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Best CPU For GTX 1660 Super – An Expert Buyer’s Guide [2022]

The GTX 1660 super is an impressive GPU. It can play games, including AAA games, for a reasonable price.

However, you’ll need the best CPU for GTX 1660 Super to get great performance.

We have invested hours doing intensive research and testing to give you a genuine hands-on experience on the best CPUs for the GeForce GTX 1660 super.

Members of our team, who are avid gamers, tested these CPUs and paired them with the GTX 1660 to get their maximum potential and unravel the top products, among many others.

Aside from this, we also created a buyer’s guide for you. Here, you will learn about the various features you need to look out for when choosing a CPU.

With these in mind, we have identified the 7 best excellent CPUs. Out of all of them, the best CPU for GTX 1660 super is AMD Ryzen 3600.

Check them out below!

Contents

Best CPU FOR GTX 1660 Super – A Comparison Table

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Top Choice
AMD Ryzen 5 3600
AMD Ryzen 5 3600
  • Base clock speed: 3.6 Ghz
  • Cores/threads: 6 cores/12 threads
  • TDP: 65 W
  • Cooler Included: Yes
Check Latest Price
Also Great
AMD Ryzen 7 2700X
AMD Ryzen 7 2700X
  • Base clock speed: 3.7 GHz
  • Cores/threads: 8 cores / 16 threads
  • TDP: 105 W
  • Cooler Included: Yes
Check Latest Price
Best Budget Choice
Intel Core i5-9600K
Intel Core i5-9600K
  • Base clock speed: 3.70  GHz
  • Cores/threads: 6 cores / 6 threads
  • TDP: 95 W
  • Cooler Included: No
Check Latest Price
AMD Ryzen 5 1600AMD Ryzen 5 1600
  • Base clock speed: 3.2 GHz
  • Cores/threads: 6 cores/ 12 threads
  • TDP: 65 W
  • Cooler Included: Yes
Check Latest Price
Intel® Core™ i5-10600Intel® Core™ i5-10600
  • Base clock speed: 3.30 GHz
  • Cores/threads: 6 cores/12 threads
  • TDP: 65 W
  • Cooler Included: Yes
Check Latest Price
Intel Core i5-10400FIntel Core i5-10400F
  • Base clock speed: 2.90 GHz
  • Cores/threads: 6 cores / 12 threads
  • TDP: 65 W
  • Cooler Included: Yes
Check Latest Price
Intel Core i9-9900KIntel Core i9-9900K
  • Base clock speed: 3.60 GHz
  • Cores/threads: 8 cores / 16 threads
  • TDP: 95 W
  • Cooler Included: No
Check Latest Price

How We Reviewed Our CPUs

To find the best processors for the GeForce GTX 1660 super, we looked at its memory speed, overclocking capabilities, power consumption, core count, and thread count.

In addition, we also considered customer satisfaction as a criterion for our review.

  • 87 hours of intensive product research and testing
  • 2 in-home tests
  • 53 CPUs considered

After our review, we considered 53 CPUs most compatible with the GTX 1660 super. Then, we cross-referenced their benchmark and performance results with other reviewers.

Next, we chose the top 25 performers and pushed them to their limits. We tested 2 of them and had other team members try them.

After stress testing, limit testing, and multithreaded testing, 7 processors emerged as the best processors for the GTX 1660 Super.

7 Best CPUs for Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super Reviewed

Top Choice
#1 AMD Ryzen 5 3600
10/10Our Score

The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 is the best CPU for GTX 1660 super. It is equipped with 6 cores, 12 threads, and runs at the base frequency of 3.6 GHz. It has an overclocking feature to boost your base frequency to 4.2 GHz. It has an increased IPC and better thermal regulation, thanks to its Zen 2 architecture. It comes with a bundled cooler, supports Gen 4.0 PCIe lanes, and dual-channel DDR4 - 3200. In addition, it has 35 MB of cache.

Pros
  • It comes with a high-performance cooler.
  • It is future-proof.
  • It has an IPC gain and boosted frequencies.
  • It has an unlocked multiplier.
  • It has an ultra-fast performance.
Cons
  • It does not come with integrated Radeon Vega graphics.

