The RTX 2060 is Still a Capable 1080p GPU in 2024

As an avid gamer and PC hardware specialist, I get asked often if buying an RTX 2060 is still a smart choice in 2024. Based on extensive testing and benchmark data, I firmly believe the 2060 remains a very solid 1080p gaming GPU this year. With optimized settings and DLSS enabled, it can deliver 60+ FPS across most modern titles.

However, there are a few important things to consider before picking up a 2060:

Performance and Comparisons

I put my RTX 2060 through its paces in 10 demanding games, recording average and 1% low FPS values with optimized settings at 1920 x 1080 resolution. Here were the results:

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As you can see, the card held its own very well, with the help of some optimized graphics settings and DLSS enabled. These results clearly demonstrate it‘s still highly relevant for smooth 1080p gameplay.

Compared to the latest GPU releases like Nvidia‘s RTX 4060, the 2060 lags behind in raw performance, delivering around 30% lower frame rates on average. However, the 4060 also costs over $300 more, making the 2060 much better value.

AMD‘s new RX 7600 XT beats the 2060 by about 15% FPS on average, but still struggles in ray tracing workloads. This makes the 2060 a better choice for ray tracing focused games.

Future Proofing and Longevity

Given these performance numbers, I expect the RTX 2060 to remain a very solid 1080p card for at least another 2 years. It should be able to deliver 60 FPS+ for the majority of games releasing through 2025.

However, certain very cutting-edge titles in 2024/2025 may require a reduction in graphics settings to maintain 60 FPS. The card‘s 6GB of VRAM could also prove limiting in the most VRAM intensive future releases, affecting visual fidelity.

Overall though, the 2060‘s strong specs and modern architecture should enable 1080p gameplay that looks and feels great for the foreseeable future.

Recommendations

Here is my personal take on who should consider buying an RTX 2060 in 2024:

• 1080p gamers – If you game primarily at 1920 x 1080, the 2060 is a fantastic choice with great value. It will allow max or close to max settings in any current title at 60+ FPS.
• Esports players – For competitive esports gaming, an RTX 2060 enables extremely high frame rates of well over 144 FPS in titles like Apex Legends, Fortnite etc.
• Budget shoppers – With used models available under $200, the 2060 delivers strong 1080p performance per dollar that still beats budget cards like the RTX 3050.

The 2060 isn‘t ideal for those wanting to future proof for 4K gaming or maximize ray tracing over the next few years. But for smooth 1080p gaming in 2024 and beyond, it gets my solid recommendation based on performance testing.