GIGABYTE GeForce GTX 1070 8GB vs GIGABYTE GeForce GTX 1060 3GB: Spec Comparison
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This comparison looks at the gigabyte geforce gtx 1070 windforce vs geforce gtx 1060 windforce. Both cards use the WINDFORCE 2X cooling system with Blade Fan Design and support 8K displays at 60Hz. They share the same ATX form factor and GDDR5 memory type. The main difference lies in their core performance. The GTX 1070 offers 8GB of memory and a wider bus, while the GTX 1060 has 3GB of memory. You need to decide which spec profile fits your system better.
Key differences
| Aspect | Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 8GB | Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 3GB GDDR5 |
|---|---|---|
| Graphics Processor | GeForce GTX 1070 | GeForce GTX 1060 |
| Memory Size | 8GB | 3GB |
| Memory Bus Width | 256bit | not listed |
| Boost Clock | not listed | 1797 MHz |
| Length | 11 inches | 8.8 inches |
| Recommended PSU | 500 W | 400W |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 8GB if
- You need more video memory for high-resolution textures.
- You prefer a card with a wider memory bus interface.
- Your power supply unit provides at least 500 watts.
Choose Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 3GB GDDR5 if
- You want a shorter card that fits in smaller cases.
- You are looking for a specific boost clock speed of 1797 MHz.
- Your power supply unit is rated at 400 watts.
Verdict: The GTX 1070 is the better choice if you require more memory bandwidth and VRAM for demanding tasks. The GTX 1060 is suitable if you need a physically smaller card and have a lower wattage power supply. Your decision should depend on your case size and power constraints.
GTX 1070 vs 1060 Spec Breakdown
Memory capacity
The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 8GB includes 8GB of GDDR5 memory. This larger buffer helps when handling high-resolution textures or running modern titles at higher settings. The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 3GB GDDR5 offers only 3GB of GDDR5 memory. While sufficient for older games or lower resolutions, it may struggle with memory-heavy applications. If you plan to game at 1080p with high texture packs, the extra 5GB on the 1070 provides more headroom. The 1060’s smaller capacity is a clear limitation for future-proofing or demanding workloads. You should consider your typical game library when weighing this difference.
Graphics processor
The core difference lies in the GPU chip itself. The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 8GB uses the GeForce GTX 1070 processor, which is a higher-tier model in the Pascal lineup. The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 3GB GDDR5 relies on the GeForce GTX 1060 chip. Generally, the 1070 offers more CUDA cores and higher raw performance per clock. This translates to better frame rates in CPU and GPU-bound scenarios. If your priority is maximum performance in demanding titles, the 1070’s processor is superior. The 1060 is designed for entry-level to mid-range gaming. You will notice a performance gap between these two chips in most benchmarks.
Memory interface
Memory bandwidth is influenced by the bus width. The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 8GB features a 256-bit memory bus width. This wider interface allows more data to pass between the memory and the GPU simultaneously. The specifications for the Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 3GB GDDR5 do not explicitly list the bus width in the provided data. However, standard GTX 1060 models typically use a 192-bit bus. A wider bus generally supports higher bandwidth, which helps with texture streaming. If the 1060 indeed uses a narrower bus, the 1070 has a distinct advantage in data throughput. This spec is critical for maintaining performance at higher resolutions.
Physical length
Case compatibility is vital before purchasing. The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 8GB measures 11 inches in length. This is a longer card that requires a spacious chassis. The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 3GB GDDR5 is shorter, measuring 8.8 inches in length. If you have a compact mid-tower or small form factor case, the 1060 is easier to fit. The 1070 might not clear certain component shrouds or drive cages. You should measure your available expansion slot space carefully. The 1060 offers better flexibility for smaller builds, while the 1070 demands more room.
Power requirements
Power supply compatibility is another key factor. The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 8GB recommends a 500 W PSU. This reflects its higher power draw due to the more powerful GPU and larger memory subsystem. The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 3GB GDDR5 recommends a 400W PSU. This lower requirement makes it easier to pair with existing older power supplies. If you are upgrading a system with a modest power source, the 1060 is less demanding. The 1070 may require a PSU upgrade if your current unit is near its limit. Consider your total system wattage when deciding between these two options.
Which GTX card fits your needs
You want higher resolution gaming performance
The GTX 1070 includes 8GB of GDDR5 memory on a 256-bit bus. This larger memory capacity helps you handle high-resolution textures more effectively. You will benefit from smoother frame rates in demanding titles compared to the 3GB option. The 500W recommended PSU supports this more powerful graphics processor for stable operation.
You need a compact and efficient card
The GTX 1060 measures 8.8 inches in length, making it easier to fit in smaller cases. It requires only a 400W power supply, which reduces energy usage. While it has less memory, its boost clock reaches 1797 MHz. This card suits users who prioritize physical size and power efficiency over maximum graphical fidelity.
You plan to use multiple high-res displays
Both cards support 8K displays at 60Hz, but the GTX 1070 offers more headroom. Its 8GB memory buffer provides extra space for large textures and multi-monitor setups. The 256-bit memory bus allows higher data throughput. If you drive complex visual scenes or require extra VRAM for future-proofing, this extra capacity is a clear advantage.