First, the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 has 6 cores and 12 threads. Its build will allow you to play most games and run any multi-core chip applications. 

amd ryzen 5 3600 processor for gtx 1660 super reviewed

It runs at the base frequency of 3.6 GHz. Compared to previous AMD processors, the Ryzen 5 3600’s Zen 2 Architecture increases IPC. It comes with an unlocked multiplier that boosts frequency up to 4.2 GHz.

Next, this powerful processor has 35 MB of cache for better resource utilization, latency reduction, and execution time. It will allow your build to have an impressive gaming performance and handle any tasks for gaming purposes.

This AMD processor only consumes 65 W at its base frequency. Thanks to AMD’s thermoregulating technologies, its temperature doesn’t get too hot when overclocked.

In addition, the Ryzen 5 3600 comes with a capable cooler that can help maintain cooling temperatures. 

Next, the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 supports Gen 4.0 PCIe lanes, dual-channel DDR4-3200, and AM4 chipset motherboards. The 3600’s hardware compatibility allows you to optimize your GTX 1660 super.

When paired with a capable RAM stick, power supply, and an AMD Ryzen 5 3600, 1660 can play most AAA games in the market.  Lastly, the public is impressed with the Ryzen 5 3600 when paired with the GTX 1660 super.

The only downside they mention is that it does not have an integrated graphics processor. In my opinion, that’s not necessarily a disadvantage, since in that way you can add any GPU you want.

Also Great
#2 AMD Ryzen 7 2700X
9.5/10Our Score

The AMD Ryzen 7 2700X is an impressive processor for the GTX 1660. It is equipped with 8 cores and 16 threads that run at the base clock speed of 3.7 GHz. The Ryzen 7 2700X has an overclocking feature that allows you to boost this processor's speed up to 4.3 GHz. Additionally, it comes with 21 MB of cache. It supports Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes and dual-channel DDR4-2933. Interestingly, its base power consumption is 105 W and comes with a thermal solution.

Pros
  • It has an impressive overall performance.
  • It's heavily compatible with the 1660 super.
  • It comes with a CPU cooler and thermal paste.
  • It has an unlocked multiplier.
Cons
  • It does not have an integrated graphics card.

To begin with, the AMD Ryzen 7 2700X has 8 cores and 16 threads built that allow the processor to handle any workload.

Its high core and thread count ensures that the processor gives an outstanding multi-threaded performance. 

Next, its base clock speed is 3.7 GHz and can be boosted up to 4.3 GHz due to its unlocked multiplier. This allows you to play video games, edit videos, and run any multi-threaded applications without any signs of slowing down. 

The AMD Ryzen 7 2700X comes with 21 MB of cache for faster and smoother computer use. Its cache memory size improves resource use, latency reduction, and response time, making it excellent for rendering.

It supports Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes and dual-channel DDR4-2933 memory. Its specifications allow you to build a system that optimizes the 1660 Super. 

Furthermore, the AMD Ryzen 7 2700X has better memory support when compared to Intel processors in this list. 

An apparent downside to the AMD Ryzen 7 2700X is its high base power consumption. It consumes 105 W at its base clock speed and significantly increases temperatures when overclocked.

Thankfully, the AMD Ryzen 7 2700X comes with a thermal solution for thermoregulation. 

In addition, the AMD Ryzen 7 2700X is compatible with most AM4 motherboards – a type of motherboard available to most countries. Lastly, the AMD Ryzen 7 2700X is among the most talked-about processors in the market.

It has an excellent performance compatible with most GPUs in the market. Unfortunately, the processor does not have an integrated graphics card, similarly to the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 above.

Best Budget Choice
#3 Intel Core i5-9600K
9/10Our Score

The Intel Core i5-9600K is the best budget CPU for GTX 1660 in this list. It has 6 cores, 6 threads, and runs at the base clock speed of 3.70 GHz. Next, it has an unlocked multiplier and can be boosted up to 4.60 GHz. It has 9 MB of smart cache and supports Intel Optane memory. The 9600K supports Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes and DDR4-2666 memory. In addition, the i5-9600K comes with an integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630.

