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The GTX 1060. The mere mention of these three letters and four numbers might conjure up images of a bygone era in PC gaming. While it’s true that this graphics card isn’t the newest kid on the block, it still holds a place, especially when considering the world of gaming laptops. Once a staple in mid-range gaming machines, laptops with the GTX 1060 offer an intriguing proposition in [Current Year]. Are they dinosaurs on the verge of extinction, or are they still diamonds in the rough, offering surprising value for gamers on a budget? This article aims to explore just that, helping you decide if a laptop with a 1060 GTX is the right choice for you.
Let’s dive into the world of laptops with the GTX 1060. The purpose of this deep dive is to provide potential buyers with comprehensive information, so they can make a sound decision. Even though newer GPUs are available in the market, the GTX 1060 is still a strong contender. It provides a combination of affordability and impressive performance, especially in certain conditions. Don’t dismiss it before knowing all the facts.
Therefore, is buying a laptop with a GTX 1060 in the current year a smart decision? The answer is complex, involving advantages and disadvantages. We’ll explore this in detail to help you determine if it aligns with your needs and financial circumstances.
The Advantages of Choosing a GTX 1060 Laptop Today
One of the most compelling reasons to consider a laptop with 1060 GTX in today’s market is simply the price. With newer GPUs dominating the high-end segment, laptops equipped with the 1060 have become significantly more affordable. You can often find these machines at a fraction of the price of their modern counterparts, making them accessible to budget-conscious gamers and students. This lower price point opens up a whole new world of accessibility for those who want a dedicated graphics card.
But affordability wouldn’t matter if the performance wasn’t up to par. Luckily, the GTX 1060 still delivers a respectable gaming experience. It excels at playing games at 1080p resolution with medium to high settings. Games like Fortnite, Overwatch, League of Legends, and many other popular titles run smoothly on a laptop with 1060 GTX. You can expect frame rates that provide a solid and enjoyable gaming experience. While it might struggle with the latest AAA titles at ultra settings, you can still enjoy a vast library of games without breaking the bank. Even older games such as Witcher 3 can still be played at decent settings.
Furthermore, the technology within the GTX 1060 is tried and tested. The drivers have been refined over years, resulting in a stable and reliable gaming experience. There won’t be driver issues, and the maturity of the hardware will likely provide a more secure experience. This maturity can be reassuring compared to the more recent hardware which can suffer from early adoption issues.
Finding a laptop with a GTX 1060 isn’t difficult either. The used market is saturated with these machines, offering a wide range of options to choose from. You can find various brands, models, and configurations to suit your preferences and budget. This wide availability is not always something you can find for more modern cards as people are less likely to let them go.
Another advantage is their size and portability. Compared to newer, more powerful gaming laptops, models with the GTX 1060 are often thinner and lighter. This makes them easier to carry around, making them ideal for students or anyone who needs a laptop for both gaming and work. This balance between portability and power is an alluring combination.
Finally, gaming isn’t the only thing that the 1060 handles well. Tasks like video editing, photo editing, and other graphically intensive applications can also be tackled by a laptop with a GTX 1060. Therefore, if you are doing a lot of editing alongside gaming, this could be a great choice.
The Drawbacks of Buying a Laptop with a GTX 1060
Despite its advantages, it’s crucial to acknowledge the downsides of purchasing a laptop with a GTX 1060 in the current era. The most obvious drawback is the fact that it’s outdated technology. It’s not the latest generation of GPU, and it won’t perform as well as newer cards like the RTX series or the latest AMD Radeon offerings. Demanding the latest AAA titles could prove too much for a laptop with 1060 GTX.
Another disadvantage is the lack of Ray Tracing and DLSS. These technologies enhance the visual fidelity and performance of modern games. These are only available on newer graphics cards. The absence of these features limits the visual capabilities of the GTX 1060, which may be noticeable in newer games.
Buying a laptop with 1060 GTX means you may have to compromise on future-proofing. While it can handle current games reasonably well, it won’t be ideal for playing the newest AAA titles at high settings for the next few years. As games become more demanding, the GTX 1060 may struggle to keep up.
The battery life of gaming laptops, in general, is notorious, so a laptop with a GTX 1060 will likely have a limited battery. Don’t expect to play games for hours on battery power. This can be a significant limitation if you need a laptop for on-the-go gaming.
