PCPairs

Core i7-11700K + GTX 1660 Super: bottleneck check

21%

GPU-limited at 1440p. GPU-bound (normal).

The GTX 1660 Super is the part working hardest at 1440p, which is what you want. The Core i7-11700K keeps about 21% in reserve.

By resolution

ResolutionLimiting partSeverityVerdict
1080pGPU 12%balanced
1440pGPU 21%GPU-bound (normal)
4KGPU 40%GPU-bound (normal)

The GTX 1660 Super is the limiting part at every resolution, which is the healthy direction, and the gap is small enough that neither part is wasted. Upgrade the GPU first when you want more frames.

Specifications

Intel Core i7-11700K
Cores / threads8 / 16
Max boost5.0 GHz
SocketLGA1200
Max turbo power125 W
Released2021
Gaming index62 / 100
Multi-core index54 / 100
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super
VRAM6 GB
Board power125 W
Released2019
1080p index19.9 / 100
1440p index15 / 100
4K index11.3 / 100

Power supply

CPU 125 W + GPU 125 W + about 100 W for motherboard, memory, storage and fans gives an estimated peak load of 350 W. We recommend a 550 W unit (80 Plus Gold or better) so transient spikes from the graphics card stay inside the PSU's comfort zone. Try other pairs in the PSU calculator.

Upgrade paths

Cards that use the Core i7-11700K fully

Best CPU for the GTX 1660 Super Best GPU for the Core i7-11700K GTX 1660 Super PSU requirements

Indexes are relative estimates aggregated from published reviews; real results vary by game, settings, memory speed and drivers. Methodology.