With the recent cryptocurrency crash, used graphics cards—especially those suspected to be former mining cards like the GTX 1060—are flooding the market at bargain prices. While these cards may seem tempting, there are critical factors to consider before purchasing. Here’s a detailed analysis to help you decide whether a used GTX 1060 is worth the risk.
The Current Market for Used GTX 1060 GPUs
Since late 2017, the cryptocurrency boom drove massive demand for GPUs, particularly mid-range cards like the NVIDIA GTX 1060, which became a favorite among miners due to their balance of performance and affordability. However, with Bitcoin’s value plummeting from $6,000 to around $3,300 recently, mining has become unprofitable for many. As a result, miners are offloading their used cards, causing prices to drop dramatically.
In the secondary market, GTX 1060 cards now sell for ¥1,000–1,300 (approximately $150–190), but buyers should beware: these low prices often come with hidden pitfalls.
Key Risks of Buying a Used Mining Card
1. Compromised GPU Quality
- Cut-Corners Manufacturing: Many mining cards were sourced from budget-friendly or OEM channels, with lower-quality components compared to retail versions.
- Counterfeit Cards: Some cards originate from shady factories in Shenzhen or Dongguan, where counterfeiters slap branded labels onto substandard hardware.
2. Prolonged Heavy Workloads
- 24/7 Full Load: Mining GPUs ran at maximum capacity continuously, often in poorly ventilated environments. Dust accumulation can damage circuits, and many sellers use harsh water-cleaning methods that further degrade components.
3. Lack of Reliable Support
- No Warranty Coverage: Manufacturers often deny repairs if they detect mining use, leaving buyers to rely on expensive third-party fixes.
- High Failure Rates: Even repaired cards are prone to recurring issues due to prolonged stress.
Better Alternatives: New GTX 1060 Cards
For gamers prioritizing stability and longevity, a new GTX 1060 is a smarter investment. Models like Galax’s GTX 1060 OC now retail below ¥2,000 (~$280), with promotional discounts bringing prices closer to **¥1,700–1,800** (~$250). Benefits include:
- Full warranties and customer support.
- Higher-quality materials and optimized cooling.
- Reliable performance for modern games.
👉 Check current deals on GTX 1060 cards
FAQs About Buying Used GTX 1060 GPUs
Q1: How can I tell if a used GTX 1060 was a mining card?
A: Look for signs like excessive dust, worn-out fans, or BIOS modifications. Sellers may also disclose its mining history.
Q2: Are there any safe uses for a mining GTX 1060?
A: Light tasks (e.g., office work, media playback) may be fine, but avoid demanding applications like gaming or rendering.
Q3: Why do manufacturers void warranties for mining cards?
A: Mining exceeds typical consumer workloads, accelerating wear and tear. Companies exclude this use to limit liability.
Q4: Is a used GTX 1060 worth it for budget builds?
A: Only if you accept the risks. For slightly more, a new card offers peace of mind.
Final Recommendation
While mining GTX 1060 cards appear cost-effective, their high failure rates and lack of support make them a gamble. With new cards now competitively priced, opting for a retail model ensures better performance and durability.
👉 Explore trusted GPU alternatives
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1. **GTX 1060**
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3. **Used graphics cards**
4. **Cryptocurrency crash**
5. **GPU warranty issues**
6. **Buying used GPUs**
7. **Galax GTX 1060**