If you are going the used market route, there are risks to consider. The potential for wear and tear, battery degradation, and other issues is higher when buying used. Make sure to inspect the laptop thoroughly before making a purchase. Thoroughly check for any problems.
Finally, laptops are not known for their upgradeability. In most cases, the graphics card is soldered to the motherboard, making it impossible to upgrade. Once you buy a laptop with a GTX 1060, you’re stuck with it for the lifespan of the machine. The limited upgrade options might be problematic for future needs.
Essential Features to Consider When Buying a Laptop with 1060 GTX
When looking for a laptop with 1060 GTX, consider the processor. A strong CPU prevents the graphics card from being held back. An Intel Core i7 (seventh or eighth generation or newer) or an equivalent AMD Ryzen processor is recommended. The CPU will ensure that other components can work at their best.
Next, RAM is essential. A minimum of eight gigabytes is necessary, and sixteen gigabytes is even better for multitasking and future-proofing. Enough RAM enables multiple applications to run at the same time, and will help futureproof the machine.
SSDs are vital for quick loading times. Consider purchasing a laptop with 1060 GTX that comes with a combination of SSDs for the operating system, alongside an additional hard disk drive for additional storage. This will maximize the computer’s performance.
The display’s properties also count. A 1080p display will be ideal for GTX 1060. Consider also the refresh rate, 60Hz is standard, but a 120Hz or 144Hz will provide a smoother gaming experience. Furthermore, consider the panel type: IPS displays give better viewing angles and accurate colors.
Keep cooling in mind too. A good cooling system is crucial to prevent overheating and performance throttling. Read reviews about the machine’s cooling performance before buying. This will help your laptop stay at its peak.
Consider its connectivity. Do you need ethernet ports, HDMI ports, or USB? Be sure that the laptop you are buying meets your requirements. Connectivity is especially important if you are using peripherals.
Finally, consider the build quality. Read reviews about the product’s build quality and quality of the keyboard. This will enable you to buy a laptop with a GTX 1060 that you will find comfortable.
Recommended GTX 1060 Laptop Models
ASUS ROG Strix GL503GE: This model offers a great balance of performance and features at an affordable price. It’s a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers who want a reliable gaming laptop. It offers a good price to performance ratio.
Dell Inspiron 7577: The Dell Inspiron 7577 offers a balance between gaming and everyday use. It’s not as flashy as some other gaming laptops, but it’s a solid performer with good build quality.
MSI GS63VR Stealth Pro: If you prioritize a thin and light design, the MSI GS63VR Stealth Pro is a good option. It’s one of the thinnest and lightest gaming laptops with a GTX 1060. It has good performance for its size.
Buying a Used Laptop with 1060 GTX: Tips
Carefully inspect the laptop. Look for signs of wear and tear, physical damage, and liquid spills. This will give you information about how the computer was taken care of.
Test the GPU. Try running benchmarking software, and play a demanding game in order to check for any performance problems. This will help you confirm if the components are working as intended.
Check battery health by using battery check applications. That way, you can be sure that the battery hasn’t degraded too much.
Ask about its history. Has it been repaired before? How long was it used? These are important questions.
Negotiate the price considering the model’s condition and age.
Buy from reputable sellers. Consider those that come with returns.
Alternatives to Buying a Laptop with a GTX 1060
Newer, better-performing cards can be purchased for a higher price. Some great options would be the RTX 3050, RTX 3050 Ti, and RTX 3060. Alternatively, consider AMD cards such as the Radeon RX 6600M. These will offer a better gaming performance. However, expect to pay more. If you don’t need dedicated GPUs, consider integrated graphics. These have come a long way, and can provide adequate performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, is buying a laptop with 1060 GTX still a good choice in the current year? It depends. While it’s not the most powerful card on the market, it offers a compelling combination of affordability and decent performance, which may benefit budget-conscious gamers who don’t necessarily need the latest and greatest graphics. If you play older games or are willing to compromise on graphics settings, a GTX 1060 laptop can still be a great value. However, if you want to play the latest AAA titles at ultra settings or require advanced features like ray tracing, you’ll need to look at newer, more expensive options. Before making a purchase, thoroughly research different models and compare prices to ensure you are getting the best deal for your needs.