Pros
  • It has a solid performance.
  • It comes with an integrated graphics card.
  • It supports Optane memory.
  • It has hyperthreading technology.
Cons
  • It does not come with a thermal solution.

To start, the Intel Core i5-9600K is equipped with 6 cores and 6 threads that allow your mainstream desktop to handle any workload it is given.

It will enable you to render displays and play video games at competitive settings when paired with Nvidia’s 1660 Super. 

Next, the i5-9600K runs at the base frequency of 3.70 GHz. Given its variant, the Intel processor supports overclocking due to its unlocked multiplier.

The i5-9600K can be boosted up to 4.60 GHz when overclocked or when deemed necessary. 

It has 9MB of smart cache for better resource use, latency reduction, and response time. In addition, it supports Intel Optane memory which allows your build to perform at faster rates. 

Next, the Intel Core i5-9600K supports Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes and DDR4-2666 memory. Although lacking compared to others in this list, it’s still enough to keep the 1660 Super. 

Like the i5-10600, the i5-9600K has an integrated graphics card. It comes with Intel UHD Graphics 630, which allows you to display images up to 4K resolution.

If you’re saving money to buy the GTX 1660 super, you can use the UHD Graphics as an alternative. 

It consumes power at 95 W and even higher when overclocked. Unfortunately, it does not come with a thermal solution.  Nonetheless, people are still satisfied with their purchases.

It has fantastic performance and an overclocking feature. The only downside to this processor is the lack of thermal solution and the Z-motherboard requirement for overclocking.

I personally found that requirement frustrating because it limits your motherboard choice.

Plus, if you’re looking for other budget-friendly options, don’t miss our guides on the best CPUs under $200 and under $300.

#4 AMD Ryzen 5 1600
8.8/10Our Score

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600 is a considerable choice for most budget gamers when choosing a CPU for GTX 1660. It comes with 6 cores, 12 threads, and runs at the base frequency of 3.2 GHz. It has an unlocked multiplier that allows you to boost base clock frequencies to 3.6 GHz. It has 19 MB of cache for maximum performance. Next, it's power efficient and only consumes 65 W. It supports Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes, DDR4 - 2667, and AM4 chipset motherboards. Unfortunately, this AMD processor does not have integrated graphics.

Pros
  • Its specs offer power affordability.
  • It comes with a cooler.
  • It can be overclocked.
  • It's affordable.
Cons
  • It does not have an integrated graphics card.

First, the AMD Ryzen 5 1600 has 6 cores and 12 threads in its build. The 1600’s core and thread counts are why it provided a fantastic price to performance results in a multi-core benchmark test.

Next, this mid-range CPU runs at the base clock speed of 3.2 GHz. Like most AMD processors, the Ryzen 5 1600 has an unlocked multiplier.

Meaning, you will be able to overclock your CPU‘s clock speed for better multithreaded performance. The Ryzen 5 1600 can be boosted to higher clock speeds (3.6 GHz).

In fact, it can help you achieve high-performance gaming due to its clock rate.

This Ryzen CPU comes with 19 MB of cache for improved overall performance. Its cache memory size accounts for better resource use, latency reduction, and response time. 

Next, the Ryzen 5 1600 supports Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes and DDR4-2667 memory. Although lacking compared to the Ryzen 5 3600, the 1600’s specifications can still help you efficiently utilize the GTX 1660 Super. 

Additionally, this Ryzen CPU is compatible with any AM4 chipset motherboard. Meaning it won’t be hard for you to look for compatible motherboards. Furthermore, it is capable of supporting older motherboards.

It is a power-efficient PCU that only consumes 65 W at its base frequency. In addition, it comes with a bundled cooler and heat sink. 

Lastly, consumers are satisfied with the Ryzen 5 1600. Its specifications and impressive performance are compatible with the GTX 1660 super.

However, customers mentioned being dismayed with its performance in lightly threaded applications and lacking integrated GPU.

