Quick Answer
The Radeon RX 580 and GeForce GTX 1070 Ti are graphics cards from different generations and performance tiers. The GTX 1070 Ti typically offers significantly higher performance and more advanced features, while the RX 580 generally provides solid performance for its class, often at a lower price point.
Radeon RX 580 vs GeForce GTX 1070 Ti: Full Comparison
Comparing the AMD Radeon RX 580 and the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Ti involves looking at two graphics cards that were popular in their respective market segments. This comparison is useful for understanding the performance and feature differences between a mainstream GPU and a higher-end offering from a previous generation. This analysis will cover their specifications, gaming performance, power efficiency, and feature sets to help clarify their positions.
Architecture and Specifications
The fundamental difference lies in their underlying architecture and specs. The RX 580 is based on AMD’s Polaris architecture, a refresh of the RX 480. The GTX 1070 Ti utilizes NVIDIA’s Pascal architecture, which was generally more efficient at the time.
- GPU Core: The RX 580 uses the Polaris 20 XTX chip, while the GTX 1070 Ti is built on the GP104 chip.
- VRAM: Both cards commonly feature 8GB of GDDR5 memory, but the GTX 1070 Ti uses a wider 256-bit memory bus compared to the RX 580’s 256-bit, resulting in higher bandwidth.
- Process Node: The RX 580 is manufactured on a 14nm process; the GTX 1070 Ti uses a 16nm process.
- Stream Processors/CUDA Cores: The RX 580 has 2304 stream processors. The GTX 1070 Ti features 2432 CUDA cores.
Gaming and Application Performance
In terms of raw performance, there is a clear tier separation. The GTX 1070 Ti was positioned as a high-performance 1440p gaming card, while the RX 580 was targeted at 1080p gaming.
- 1080p Gaming: The RX 580 can generally handle most modern titles at High to Ultra settings at 1080p. The GTX 1070 Ti typically achieves higher frame rates at these settings, often well above 60 FPS.
- 1440p Gaming: The GTX 1070 Ti is more capable at 1440p resolution, often maintaining playable frame rates at High settings. The RX 580 usually requires settings adjustments for smooth 1440p gameplay.
- Content Creation: Applications that leverage CUDA acceleration, such as certain video editing and 3D rendering suites, may perform better on the GTX 1070 Ti.
Features, Power, and Efficiency
Beyond raw performance, the cards differ in their feature sets and power consumption.
- API Support: Both support DirectX 12 and Vulkan. The RX 580 often showed strong performance in Vulkan-based titles.
- Technologies: NVIDIA’s card supports features like G-SYNC (for compatible monitors) and had more mature driver support for certain game features at launch. AMD’s card supports FreeSync, a more widely available and typically less expensive adaptive sync technology.
- Power Consumption: The GTX 1070 Ti, despite its higher performance, is generally more power-efficient. It has a typical board power of around 180W, while the RX 580 can draw around 185W or more, depending on the model.
- Cooling: Both cards were available with various third-party cooler designs, which affected noise levels and temperatures.
Specification Comparison Table
| Feature | Radeon RX 580 | GeForce GTX 1070 Ti |
|---|---|---|
| GPU Architecture | Polaris (14nm) | Pascal (16nm) |
| Stream Processors / CUDA Cores | 2304 | 2432 |
| Base / Boost Clock | ~1257 MHz / ~1340 MHz | ~1607 MHz / ~1683 MHz |
| VRAM | 8 GB GDDR5 | 8 GB GDDR5 |
| Memory Bus | 256-bit | 256-bit |
| Memory Bandwidth | 256 GB/s | 256 GB/s |
| Typical Board Power (TBP) | ~185 W | ~180 W |
| Power Connectors | 1x 8-pin | 1x 8-pin |
| Display Outputs | Typically: 1x HDMI, 3x DisplayPort | Typically: 1x HDMI, 3x DisplayPort, 1x DVI |
| Key Technologies | FreeSync, DirectX 12, Vulkan | G-SYNC, DirectX 12, Vulkan, CUDA, Ansel |
| Performance Target | 1080p Gaming | 1440p Gaming |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main performance difference between the RX 580 and GTX 1070 Ti?
The GTX 1070 Ti typically offers a significant performance advantage, often in the range of 40-60% higher frame rates in many games, placing it in a higher tier for 1440p gaming compared to the 1080p-focused RX 580.
Which card is more power-efficient?
Despite its higher performance, the GeForce GTX 1070 Ti is generally more power-efficient due to its Pascal architecture, often delivering more performance per watt compared to the Radeon RX 580’s Polaris architecture.
Does the RX 580 support ray tracing?
No, the Radeon RX 580 does not have dedicated hardware for real-time ray tracing. This feature was introduced in later GPU generations from both AMD and NVIDIA.
Is the GTX 1070 Ti better for video editing?
It can be, particularly in applications that are optimized for NVIDIA’s CUDA technology. The GTX 1070 Ti’s higher general compute performance may also benefit various creative workloads.
Final Thoughts
The Radeon RX 580 and GeForce GTX 1070 Ti represent two distinct choices from a previous hardware cycle. The RX 580 established itself as a capable 1080p gaming card, often associated with good value. The GTX 1070 Ti targeted users seeking higher frame rates at 1080p or smooth performance at 1440p, coupled with features like G-SYNC support. The choice between them historically depended on performance needs, budget, and preference for ecosystem features like FreeSync versus G-SYNC. When considering these cards today, factors such as availability, condition, and pricing in the secondary market become highly relevant.