GTX 660 vs. Intel Iris Xe

Attribute	GTX 660	Intel Iris Xe
Manufacturer	NVIDIA	Intel
Release Year	2012	2020
Architecture	Kepler	Xe-LP
Core Count	960	96
Memory	2GB GDDR5	Shared System Memory
Performance	Mid-range	Integrated

Introduction

When it comes to choosing a graphics card for your computer, there are many options available in the market. Two popular choices are the GTX 660 from NVIDIA and the Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics. Both of these options have their own set of attributes and features that make them suitable for different types of users.

Performance

The GTX 660 is a dedicated graphics card that offers solid performance for gaming and other graphics-intensive tasks. It comes with a decent amount of VRAM and CUDA cores, which allow it to handle most modern games at medium to high settings. On the other hand, the Intel Iris Xe is an integrated graphics solution that is built into Intel's latest processors. While it may not offer the same level of performance as a dedicated GPU, it is still capable of handling light gaming and everyday tasks with ease.

Power Consumption

One of the key differences between the GTX 660 and Intel Iris Xe is their power consumption. The GTX 660 is a dedicated graphics card that requires its own power supply and can consume a significant amount of power under load. On the other hand, the Intel Iris Xe is integrated into the processor and draws power directly from the CPU. This means that it is more power-efficient compared to the GTX 660, making it a better choice for users who are conscious about energy consumption.

Price

Another important factor to consider when choosing between the GTX 660 and Intel Iris Xe is the price. Dedicated graphics cards like the GTX 660 tend to be more expensive compared to integrated solutions like the Intel Iris Xe. This is because dedicated GPUs come with their own set of components and require additional manufacturing costs. On the other hand, integrated graphics are included in the processor package, which helps to keep the overall cost of the system down.

Compatibility

When it comes to compatibility, the GTX 660 and Intel Iris Xe have different requirements. The GTX 660 is a dedicated graphics card that requires a PCIe slot on the motherboard and a separate power connection. This means that users will need to make sure that their system has the necessary hardware to support the GTX 660. On the other hand, the Intel Iris Xe is integrated into Intel's latest processors and is compatible with a wide range of motherboards that support these CPUs.

Features

Both the GTX 660 and Intel Iris Xe come with their own set of features that cater to different types of users. The GTX 660 offers support for NVIDIA technologies like PhysX and G-Sync, which can enhance the gaming experience. It also comes with a range of video outputs for connecting multiple monitors. On the other hand, the Intel Iris Xe supports features like Quick Sync Video for faster video encoding and decoding. It also offers support for modern display standards like HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the GTX 660 and Intel Iris Xe are two distinct graphics solutions that cater to different types of users. The GTX 660 offers solid performance for gaming and graphics-intensive tasks but comes at a higher price and power consumption. On the other hand, the Intel Iris Xe is a more power-efficient and cost-effective solution that is suitable for light gaming and everyday tasks. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's specific needs and budget.