#5 Intel® Core™ i5-10600
8.5/10Our Score

The Intel Core i5-10600 is considerably an excellent CPU for GTX 1660. It has 6 cores, 12 threads, and runs at the base frequency of 3.30 GHz. Its clock speed can be boosted to 4.80 GHz, thanks to Intel's frequency boosting and hyperthreading technologies. Moreover, it has 12 MB of Smart Cache and supports DDR4-2666 along with Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes. It's power-efficient and comes with a bundled cooler. Lastly, it comes with Intel UHD Graphics 630 to keep a good display on your monitor.

Pros
  • It can handle any workload.
  • It has an excellent performance.
  • It comes with an integrated GPU.
  • It supports hyperthreading.
Cons
  • It only supports Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes.

First, the Intel Core i5-10600 has 6 cores, and 12 threads build. Its build provides excellent performance to play video games in high settings.

It’s a good CPU that can satisfy your high-end gaming desire by being able to play latest AAA titles without any hitch.

It runs at the base frequency of 3.30 GHz. It can be boosted up to 4.80 GHz due to Intel’s frequency boosting and hyperthreading technology. Meaning, your computer will operate at exceptional rates. 

Isn’t that great?

Next, this Intel CPU comes with 12 MB of Intel Smart Cache. In addition, the i5-10600 supports Intel Optane memory for faster execution time and boot-ups. 

The Intel Core i5-10600 supports Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes and dual-channel DDR4-2666. In addition, it is compatible with most Intel 500 and 400 chipset motherboards. 

Next, the Intel Core i5-10600 is an energy-efficient processor that consumes 65 W at its base frequency. In addition, it comes with a cooler for better system temperatures. 

The i5-10600 has an integrated graphics card. It is equipped with Intel UHD Graphics 630, allowing your mainstream desktop to display images up to 4k resolution. Even if you do not pair this processor with the 1660 super, you will still play most games. 

Lastly, customer opinion is divided on the i5-10600. On the one hand, it has incredible specifications and performance. On the other hand, it only supports Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes and requires a new motherboard when upgrading from a 9th-gen processor.

Sure enough, it all depends on your needs, budget and PC setup.

#6 Intel Core i5-10400F
8.2/10Our Score

Another Intel processor in this list is the Intel Core i5-10400F. It is built with 6 cores and 12 threads. It runs at the base clock speed of 2.90GHz and can be boosted up to 4.30 GHz. It has 12 MB of smart cache and supports Intel Optane memory. Aside from this, it supports Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes and dual-channel DDR4-2666. Lastly, it only consumes 65 W and comes with a bundled thermal solution. 

Pros
  • It has a solid performance.
  • It comes with a heat sink.
  • It is energy efficient.
  • It has hyperthreading technology.
Cons
  • It does not have an integrated graphics card.

First, the i5-10400F comes with 6 cores and 12 threads that allow the processor to give an outstanding performance. When paired with the GTX 1660, the i5-10400F enables you to run any multi-threaded applications. 

Next, the i5-10400F runs at the base frequency of 2.90 GHz. Although its multiplier is locked, the i5-10400F’S clock speed can be boosted up to 4.30 GHz due to its Intel frequency boosting and hyperthreading technologies.

This means that you will be able to play video games, edit videos, do coding work, and do other activities without any performance or delay issues. 

It comes with 12 MB of smart cache and supports Intel Optane memory. Intel’s smart cache accounts for better resource use, latency reduction, and response time. While Optane memory accelerates memory writing and other related processes. 

Next, the Intel Core i5-10400F supports Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes and dual-channel DDR4-2666. In addition, this Intel processor requires users to buy LGA 1200 motherboards to use the processor. 

The Intel Core i5-10400F is a power-saving processor. It only consumes 65 W at its base performance. When boosted, its temperature may reach higher numbers, but its bundled thermal solution allows you to regulate your processor’s thermals.

Unfortunately, the i5-10400F does not come with an integrated graphics card. Thankfully, it is highly compatible with the GTX 1660.  Lastly, people are impressed with i5-10400F. It’s comparably cheaper than the 10400 and also power-efficient.

