Quick Answer
The Radeon RX 570 and GeForce GTX 1650 are both entry-level graphics cards for 1080p gaming. The RX 570 typically offers higher raw performance in older titles, while the GTX 1650 is generally more power-efficient and supports newer features like NVENC encoding. The choice often depends on prioritizing performance per dollar or lower power consumption.
Radeon RX 570 vs GeForce GTX 1650: Full Comparison
Introduction
For gamers building or upgrading a budget-friendly PC, the choice between the AMD Radeon RX 570 and the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 is a common consideration. Both graphics cards target 1080p gaming and have been popular in their respective generations. This comparison breaks down their architectures, gaming performance, features, and efficiency to help clarify their differences and similarities, providing a clear picture of where each model stands.
Architecture and Specifications
The underlying technology of these two GPUs comes from different generations and design philosophies.
- Radeon RX 570: Based on AMD’s older “Polaris” architecture, it is built on a 14nm process. It typically features 2048 Stream Processors, 8GB of GDDR5 memory on a 256-bit bus, and a TDP (Thermal Design Power) around 150 watts. It requires an external 8-pin PCIe power connector.
- GeForce GTX 1650: Built on NVIDIA’s more modern “Turing” architecture (without RT cores) on a 12nm process. It generally features 896 CUDA cores, 4GB of GDDR5 memory (with some models using faster GDDR6) on a 128-bit bus. Its key advantage is a lower TDP, typically around 75 watts, which often allows it to be powered solely through the PCIe slot without an extra power connector.
The architectural difference means the GTX 1650 is more efficient per watt, while the RX 570 was designed for higher compute throughput in its time.
Gaming Performance
Performance can vary significantly depending on the game and system configuration.
- Raw Performance: In many DirectX 11 and older DirectX 12 titles, the Radeon RX 570 often holds a performance advantage, delivering higher average frame rates at 1080p medium to high settings.
- Modern Game Optimization: The GeForce GTX 1650, benefiting from the newer Turing architecture, can sometimes perform better in games that utilize newer APIs or are specifically optimized for NVIDIA hardware. Its performance is generally more consistent in lower-power systems.
- VRAM Consideration: The RX 570’s 8GB of VRAM is a notable advantage over the GTX 1650’s standard 4GB, providing more headroom for higher-resolution textures and reducing the likelihood of stuttering in VRAM-intensive modern games.
Features and Technologies
Both cards support the essential features for gaming but differ in their proprietary technology suites.
- Radeon RX 570: Supports AMD’s features at the time, including FreeSync for variable refresh rate monitors. It uses the Radeon Software driver suite.
GeForce GTX 1650: Supports NVIDIA’s feature set, including G-Sync compatibility (for variable refresh rate) and, crucially, the NVENC encoder. NVENC is a dedicated hardware encoder that is highly efficient for video recording and streaming with minimal performance impact, a significant advantage for content creators.
Power Consumption and Cooling
This is one of the most distinct differentiators between the two models.
- Power Draw: The GTX 1650 is notably more power-efficient, with a TDP roughly half that of the RX 570. This translates to lower heat output and less strain on the power supply.
- System Compatibility: The GTX 1650’s lower power requirement makes it a common choice for upgrading pre-built office PCs with limited-power power supplies, as it often doesn’t need auxiliary power. The RX 570 almost always requires a power supply with a proper 8-pin connector and more overall capacity.
- Cooling and Noise: Due to its higher heat output, the RX 570 typically requires a more robust cooling solution. In smaller cases or systems with poor airflow, the GTX 1650 might run cooler and quieter.
Comparison Table: Radeon RX 570 vs GeForce GTX 1650
| Feature | Radeon RX 570 | GeForce GTX 1650 |
|---|---|---|
| GPU Architecture | Polaris (14nm) | Turing (12nm) |
| Stream Processors / CUDA Cores | 2048 Stream Processors | 896 CUDA Cores |
| VRAM (Standard) | 8 GB GDDR5 | 4 GB GDDR5/GDDR6 |
| Memory Bus | 256-bit | 128-bit |
| Typical TDP | ~150 W | ~75 W |
| External Power | 1x 8-pin connector | Often none (slot-powered) |
| Key Gaming Feature | AMD FreeSync Support | G-Sync Compatible, NVENC Encoder |
| Performance Profile | Higher raw performance in many older titles | Better power efficiency, good for modern API titles |
| Typical Use Case | Budget gaming builds with adequate PSU | Low-power system upgrades, entry-level streaming |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main difference between the RX 570 and GTX 1650?
The primary differences are in power efficiency and architecture. The GTX 1650 uses a newer, more efficient architecture with a much lower power draw, while the RX 570 typically offers more VRAM and higher raw performance in its performance tier but consumes significantly more power.
Which card is better for a low-power pre-built PC upgrade?
The GeForce GTX 1650 is generally the more suitable choice. Its low ~75W TDP often allows it to be powered directly from the motherboard’s PCIe slot, making it compatible with many office-oriented pre-built systems that have limited power supplies.
Does the GTX 1650’s 4GB VRAM limit it compared to the RX 570’s 8GB?
It can be a limiting factor in some newer games at higher texture settings. The 8GB on the RX 570 provides more headroom and can help avoid texture-related stuttering in VRAM-intensive scenarios, which might be a consideration for future game releases.
Which graphics card is more relevant for streaming?
The GeForce GTX 1650 has an advantage due to its dedicated NVENC hardware encoder. This allows for efficient video encoding with minimal impact on gaming performance, whereas streaming on the RX 570 would typically rely more on the CPU, which could affect frame rates.
Final Thoughts
The Radeon RX 570 and GeForce GTX 1650 represent two different approaches to budget 1080p gaming. The RX 570 tends to be the choice for users with a standard power supply who prioritize maximum performance per dollar in traditional gaming, benefiting from its higher VRAM capacity. Conversely, the GTX 1650 appeals to those with strict power constraints, such as in small form factor or pre-built systems, and to users who value newer features like efficient hardware encoding for streaming. The decision ultimately hinges on the specific requirements of the system it will be installed in and the user’s balance between performance, power consumption, and feature set.