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MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming Review | 118 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£250
  • VRAM: 6 GB
  • Memory bus width: 192 bit
  • Thermal Design Power (TDP): 120 W

MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming review. Compare 118 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among graphics cards and if it is worth buying.

4.6

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the graphics card's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best graphics cards on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.3

Technical Score

10.0%

7.9

User score

Poor
4.3

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the graphics card's technical performance, covering key areas such as gaming and rendering performance, ray tracing, memory configuration, power efficiency, cooling, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare graphics cards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

44.0%

3.0

Performance

24.0%

2.6

Memory

12.0%

8.4

Power & Cooling

11.0%

6.3

Platform & Features

5.0%

5.8

Design

4.0%

8.1

Connectivity & Media

Poor
7.9

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the graphics card.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a graphics card performs in real use and how reliable it is in terms of performance, temperatures, noise, stability, and long-term ownership.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

5.8

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(92)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

Very good
  • 6.5
    Gaming

    Score components:

    45.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    2.2

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 5.9
    Video editing

    Score components:

    35.0%

    7.0

    AV1 encode

    30.0%

    2.2

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    15.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 6.5
    1080p

    Score components:

    55.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    2.2

    VRAM

    10.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 6.2
    1440p

    Score components:

    50.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    30.0%

    2.2

    VRAM

    15.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 6.0
    4K

    Score components:

    40.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    35.0%

    2.2

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming is a mid-range graphics card built on NVIDIA’s 16nm Pascal architecture, featuring 1,280 CUDA cores and 6GB of GDDR5 memory on a 192-bit bus. It operates with a base clock of 1,506 MHz and a boost clock up to 1,746 MHz in OC Mode, requiring a single 8-pin power connector and a recommended 400W PSU. Key characteristics include the Twin Frozr VI thermal design with dual Torx 2.0 fans and Zero Frozr technology, which halts fans during low-load tasks for silent operation. Its primary pros are excellent 1080p gaming performance, a robust factory overclock, and a high-quality metal backplate for structural rigidity. Notable cons include its large physical footprint which may not fit in compact cases, its lack of SLI support for multi-GPU setups, and the absence of modern features like hardware-accelerated ray tracing found in newer generations.

Technical Specifications of MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the graphics card's technical performance, covering key areas such as gaming and rendering performance, ray tracing, memory configuration, power efficiency, cooling, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare graphics cards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

44.0%

3.0

Performance

24.0%

2.6

Memory

12.0%

8.4

Power & Cooling

11.0%

6.3

Platform & Features

5.0%

5.8

Design

4.0%

8.1

Connectivity & Media

4.3
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a technical score of 4.27 points, which is lower than that of 87.1% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the graphics card.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a graphics card performs in real use and how reliable it is in terms of performance, temperatures, noise, stability, and long-term ownership.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

5.8

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(92)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

7.9
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a user score of 7.91 points, which is lower than that of 77.6% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the graphics card.
When it matters: When you prefer a graphics card that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
5.8
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a popularity of 5.8 points, which is higher than 64.7% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the graphics card's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a graphics card that offers a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.6

Overall score

40.0%

9.2

Price

6.0
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a quality-to-price ratio of 6 points, which is lower than 82% of products in this category.
3DMark Time Spy benchmark score
What it is: Benchmark result from 3DMark Time Spy, a synthetic DirectX 12 test often used as a quick gaming-performance reference.
When it matters: When you need a fast rough performance sort before digging into game-specific reviews and frame-rate data.

Importance: LOW

?
3DMark Port Royal score
What it is: Benchmark result from 3DMark Port Royal, a synthetic test focused on ray tracing performance.
When it matters: When ray tracing matters in the games you actually play and you want one quick way to separate stronger and weaker RT cards.

Importance: LOW

N/A
PassMark (G3D) result
What it is: Overall GPU performance score in PassMark G3D benchmark
When it matters: When you need one broad score to sort cards into rough performance tiers.

Importance: LOW

?
PassMark (DirectCompute) result
What it is: PassMark score for DirectCompute performance tests
When it matters: When compute workloads matter alongside gaming performance.

Importance: LOW

?
Floating-point performance
What it is: Theoretical floating-point compute performance of the GPU.
When it matters: When rendering, AI, or heavy compute work needs strong single-precision throughput.

