Core i9-12900K + GTX 1660 Super: bottleneck check
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 i9-12900K keeps about 37% in reserve.
By resolution
| Resolution | Limiting part | Severity | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1080p | GPU | 30% | GPU-bound (normal) |
| 1440p | GPU | 37% | GPU-bound (normal) |
| 4K | GPU | 52% | CPU overkill |
The GTX 1660 Super is the limit at every resolution and by a wide margin at 4K (52%). The Core i9-12900K is overkill for this card: a faster GPU would give you far more frames than any CPU change.
Specifications
| Cores / threads | 16 / 24 |
|---|---|
| Max boost | 5.2 GHz |
| Socket | LGA1700 |
| Max turbo power | 241 W |
| Released | 2021 |
| Gaming index | 78 / 100 |
| Multi-core index | 80 / 100 |
| VRAM | 6 GB |
|---|---|
| Board power | 125 W |
| Released | 2019 |
| 1080p index | 19.9 / 100 |
| 1440p index | 15 / 100 |
| 4K index | 11.3 / 100 |
Power supply
CPU 241 W + GPU 125 W + about 100 W for motherboard, memory, storage and fans gives an estimated peak load of 466 W. We recommend a 650 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
CPUs that remove the bottleneck
LGA1700Cards that use the Core i9-12900K fully
Best CPU for the GTX 1660 Super Best GPU for the Core i9-12900K GTX 1660 Super PSU requirements
Same card, other CPUs
AllIndexes are relative estimates aggregated from published reviews; real results vary by game, settings, memory speed and drivers. Methodology.