliability.
If you’re looking to purchase a NVIDIA GTX 1060 6 GB, you can find it on platforms like Wallapop for approximately 70-100 euros in most cases. Some models may even be cheaper. However, considering its age and discontinuation, it is advisable not to pay more than 100 euros for this graphics card.
Conclusion
The NVIDIA GTX 1060 6 GB is indeed not a graphics card intended for long-term usage. It can be considered as a temporary solution for the medium or short term. As technology advances and game requirements increase, it is likely that we will see fewer games recommending the GTX 1060. Instead, newer models like the GTX 1660 will become the recommended choice.
However, the GTX 1060 will still perform admirably in eSports games such as Dota 2, League of Legends, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Fortnite, and PUBG. These games tend to have lower hardware requirements and can still be enjoyed on the GTX 1060 for the foreseeable future.