Importance: LOW

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VRAM
What it is: Total video memory available on the graphics card
When it matters: When you play at high settings, use texture mods, or work with large creative projects.

Importance: HIGH

6 GB
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has 6 GB of VRAM, which is less than 82.7% of graphics cards and equal to 5.1% of graphics cards.
Memory type
What it is: Type of graphics memory used (GDDR6, HBM2e, etc.)
When it matters: When memory technology is part of the buying decision because it affects bandwidth class, power use, and product positioning.

Importance: LOW

GDDR5
GDDR version
What it is: Generation of GDDR memory used by the graphics card.
When it matters: When you want to separate older memory generations from newer ones before comparing bandwidth, power behavior, and market tier.

Importance: LOW

GDDR5
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming uses GDDR5 memory, which is older than on 85% of graphics cards and equal to 13.2% of graphics cards.
Memory bus width
What it is: Width of the memory interface bus in bits
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance at higher resolutions, heavier texture settings, or ray-traced workloads that stress memory traffic.

Importance: HIGH

192 bit
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming uses a 192 bit memory bus, which is narrower than that of 50.5% of graphics cards and equal to that of 18.8% of graphics cards.
Maximum memory bandwidth
What it is: Maximum data transfer rate between GPU and its memory
When it matters: When 4K gaming, ray tracing, or creator work can choke a slower memory subsystem.

Importance: HIGH

192.2 GB/s
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming reaches 192.2 GB/s memory bandwidth, which is lower than that of 87% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.9% of graphics cards.
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PCI Express (PCIe) version
What it is: Version of PCI Express interface supported
When it matters: When you are pairing the card with an older motherboard and want to avoid leaving bandwidth or future compatibility on the table.

Importance: LOW

3.0
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming supports PCIe 3.0, which is older than on 77.6% of graphics cards and equal to 20.3% of graphics cards.
PCIe lanes
What it is: Number of PCI Express lanes used for communication
When it matters: When limited lane width could bottleneck the card in some systems.

Importance: LOW

x16
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming uses x16 PCIe lanes, which is more than 31.5% of graphics cards and equal to 68.6% of graphics cards.
DirectX version
What it is: Highest supported DirectX API version
When it matters: When you play newer Windows games that depend on the latest graphics features.

Importance: LOW

?
Vulkan version
What it is: Highest supported Vulkan API version
When it matters: When modern games, emulators, or creative apps lean on Vulkan support.

Importance: LOW

1.4
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming supports Vulkan 1.4, which is more advanced than on 26.6% of graphics cards and equal to 73.4% of graphics cards.
OpenGL version
What it is: Highest supported OpenGL API version
When it matters: When older games or pro apps still depend on OpenGL compatibility.

Importance: LOW

4.5
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming supports OpenGL 4.5, which is older than on 95.2% of graphics cards and equal to 3.3% of graphics cards.
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Max displays supported
What it is: Total number of external displays supported simultaneously
When it matters: When you run a multi-monitor desk for sim racing, trading, or editing.

Importance: LOW

4
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming supports up to 4 displays, which is more than 7.8% of graphics cards and equal to 89.2% of graphics cards.
Max digital resolution
What it is: Maximum supported digital display resolution
When it matters: When you plan to drive 4K or 8K panels at their native resolution.

Importance: LOW

?
DisplayPort outputs
What it is: Number of DisplayPort video outputs
When it matters: When your setup needs several high-refresh monitors without adapters.

Importance: LOW

3
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming offers 3 DisplayPort outputs, which is more than 20.9% of graphics cards and equal to 77.3% of graphics cards.
DisplayPort version
What it is: Version of DisplayPort standard supported
When it matters: When your monitor setup depends on newer DisplayPort features for higher refresh rates, higher resolution, or better cable flexibility.

Importance: LOW

1.4
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming supports DisplayPort 1.4, which is older than on 77.3% of graphics cards and equal to 16.2% of graphics cards.
DisplayPort link rates
What it is: Supported data link rates for DisplayPort connections
When it matters: When you are pushing high resolution and refresh rate over DisplayPort.

Importance: LOW

?
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Thermal Design Power (TDP)
What it is: Typical power consumption under full load (TDP)
When it matters: When you need a realistic idea of power draw before choosing a PSU or case.

