The Nvidia GTX 1060 has been a staple in the gaming community since its release in 2016. Known for its impressive performance and affordable price point, it has become a favorite among gamers and graphics enthusiasts alike. However, with the rapid advancement of technology and the release of newer, more powerful graphics cards, many are left wondering: does Nvidia still make GTX 1060? In this article, we will delve into the world of graphics cards, exploring the history of the GTX 1060, its current production status, and what this means for consumers.
Introduction to the GTX 1060
The GTX 1060 is a mid-range graphics card that was released by Nvidia in July 2016. Based on the Pascal architecture, it was designed to provide a balance between performance and power consumption. The card features 1280 CUDA cores, 6 GB of GDDR5 memory, and a boost clock speed of up to 1708 MHz. At the time of its release, the GTX 1060 was a significant improvement over its predecessor, the GTX 960, and quickly became a popular choice among gamers.
Performance and Features
The GTX 1060 is capable of delivering smooth performance in a wide range of games, including popular titles such as Fortnite, PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, and Overwatch. It also supports advanced features like DirectX 12, Vulkan, and Nvidia’s proprietary technologies, such as G-Sync and GameWorks. The card’s power consumption is relatively low, with a TDP of 120W, making it a great option for those looking to build a compact gaming system.
Success and Impact
The GTX 1060 was a commercial success, with many considering it to be one of the best graphics cards of 2016. Its popularity can be attributed to its impressive performance, affordable price point, and widespread availability. The card’s success also led to the creation of various custom models, with different manufacturers offering their own unique twists on the design. Some of these custom models included factory overclocked versions, liquid cooled models, and mini ITX versions designed for compact systems.
Current Production Status
So, does Nvidia still make GTX 1060? The answer is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no. While Nvidia has officially discontinued the production of the GTX 1060, there are still some factors to consider. The company has stopped manufacturing the card, and it is no longer available for purchase from Nvidia’s official website or through their authorized distributors. However, it is still possible to find the GTX 1060 in stock at some retailers, although these are likely to be leftover inventory from when the card was still in production.
Discontinuation and Replacement
Nvidia discontinued the GTX 1060 in favor of newer, more powerful graphics cards like the GTX 1660 and GTX 1660 Super. These cards offer improved performance, increased power efficiency, and support for the latest technologies, such as PCIe 4.0 and Variable Rate Shading. The GTX 1660 and GTX 1660 Super are designed to provide a similar balance between performance and price, making them attractive options for those looking to upgrade from the GTX 1060.
Availability and Pricing
Although the GTX 1060 is no longer in production, it can still be found for sale at some online retailers and through third-party sellers. Prices for the card vary depending on the retailer, the condition of the card, and any custom features or overclocking that may have been applied. On average, a used or refurbished GTX 1060 can be found for around $200-$300, although prices may be higher or lower depending on the specific model and condition.
Alternatives and Upgrades
For those looking to upgrade from the GTX 1060 or purchase a new graphics card, there are several alternatives available. Nvidia’s GTX 1660 and GTX 1660 Super are direct successors to the GTX 1060, offering improved performance and features. Other options include the AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT and RX 6700 XT, which provide similar performance to the GTX 1660 and GTX 1660 Super, respectively.
Upgrade Path
Upgrading from the GTX 1060 to a newer graphics card can be a relatively straightforward process, depending on the system configuration and available budget. Those looking to upgrade should consider the following factors:
- Power supply: Ensure that the power supply unit (PSU) can handle the increased power requirements of the new graphics card.
- Motherboard compatibility: Verify that the motherboard supports the new graphics card and has the necessary PCIe slots available.
- Cooling: Consider the cooling requirements of the new graphics card, as some models may require additional cooling solutions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Nvidia no longer produces the GTX 1060, it is still possible to find the card in stock at some retailers. However, with the release of newer, more powerful graphics cards, it may be worth considering an upgrade to take advantage of improved performance and features. The GTX 1660 and GTX 1660 Super are direct successors to the GTX 1060, offering a similar balance between performance and price. For those looking to upgrade or purchase a new graphics card, it is essential to consider factors such as power supply, motherboard compatibility, and cooling requirements to ensure a smooth and successful upgrade process.
What is the current production status of the Nvidia GTX 1060?
The Nvidia GTX 1060 was a highly popular graphics card released in 2016, known for its excellent performance and power efficiency. However, as with any technology product, its production run eventually came to an end. Nvidia officially discontinued the GTX 1060 in 2019, as part of its efforts to transition to newer, more powerful graphics card architectures. Since then, the company has focused on producing and promoting its more recent GeForce RTX series, which offers improved performance, features, and power efficiency.
Although Nvidia no longer manufactures the GTX 1060, it is still possible to find new or used units for sale through various online retailers, second-hand marketplaces, or electronics stores. However, buyers should be cautious when purchasing used or refurbished GTX 1060 cards, as they may not come with warranties or support from Nvidia. Additionally, the availability and pricing of these cards can vary greatly depending on the region, seller, and condition of the product. As a result, it is essential for buyers to research and compare prices, as well as check the seller’s ratings and reviews before making a purchase.
What are the key features and specifications of the Nvidia GTX 1060?
The Nvidia GTX 1060 is a mid-range graphics card based on the Pascal architecture, which was a significant improvement over the previous Maxwell architecture. The card features 1280 CUDA cores, 6 GB of GDDR5 memory, and a 192-bit memory bus. It also has a base clock speed of 1506 MHz and a boost clock speed of 1708 MHz, allowing it to deliver smooth performance in various games and applications. Additionally, the GTX 1060 supports popular technologies such as DirectX 12, OpenGL 4.5, and Vulkan, making it a versatile choice for gamers and content creators.