The products compared
Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 8GB
Best for: 1080p and 1440p gaming with 8K display support
- Graphics Processor
- GeForce GTX 1070
- Memory Size
- 8GB
- Memory Type
- GDDR5
- Memory Bus Width
- 256bit
- Recommended PSU
- 500 W
- Dimensions
- 11 × 1.45 × 5.16 inches
View on Amazon: Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 8GB Affiliate link
This Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 Windforce OC 8G REV2.0 graphics card features 8GB of GDDR5 memory on a 256-bit bus. It uses the Windforce 2X cooling system with Blade Fans and supports displays up to 8K at 60Hz. The card requires a 500W power supply and measures 11.0 inches in length. It suits users needing solid 1080p or 1440p performance with reliable cooling.
Pros
- 8GB GDDR5 memory with a 256-bit bus width
- Windforce 2X cooling with Blade Fan Design
- Supports up to 8K display at 60Hz
- Built with 6+2 power phases for stability
Cons
- Length of 11.0 inches may not fit smaller cases
- Requires a 500W power supply unit
- Uses GDDR5 memory instead of newer GDDR5X or GDDR6
Good fit if
- You need 8GB of VRAM for high-resolution textures
- You want support for 8K displays
- You have a case that fits 11-inch cards
Skip if
- You have a power supply smaller than 500W
- You require a graphics card shorter than 11 inches
- You want the latest GDDR6 memory technology
Verdict: Gigabyte GTX 1070 Windforce OC 8GB offers ample VRAM and 8K support for users with compatible cases and power supplies.
Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 3GB GDDR5
Best for: Budget 1080p gaming and basic display needs
- Graphics Processor
- GeForce GTX 1060
- Memory Size
- 3GB
- Memory Type
- GDDR5
- Boost Clock
- 1797 MHz
- Recommended PSU
- 400W
- Dimensions
- 8.8 × 4.8 × 1.6 inches
View on Amazon: Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 3GB GDDR5 Affiliate link
This Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card features 3GB of GDDR5 memory. It includes a Windforce cooling system with two blade fans. The OC mode boosts the clock to 1797 MHz. You need a 400W power supply for stable operation. The card supports 8K display output at 60Hz. It fits standard ATX cases. This setup suits entry-level gaming or basic display tasks.
Pros
- 3GB GDDR5 memory capacity
- 1797 MHz boost clock in OC mode
- Windforce 2x blade fan cooling design
- Supports 8K display at 60Hz
Cons
- Only 3GB of video memory limits modern high-resolution textures
- Physical dimensions of 8.8 inches may not fit small cases
- Requires a 400W power supply unit
Good fit if
- You need a budget-friendly card for 1080p gaming
- You require support for 8K display output
- Your case can accommodate an 8.8-inch long card
Skip if
- You need more than 3GB of VRAM for modern titles
- You plan to run high-end games at 1440p or 4K
- Your power supply is below 400W
Verdict: Gigabyte GTX 1060 3GB Windforce offers solid 1080p performance for budget builds. It fits users who prioritize low cost over high resolution settings.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 8GB | Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 3GB GDDR5 |
|---|---|---|
| Graphics Processor | GeForce GTX 1070 | GeForce GTX 1060 |
| Memory Size | 8GB | 3GB |
| Memory Type | GDDR5 | GDDR5 |
| Boost Clock | not stated | 1797 MHz |
| Memory Bus Width | 256bit | not stated |
| Recommended PSU | 500 W | 400W |
| Memory | 8GB | not stated |
| Dimensions | 11 × 1.45 × 5.16 inches | 8.8 × 4.8 × 1.6 inches |
| Size | not stated | GV-N1060WF2OC-3GD |
| Color | not stated | Boost Clock 1797 MHz |
Frequently asked questions
Which card is better for 1440p gaming?
The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 8GB is the better choice for 1440p gaming. It includes 8GB of GDDR5 memory, which provides ample buffer for high-resolution textures. This larger capacity helps maintain smoother frame rates in demanding titles compared to the 3GB variant.
Do both cards support 8K displays?
Yes, both the GTX 1070 and GTX 1060 Windforce models support 8K displays at 60Hz. This shared feature allows you to connect to high-resolution monitors. However, the 1070’s 8GB memory makes it more suitable for driving those pixels effectively in modern applications.
What is the physical size difference between them?
The GTX 1070 is significantly larger than the GTX 1060. The 1070 measures 11 inches in length, while the 1060 is 8.8 inches long. You need to check your case clearance carefully. The 1070 also has a wider profile at 5.16 inches versus 4.8 inches.
Is the GTX 1070 worth the extra size?
If you have a compatible case, the extra size of the GTX 1070 is worth it for performance. It offers 8GB of VRAM and supports higher resolutions. The larger dimensions accommodate its cooling system and higher power requirements, delivering better gaming results than the smaller 1060.
Which card has more video memory?
The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1070 8GB has more video memory. It features 8GB of GDDR5, whereas the GTX 1060 has only 3GB. This difference allows the 1070 to handle more complex scenes and higher texture settings without running out of buffer space during gameplay.
Can I use the GTX 1060 for basic display needs?
Yes, the Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 3GB is suitable for basic display needs. It is designed for budget 1080p gaming and general use. If you prioritize low cost over high-resolution settings, this smaller card fits your requirements while still providing solid performance for everyday tasks.
Do they use the same cooling system?
Both cards use the WINDFORCE 2X cooling system with Blade Fan Design. This shared technology helps manage heat during gaming sessions. You can expect similar cooling efficiency features, though the larger physical size of the 1070 may allow for better airflow due to its greater dimensions.