Importance: MEDIUM

120 W
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a TDP of 120 W, which is lower than that of 83.2% of graphics cards and equal to that of 2.6% of graphics cards.
Power consumption while under peak load
What it is: Peak power draw of the graphics card under maximum load.
When it matters: When transient-heavy gaming loads could stress your power supply.

Importance: LOW

125 W
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming draws 125 W under peak load, which is lower than 83.6% of graphics cards and equal to 0.7% of graphics cards.
Recommended PSU wattage
What it is: Recommended wattage of the system power supply
When it matters: When you are checking whether your current power supply is enough.

Importance: LOW

400 W
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming recommends a 400 W PSU, which is lower than that of 91.7% of graphics cards and equal to that of 2.5% of graphics cards.
Board power limit
What it is: Maximum configurable power limit for the GPU board
When it matters: When you care about how far the card can be pushed through tuning or factory power settings.

Importance: LOW

?
PCIe power spec
What it is: PCIe power delivery specification followed
When it matters: When you are checking whether the slot and external cables match the card's intended power-delivery standard.

Importance: LOW

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Size
What it is: Physical size of the GPU card
When it matters: When you need the card to fit a compact case without blocking nearby hardware.

Importance: LOW

?
Length
What it is: Physical length of the GPU card
When it matters: When front radiators or drive cages leave only limited GPU clearance.

Importance: LOW

277 mm
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming is 277 mm long, which is shorter than 55.3% of graphics cards and equal in length to 0.3% of graphics cards.
Height
What it is: Physical height of the GPU card
When it matters: When side panels, brackets, or tight case layouts reduce vertical clearance.

Importance: LOW

140 mm
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming is 140 mm tall, which is taller than 76.4% of graphics cards and equal in height to 5.6% of graphics cards.
Slot width
What it is: Number of PCIe slots occupied by the card
When it matters: When you need room for another PCIe card or better airflow under the GPU.

Importance: LOW

?
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the graphics card
When it matters: When sag, bracket support, or shipping stress matters in your build.

Importance: LOW

1,017 g
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming weighs 1017 g, which is heavier than 52.6% of graphics cards and equal in weight to 0.2% of graphics cards.
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MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming vs the average graphics card

  • 38.5% lower PSU requirement
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (400 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.
    What it is: Recommended wattage of the system power supply
    When it matters: When you are checking whether your current power supply is enough.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (400 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.400 W vs 650 W
  • 44.2% lower TDP
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (120 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
    What it is: Typical power consumption under full load (TDP)
    When it matters: When you need a realistic idea of power draw before choosing a PSU or case.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (120 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.120 W vs 215 W
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
    What it is: Number of DVI display outputs available
    When it matters: When you still use an older monitor that depends on DVI.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.1 vs 0
  • 2.12x cheaper
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming is cheaper than the average graphics card (£250 vs £530).
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming is cheaper than the average graphics card (£250 vs £530).£250 vs £530
  • 7 dB quieter under load
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower load noise level than the average graphics card (28 dB vs 35 dB). The average graphics card has a load noise level of 35 dB.
    What it is: Noise level produced by the graphics card while under load.
    When it matters: When the PC sits near you and fan noise matters during play.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower load noise level than the average graphics card (28 dB vs 35 dB). The average graphics card has a load noise level of 35 dB.28 dB vs 35 dB
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
  • 44.2% lower TDP
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (120 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
  • 38.5% lower PSU requirement
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (400 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.
  • 7 dB quieter under load
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower load noise level than the average graphics card (28 dB vs 35 dB). The average graphics card has a load noise level of 35 dB.