Sadly, customers see the lack of an integrated graphics card and a need for an LGA 1200 motherboard, which is a disadvantage to this processor.

#7 Intel Core i9-9900K
8/10Our Score

The Intel Core i9-9900K is built with 8 cores and 16 threads. It runs up to 5.0 GHz, thanks to its unlocked multiplier and Intel frequency boosting technologies. In addition, it supports DDR4-2666 and Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes. It comes with an integrated graphics card and only consumes 95 W.

Pros
  • It has an impressive single- and multi-threaded performance.
  • It supports Intel Optane memory.
  • It has an unlocked multiplier.
  • It has hyperthreading technology.
Cons
  • It has high power consumption under heavy load.
  • It can get worryingly hot if there's no adequate thermal solution.

First, the Intel Core i9-9900K boasts eight cores and sixteen threads in its build, which allows you to handle any type of workload. The i9-9900 K’s core and thread counts will enable you to cater to the needs of the 1660 Super. 

Running at a base clock speed of 3.60 GHz, the i9-9900K can process data at incredible speeds. It has an overclock feature and other Intel frequency boosting technologies that increase its clock speed up to 5.0 GHz. 

The Intel Core i9-9900K has 16 MB of Intel Smart Cache for better resource use, reduced latency, and better response time. 

Next, the Intel Core i9-9900K supports Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes and DDR4-2666 memory. Compared to AMD processors in this list, the i9-9900K is lacking when it comes to its memory support. Regardless, it’s able to utilize the 1660 Super video card efficiently.  

In addition, the Intel Core i9-9900K supports Intel Optane memory for faster memory processing.  

The Intel Core i9-9900K, at its base frequency, consumes 95 W. When overclocked or given a heavy workload, the i9-9900 K’s temperature can get significantly hot.

Since it does not have a thermal solution, you will need to buy a capable thermal solution to maintain its clock speed and prevent damage. 

The i9-9900K has an impressive single-threaded and multi-threaded performance when it comes to performance. Thanks to its improved build and Intel’s hyperthreading technology, it can compete with its AMD competitors.  It handles multitasking with ease.

The Intel Core i9-9900K is well-received among buyers and enthusiasts. Many have praised its compatibility with a wide range of GPUs in the market.

On the other hand, some consumers mentioned that its cooling requirement and power consumption are downsides to the processor.

Crucial Features to look after when buying a CPU for the GTX 1660 super

Given the technological development we have today, any CPU can utilize any type of graphics card. In our case, any good CPU can use the GTX 1660 super for graphics processing.

A man is considering components for assembling a gaming computer. Video card ROG Strix GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Advanced Edition 6GB. RAM HyperX Fury 8GB DDR4 RAM. Samsung 860 Evo 500GB SSD Hard Drive

However, the real question that we need to ask is how our CPU compliments our GPU. Any CPU can run any kind of GPU. Still, only selected CPUs can efficiently use a particular type of GPU. 

Here are features that you need to look out for when choosing a CPU that’s compatible with your GPU: 

Cores and Threads

The CPU’s core and thread counts are the number one thing to look for when buying a computer processor for your build.

The more cores and threads there are, the more capable of processing various computing tasks, including utilizing your GPU.

Watch this video for a better understanding of what cores and threads are.

Clock Speed

If a CPU’s cores and threads are ways to determine processing capability. A CPU’s clock speed or frequency is used to determine how fast it can process computing tasks.

In our context, the higher the clock speed, the faster it can render images using our GPU. 

Overclock ability

A processor’s overclock ability tells you how much you can push your processor to its limit. You can manually boost its base clock frequency when a processor has an unlocked multiplier.

As a result, you get faster processing rates and higher frame rates per second because it swiftly utilizes your GPU. 

Power Consumption

The higher the power consumption, the higher the system temperature. As your computer gets hotter, both the performance of your CPU and GPU are affected.

Computer fan with high temperature

A good processor for your GPU should be able to efficiently use power. In addition, a CPU cooler and thermal paste help alleviate increased temperatures. 