In terms of performance, the GTX 1060 is capable of handling demanding games at 1080p and 1440p resolutions, although it may struggle with 4K gaming. The card also supports Nvidia’s proprietary technologies, such as G-Sync and ShadowWorks, which can enhance the gaming experience. However, it is essential to note that the GTX 1060 is an older card, and its performance may not be comparable to newer graphics cards. Nevertheless, it remains a popular choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option or a card for older systems that may not support newer graphics cards.
Can I still buy a new Nvidia GTX 1060 from authorized retailers?
As mentioned earlier, Nvidia discontinued the GTX 1060 in 2019, which means that the card is no longer in production. As a result, it is challenging to find new GTX 1060 units for sale through authorized Nvidia retailers or partners. Most retailers have likely sold out their existing stock, and any remaining units may be refurbished or used cards. However, some online retailers may still offer new GTX 1060 cards, possibly sourced from third-party suppliers or distributors. In such cases, buyers should exercise caution and verify the authenticity and warranty of the product before making a purchase.
Buyers should also be aware that purchasing a new GTX 1060 from unauthorized retailers or third-party sellers may void the warranty or support from Nvidia. Additionally, the card may not be eligible for future driver updates, which could impact its performance and compatibility with newer games and applications. Therefore, it is crucial for buyers to weigh the pros and cons of purchasing a new GTX 1060, considering factors such as price, availability, and support, before making an informed decision.
What are the alternatives to the Nvidia GTX 1060?
For those looking for a graphics card with similar performance to the GTX 1060, there are several alternatives available in the market. Nvidia’s more recent GeForce GTX 1660 and GTX 1660 Super offer improved performance and power efficiency, making them attractive options for gamers and content creators. Additionally, AMD’s Radeon RX 5600 XT and RX 6700 XT provide competitive performance and features, although they may have different strengths and weaknesses compared to Nvidia’s offerings. Buyers should research and compare the specifications, performance, and pricing of these alternatives to find the best fit for their needs and budget.
When considering alternatives to the GTX 1060, buyers should also think about the system requirements and compatibility of the new card. For example, newer graphics cards may require more power, a different power connector, or a specific motherboard chipset. Furthermore, buyers should ensure that the new card is compatible with their existing system components, such as the CPU, RAM, and storage. By doing so, they can avoid potential compatibility issues and ensure a smooth upgrade process.
Is the Nvidia GTX 1060 still supported by Nvidia with driver updates?
Although Nvidia has discontinued the GTX 1060, the company still provides driver support for the card, albeit with some limitations. Nvidia typically offers driver updates for its graphics cards for several years after their release, which includes security patches, bug fixes, and performance optimizations. However, the frequency and scope of these updates may decrease over time, especially for older cards like the GTX 1060. As a result, buyers should not expect the same level of support and updates as newer graphics cards, which may receive more frequent and comprehensive updates.
In terms of specific driver support, Nvidia has confirmed that the GTX 1060 will continue to receive critical security updates and bug fixes, but it may not be eligible for newer features, technologies, or performance optimizations. Buyers should check Nvidia’s official website for the latest driver updates and release notes, which will indicate the level of support and changes included in each update. Additionally, buyers can use Nvidia’s GeForce Experience software to automatically detect and install driver updates, making it easier to keep their GTX 1060 up to date.
Can I use the Nvidia GTX 1060 for gaming at 4K resolutions?
The Nvidia GTX 1060 is not ideally suited for gaming at 4K resolutions, as it may struggle to deliver smooth performance in demanding games. While the card can handle 4K resolutions in some games, it may not be able to maintain a consistent frame rate, especially in games with complex graphics or high frame rates. Additionally, the GTX 1060’s 6 GB of GDDR5 memory may not be sufficient for 4K gaming, which can require more video memory to store detailed textures and graphics.
For 4K gaming, buyers may want to consider more powerful graphics cards, such as Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 3070 or AMD’s Radeon RX 6800 XT, which offer improved performance, more video memory, and advanced features like ray tracing and artificial intelligence. These cards are designed to handle the demands of 4K gaming and can provide a more immersive and engaging experience. However, for those on a budget or with older systems, the GTX 1060 can still offer decent performance at lower resolutions, such as 1080p or 1440p, making it a viable option for casual gaming or entry-level systems.
What is the expected lifespan of the Nvidia GTX 1060?
The expected lifespan of the Nvidia GTX 1060 depends on various factors, including usage, maintenance, and environmental conditions. Generally, a well-maintained GTX 1060 can last for several years, providing reliable performance and functionality. However, as with any electronic component, the card’s lifespan can be affected by factors such as power surges, overheating, or physical damage. Additionally, the card’s performance may degrade over time due to the natural wear and tear of its components, such as the GPU, memory, and cooling system.
To extend the lifespan of the GTX 1060, buyers should ensure proper installation, maintenance, and operation of the card. This includes keeping the card clean, using a reliable power supply, and monitoring temperatures to prevent overheating. Additionally, buyers should avoid overclocking the card excessively, as this can reduce its lifespan and potentially cause damage. By following these guidelines and taking proper care of the GTX 1060, buyers can enjoy a longer lifespan and optimal performance from their graphics card.