Total
Overall
Connectivity & Media
Power & Cooling
  • 30.2% lower boost clock speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,746 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.
  • 30 fewer compute units
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (10 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
  • 104 fewer TMUs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (80 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
  • 80.9% lower FP32 performance
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower FP32 performance than the average graphics card (4.4 TFLOPS vs 22.86 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP32 performance of 22.86 TFLOPS.
  • 20.9% lower base clock speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,518 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.
  • 16 fewer ROPs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer ROPs than the average graphics card (48 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.
  • 99.8% lower FP16 performance
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower FP16 performance than the average graphics card (0.1 TFLOPS vs 29.5 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP16 performance of 29.5 TFLOPS.
  • 70.6% lower FP64 performance
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower FP64 performance than the average graphics card (0.1 TFLOPS vs 0.4651 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP64 performance of 0.4651 TFLOPS.
  • 3,072 fewer FP32 units
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer FP32 units than the average graphics card (1,280 vs 4,352). The average graphics card has 4,352 FP32 units.
  • 6 GB less VRAM
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (6 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
  • 64 bit narrower memory bus
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a narrower memory bus than the average graphics card (192 bit vs 256 bit). The average graphics card has a memory bus width of 256 bit.
  • 57.1% lower memory bandwidth
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (192.2 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.
  • 57.9% slower memory speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (8,008 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.
  • 95.3% smaller L2 cache
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer L2 cache than the average graphics card (1.5 MB vs 32 MB). The average graphics card has 32 MB L2 cache.
  • 62.5% smaller L1 cache
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer L1 cache than the average graphics card (48 vs 128). The average graphics card has 128 L1 cache.
  • 3.2x larger process node
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a higher process node than the average graphics card (16 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.
  • Older PCIe version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).
  • 7 older
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming was released earlier than the average graphics card (2,016 vs 2,023).
  • No mesh shaders
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming does not support mesh shaders, the average graphics card does.
  • Worse SAM support
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming offers worse SAM support than the average graphics card (no vs yes).
  • Older encoder generation
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming uses an older encoder generation than the average graphics card (6 vs 8). The average graphics card uses encoder generation 8.
  • No sampler feedback
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming does not support sampler feedback, the average graphics card does.
  • Older OpenGL version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming supports an older OpenGL version than the average graphics card (4.5 vs 4.6).
  • 79.9% fewer transistors
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer transistors than the average graphics card (4,400 million vs 21,900 million). The average graphics card has 21,900 million transistors.
  • No AV1 encoding
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No AV1 decoding
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming does not support AV1 decoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No DSC support
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming does not support DSC, the average graphics card does.
  • Older DisplayPort version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming supports an older DisplayPort version than the average graphics card (1.4 vs 1.4a).
  • Older HDMI version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming supports an older HDMI version than the average graphics card (2.0b vs 2.1).
  • Older HDCP version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming supports an older HDCP version than the average graphics card (2.2 vs 2.3).
  • 1 fewer fans
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).
  • 12 °C higher idle temperature
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a higher idle temperature than the average graphics card (50 °C vs 38 °C). The average graphics card has an idle temperature of 38 °C.
  • 13 mm higher card profile
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming is taller than the average graphics card (140 mm vs 127 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 127 mm.
  • 30.2% lower boost clock speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,746 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.
    What it is: Maximum boost frequency the GPU can reach under load
    When it matters: When you want a rough idea of peak advertised frequency, while knowing real sustained clocks still depend on cooling and power limits.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,746 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.1746 MHz vs 2500 MHz
  • 30 fewer compute units
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (10 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
    What it is: Total number of shader multiprocessors or compute units
    When it matters: When you want a better sense of the GPU's overall parallel hardware resources before relying on game benchmarks alone.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (10 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.10 vs 40
  • 3.2x larger process node
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a higher process node than the average graphics card (16 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.
    What it is: Size of the manufacturing process in nanometers
    When it matters: When process node differences may affect power, heat, and overall efficiency.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a higher process node than the average graphics card (16 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.16 nm vs 5 nm
  • 6 GB less VRAM
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (6 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
    What it is: Total video memory available on the graphics card
    When it matters: When you play at high settings, use texture mods, or work with large creative projects.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (6 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.6 GB vs 12 GB
  • 64 bit narrower memory bus
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a narrower memory bus than the average graphics card (192 bit vs 256 bit). The average graphics card has a memory bus width of 256 bit.
    What it is: Width of the memory interface bus in bits
    When it matters: When you care about steadier performance at higher resolutions, heavier texture settings, or ray-traced workloads that stress memory traffic.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a narrower memory bus than the average graphics card (192 bit vs 256 bit). The average graphics card has a memory bus width of 256 bit.192 bit vs 256 bit
  • 104 fewer TMUs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (80 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
    What it is: Total count of texture mapping units on the GPU
    When it matters: When texture-heavy gaming performance matters and you want extra hardware context behind texture-rate claims.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (80 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.80 vs 184
  • 1 fewer fans
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).
    What it is: Total number of cooling fans
    When it matters: When you compare cooler designs and want one more clue about thermal potential.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).2 vs 3
  • 57.1% lower memory bandwidth
    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (192.2 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.
    What it is: Maximum data transfer rate between GPU and its memory
    When it matters: When 4K gaming, ray tracing, or creator work can choke a slower memory subsystem.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming has a lower memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (192.2 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.192.2 GB/s vs 448 GB/s
Total
Overall
Performance
Memory
Platform & Features
Connectivity & Media
Power & Cooling
Design