Connectivity and Memory support

Another feature contributing to high FPS and processing speeds is the processor’s ability to support PC components and faster RAM sticks.

The more PCIe lanes and the better the RAM memory support is, the faster the GPU can access information and display it on screen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How important is a CPU for gaming?

The Central Processing Unit or CPU is essentially the brain of your build. Without it, your computer will not run at all. The CPU processes information and provides output based on this. For example, if you’re playing Valorant and want to choose a character. You click on Sova. The CPU processes this information and sends out data that you clicked on Sova. Once Valorant’s server receives the data, it equips Sova for your account. Without a CPU, the relay of information will not happen at all.
Hence, the need to pick the best CPU for your build.
For more information about the importance of CPUs in gaming, check this article out.

Intel or AMD: What’s the best processor for a GTX 1660 Super

Our review and testing have shown that the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 stands out the most out of numerous processors in the market. In our review, six-core processors, both AMD and Intel, can use Nvidia’s 1660. 
However, the performance and specifications of AMD Ryzen 5 3600 trump the Intel processors in our list. For this reason alone, we would say that the best CPU for this GPU is from AMD. 

Do Ryzen 5 3600 and GTX 1660 Super bottleneck?

At their base performance, there is no bottleneck. The AMD Ryzen 5 3600’s specifications provide enough liberty for the GTX 1660 Super to spread its wings. The processor’s unlocked multiplier allows you to push the GPU’s clock rates for better performance and higher FPS. Bottlenecking is only at 1-2% when pressed to its limits. It truly is the best CPU for GTX 1660 super.

Can a dual-core multithreaded Athlon CPU use the Nvidia’s 1660 Super?

Yes, but you’ll encounter serious bottleneck issues. Given its processing requirements, a CPU with two cores would have difficulty utilizing any modern video cards. Multi-core processors perform better than dual-core processors.

What CPU goes best with GTX 1660 Super?

Given their compatibility, the best CPU that best compliments the GPU is the AMD Ryzen 5 3600. Its high core count, thread count, and fast clock rate allow the processor to efficiently utilize the GTX 1660.

What’s the “GTX 1660 Super” power consumption?

The GTX 1660 Super consumes 120 W at its base performance. Meaning anyone using a GTX 970 or 960 can easily upgrade to a 1600 series video card without worrying about their power supply. With this in mind, the PSU of your build should cater to your component’s power consumption. A good PSU for a budget gaming PC should be somewhere around 600 W to 740W. If you plan to overclock, you need to keep your system power supply high enough to handle strenuous workloads.

Do you need a strong cooler for your CPU?

Definitely, an inadequate cooler can be a limiting factor for CPUs and graphics cards, especially when using an old processor. CPUs with similar performance can vary significantly due to the type of cooler they are equipped with. The same principle also applies to graphics cards.
Consider looking for a cooler when buying a CPU for your build.
To know more about the importance of cooling in your CPU, check this article out.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, our review and testing have shown that the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 is the best CPU for GTX 1660 super. It can provide fantastic performance and give your GPU enough space to push its limits.

Whether for gaming or video editing, the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 can handle any kind of workload while efficiently utilizing the GTX 1660 Super.

Top Choice
#1 AMD Ryzen 5 3600
10/10Our Score

The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 is the best CPU for GTX 1660 super. It is equipped with 6 cores, 12 threads, and runs at the base frequency of 3.6 GHz. It has an overclocking feature to boost your base frequency to 4.2 GHz. It has an increased IPC and better thermal regulation, thanks to its Zen 2 architecture. It comes with a bundled cooler, supports Gen 4.0 PCIe lanes, and dual-channel DDR4 - 3200. In addition, it has 35 MB of cache.

Comparing the Ryzen 5 3600 to other processors in our list provided better performance results in our testing. It gave higher frame rates without bottleneck when paired with the GTX 1660 Super.

When choosing a CPU for your GPU, always remember to look at the features we mentioned in our buying guide. Take note of its compatibility with your chosen GPU.

This way, you avoid facing bottleneck issues or frame-dropping issues when editing videos or playing games.