The Nvidia GTX 960, part of the GeForce 900 series, was released back in January 2015. It was a mid-range graphics card that was well-received for its performance at the time.
Also known for its energy efficiency, thanks to Nvidia’s Maxwell architecture. This efficiency made it a popular choice among budget-conscious gamers and professionals alike.
As we revisit this GPU in 2024, it’s fascinating to see how it stands in the current landscape. With the evolution of gaming and professional graphics requirements, the GTX 960’s capabilities may seem somewhat dated, but it still holds a place in the hearts of many enthusiasts.
Technical Specifications
The Nvidia GTX 960 is based on the GM206-300 architecture and fabricated on a 28 nm process. Here’s a quick look at some of its key specifications:
| Specification | Detail |
| Transistors | 2.94 billion |
| Base Clock Speed | 1127 MHz |
| Boost Clock Speed | 1178 MHz |
| Memory | 2 or 4 GB GDDR5 |
| Memory Bandwidth | 112.1 GB/s |
| Bus Width | 128-bit |
| TDP | 120 Watts |
| API Support | DirectX 12, OpenGL 4.6 |
Interesting Fact: The GTX 960 was one of the first GPUs to support HDMI 2.0, allowing for 4K resolution at 60 FPS on supported monitors
Performance Benchmarks in Modern Games
As of 2024, the GTX 960’s performance in modern games is understandably limited. While it may still handle older titles or less demanding games at medium settings, it struggles with the latest AAA games at high resolutions and settings.
However, it can still be a viable option for casual gaming or as a secondary GPU for non-gaming tasks. Its performance in modern games can be enhanced by lowering the resolution and graphics settings.
Power Efficiency and Cooling
The Nvidia GTX 960 was launched as a significant advancement in power efficiency and realistic gameplay. Its Maxwell architecture allowed for a commendable performance-per-watt ratio, making it a popular choice for energy-conscious users. The typical Thermal Design Power (TDP) of the GTX 960 is 120 Watts, which is relatively low for its performance class.
Cooling solutions varied among different manufacturers, but most GTX 960 models featured advanced cooling designs to keep the GPU running smoothly. Whether through traditional fan cooling or more advanced heat dissipation techniques, the GTX 960 generally maintained acceptable temperature levels.
Upgrading the cooling system can further enhance its performance, especially if you’re looking to overclock the GPU. Aftermarket coolers are available that can provide more efficient cooling.
Software and Driver Support
As of 2024, the GTX 960 is no longer in stock, and the 900 series has been superseded by newer generations like the RTX 40 Series.
However, Nvidia still provides driver support for the 900 series, ensuring compatibility with modern operating systems and applications.
| Software Feature | Support Status |
| Ray-Traced Graphics | Not Supported |
| AI-Powered DLSS 3 | Not Supported |
| Latest Game Drivers | Available |
| Virtual Reality | Limited Support |
Interesting Fact: While the GTX 960 doesn’t support the latest ray-tracing and AI-powered features, it was one of the GPUs that brought unprecedented performance to games during its time. It remains a viable option for basic gaming and multimedia tasks.
User Experience and Feedback
The GTX 960 has had a long history of satisfying various user needs, from gaming to professional work. Users often praise its balance between performance and power efficiency.
However, in the context of 2024, it’s considered a dated option for demanding tasks.
| Aspect | User Feedback |
| Gaming Performance | Adequate for Older Titles |
| Power Efficiency | Excellent |
| Cooling | Generally Good |
| Longevity | Varies by Model |
Pro Tip: If you’re considering purchasing a used GTX 960, make sure to check the specific model and manufacturer, as cooling and longevity can vary significantly between different versions.
Pricing and Availability
The Nvidia GTX 960, being a card that was initially released in 2015, is now available mainly in the used market. You can find it on various online platforms like eBay, where the pricing ranges widely depending on the condition and specific model.
Here’s a general overview of the pricing and availability:
| Condition | Price Range |
| Brand New | $20 – $100 |
| Pre-Owned | $30 – $70 |
| For Parts/Not Working | $10 – $30 |
Pro Tip: When purchasing a used graphics card, always check the seller’s ratings and reviews to ensure you’re getting a product that’s in good condition
FAQ
Is the Nvidia GTX 960 Suitable for Modern Gaming?
While it can still handle some modern games at lower settings, it may struggle with the latest titles at high resolutions or settings.
Can the GTX 960 Support 4 K Resolution?
The GTX 960 can support 4K resolution, but gaming at this resolution will likely be beyond its capabilities for most modern games.
What Are the Power Requirements for The GTX 960?
Typically, a 400W power supply with at least one 6-pin PCIe power connector is recommended.
What Direct X Version Does the GTX 960 Support?
The GTX 960 supports DirectX 12, allowing compatibility with a wide range of modern games and applications.
Is the GTX 960 Compatible with Windows 11?
Yes, the GTX 960 is compatible with Windows 11, provided that the latest drivers are installed.
Can the GTX 960 Be Used for Video Editing or Content Creation?
While not ideal for professional video editing, the GTX 960 can handle basic content creation and video editing tasks.
How Does the GTX 960 Compare to Integrated Graphics?
The GTX 960 typically offers significantly better performance than most integrated graphics solutions, especially in gaming.
Is It Possible to Overclock the GTX 960?
Yes, the GTX 960 can be overclocked, but it’s essential to monitor temperatures and stability to avoid potential issues.
Conclusion
The Nvidia GTX 960 has had a significant run in the GPU market, providing value and performance in its time. In 2024, it’s considered an entry-level card, suitable for basic gaming, and multimedia tasks, and as a budget-friendly option for building or upgrading a PC.
While it may not be the go-to choice for high-end gaming or professional tasks, its availability in the used market at affordable prices makes it an option worth considering for those with limited needs or budget constraints.
As we delve into the performance benchmarks and overall gaming experience, we’ll uncover whether the NVIDIA GTX 1060 still holds its own in the gaming landscape of 2024.