Graphic comparison of MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
92 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming?

  • Near-silent operation even under heavy load due to Twin Frozr VI cooler
  • Excellent 1080p gaming performance, handling most titles at high/ultra settings
  • Strong build quality featuring a solid metal backplate to prevent PCB sagging
  • High overclocking headroom with stable performance exceeding 2,100 MHz
  • Zero Frozr technology keeps fans off during idle or light tasks for silent desktop use
  • Lower power consumption (120W TDP) making it efficient and easy to power

What customers dislike about MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming?

  • Large physical dimensions (277mm length) may not fit in smaller or compact cases
  • Historically expensive compared to other partner GTX 1060 models
  • Lack of SLI support, preventing multi-GPU configurations
  • Limited to 1080p for a smooth experience; struggles with 1440p ultra or 4K gaming
  • Side red LED accents are not RGB and cannot be changed from the color red

Expert reviews

T
toolsandtoys.net
09/08/2016
A Review of the MSI GTX 1060 Gaming X Graphics Card

The review highlights the MSI GTX 1060 Gaming X as a fantastic mid-market upgrade for gamers aiming to achieve fluid 1080p performance at 60 frames per second without breaking the bank. On the positive side, the card delivers impressive performance in highly demanding titles like The Witcher 3, averaging 68 FPS, and easily exceeds 60 FPS in optimized games like Overwatch and Doom....Read more

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bit-tech.net
29/07/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G Review | bit-tech.net

The MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G is a premium graphics card priced at £299.99 ($299.99), offering a notable 30 percent markup over entry-level GTX 1060 models but a cheaper price tag than competitors like the Asus Strix. The card stands out for its high out-of-the-box performance, arriving with a factory overclock that can be pushed to 1,594MHz base and 1,809MHz boost when...Read more

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hexus.net
20/07/2016
Review: MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X - HEXUS.net

The HEXUS review of the MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X evaluates a premium mid-range graphics card that utilizes the highly efficient 16nm Pascal architecture. A major pro highlighted in the review is the inclusion of the massive Twin Frozr VI dual-fan cooler, a high-end thermal solution repurposed from the more powerful GTX 1070 and 1080 models. Because this cooling system is...Read more

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tomshardware.com
21/03/2017
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 3G Review (Roundup)

The MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 3G is a graphics card tailored primarily for MMORPG and MOBA players looking for solid 1920x1080 resolution performance. Under the hood, its GP106-300 GPU features 1152 active CUDA cores—offering exactly 10% less theoretical compute power than the 6GB variant—and comes equipped with 3GB of Samsung GDDR5 graphics memory. Architecturally, the board...Read more

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techpowerup.com
06/09/2016
MSI GTX 1060 Gaming X 3 GB Review

The TechPowerUp review of the MSI GTX 1060 Gaming X 3 GB identifies it as a strong 1080p card, featuring the premium Twin Frozr VI cooler, which keeps temperatures at 67°C and noise levels low at 29 dBA under load. It boasts a factory overclock, a 0dB fan mode, and a robust, aesthetic design, with performance comparable to an RX 480. However, the card faces limitations with a...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
17/02/2017
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 GAMING X 6G review – solid design, overclocking capabilities and silent operation

The MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G, highlighted in the LaptopMedia review, is praised for its Twin Frozr VI cooling system, which ensures silent operation under 60°C, and exceptional overclocking potential, allowing the core to pass 2100 MHz. Featuring high-quality components, a sturdy backplate, and an 8-pin connector for improved power delivery, it offers significant performance...Read more

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tomshardware.com
21/03/2017
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G Review (Roundup)

MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G The MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G utilizes a heavily oversized cooling solution borrowed from MSI's higher-end GTX 1070 and 1080 models, making it exceptionally quiet and highly efficient at managing temperatures. Weighing 35.4 oz and occupying two full expansion slots, the card delivers stable, out-of-the-box performance with an observed GPU...Read more

P
pcmag.com
22/07/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G Review

The MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G delivers strong 1080p and light 1440p gaming performance, utilizing 6GB of GDDR5 memory and the efficient, quiet Twin Frozr VI cooling system. This mid-range, Pascal-based card features excellent build quality and substantial overclocking headroom, making it a compelling option for high-end 1080p gaming. YouTube · However, the card’s larger...Read more

T
tweaktown.com
23/08/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G Graphics Card Review

The MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G is a highly capable mid-range graphics card that excels at providing 60FPS+ gameplay at both 1080p and 1440p resolutions. Built around the GP106 GPU with 6GB of GDDR5 memory, it features three custom performance profiles: Silent, Gaming, and OC mode. The card relies on an advanced Twin Frozr VI cooling array and a single 8-pin PCIe power...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
19/07/2016
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6 GB Review | TechPowerUp

The TechPowerUp review of the MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6 GB highlights it as a premium, highly refined graphics card with a custom PCB, 8-pin power, and the Twin Frozr VI cooling solution. Offering exceptional thermal efficiency at 67°C under load and near-silent 28 dBA acoustics, it delivers excellent 1080p performance that often beats the GTX 980 and competes strongly with...Read more

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tech-critter.com
09/01/2017
MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G Review

MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G Review Summary The MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G is a highly efficient, custom-designed graphics card built on a 16 nm process with 6GB of GDDR5 memory and a 192-bit bus. Equipped with MSI’s TwinFrozr VI cooler, TORX 2.0 dual ball bearing fans, and a thick SuperSU heatsink, the card delivers exceptional thermal management, running up to 10°C...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
17/02/2017
Test de la MSI GeForce GTX 1060 GAMING X 6G : conception solide, capacites d’overclocking et fonctionnement silencieux

The LaptopMedia review highlights the MSI GeForce GTX 1060 GAMING X 6G as a high-performing 1080p card, featuring the quiet, efficient TWIN FROZR VI cooling system and exceptional overclocking headroom. Its solid design includes a metal backplate and robust PCB, offering superior thermals with temperatures around 58°C–63°C under load. Cons include the lack of SLI support, limited...Read more

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noticias3d.com
02/11/2016
MSI Geforce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G - Noticias3D.com

The Noticias3D review provides an in-depth analysis of the MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G, highlighting its custom enhancements over NVIDIA's Founders Edition. Built on the 16nm Pascal GP106 architecture with 6 GB of GDDR5 memory and a 192-bit bus, this card stands out due to its substantial factory overclocking. Users can cycle through three distinct performance profiles using...Read more

(Translated)Show original
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tech.everyeye.it
19/07/2016
Recensione MSI GTX 1060 GAMING X 6G - Everyeye Tech

The MSI GTX 1060 Gaming X 6G delivers outstanding graphics performance for mid-range gaming setups, successfully positioning itself as the true heir to the GTX 970 and often outperforming the reference GTX 980. Built on NVIDIA's 16nm Pascal architecture, this custom GPU features 1,280 CUDA cores, a 192-bit interface, and a factory overclocked boost that reaches up to 1810MHz. In...Read more

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M
multiplayer.it
22/11/2016
MSI Trident - Recensione - Hardware PC.

The review from Multiplayer.it highlights the MSI Trident as a compact, console-sized desktop PC designed for high-quality 1080p (FullHD) gaming and virtual reality (VR). The specific unit reviewed features an Intel Core i5-6400 processor, an MSI GeForce GTX 1060 Gaming graphics card with 3GB of VRAM, 8GB of DDR4 RAM, a 125GB SSD, and a 1TB hard drive, all running on a 230W power...Read more

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tweakers.net
19/07/2026
Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 review - Op scherp in het midrange segment

The Tweakers review of the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 highlights a highly competitive mid-range card with an exceptionally efficient Pascal-based architecture, delivering high performance, low 120W TDP, and impressive overclocking up to 2.0GHz on custom models. Pros include excellent 1080p gaming performance and significant power efficiency, while cons involve a complete lack of SLI...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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