Quick Answer
The Radeon RX 580 and Radeon RX 570 are two graphics cards from the same generation, with the RX 580 offering higher performance. The RX 580 generally features more stream processors and higher clock speeds, resulting in better frame rates in games. The RX 570, while less powerful, typically provides a more budget-friendly option with respectable performance for its class.
Radeon RX 580 vs Radeon RX 570: Full Comparison
Introduction
When considering graphics cards from the same product family, understanding the nuanced differences is key to making an informed choice. The AMD Radeon RX 580 and RX 570 are two such cards that have been popular in the mainstream segment. This comparison will break down their specifications, gaming performance, power characteristics, and overall value to clarify which card might align better with specific user needs, without advocating for one over the other.
Architecture and Core Specifications
Both cards are based on AMD’s Polaris architecture, but they differ in their core configurations. These differences in stream processors, clock speeds, and memory bandwidth form the foundation of their performance gap.
- Stream Processors: The Radeon RX 580 is equipped with 2304 stream processors, while the RX 570 has 2048. This gives the RX 580 a notable advantage in parallel processing power.
- Clock Speeds: The RX 580 operates at higher base and boost clock speeds. A typical RX 580 might have a base clock around 1257 MHz, compared to around 1168 MHz for the RX 570.
- Memory: Both cards commonly feature 4GB or 8GB of GDDR5 memory on a 256-bit bus. The effective memory speed on the RX 580 is often slightly higher, providing greater bandwidth.
Gaming Performance
In practical terms, the performance difference translates directly to in-game frame rates and settings capabilities. The gap is consistent but varies depending on the game and resolution.
- 1080p Gaming: The RX 580 is typically capable of running modern games at High to Ultra settings at 1080p resolution with smooth frame rates. The RX 570 can often manage the same games at Medium to High settings.
- Frame Rate Difference: The performance delta between the two cards is generally in the range of 10-20%, with the RX 580 holding the lead. This means if an RX 570 achieves 50 fps in a title, the RX 580 might achieve around 55-60 fps.
- eSports Titles: For less demanding games like CS:GO, Valorant, or Rocket League, both cards can deliver very high frame rates, making the difference less critical for competitive play.
Power, Thermals, and Design
The increased performance of the RX 580 comes with certain trade-offs in power consumption and thermal output, which can influence system requirements.
- TDP (Thermal Design Power): The RX 580 has a higher TDP, typically around 185 watts, compared to approximately 150 watts for the RX 570. This means the RX 580 may require a more robust power supply.
- Power Connectors: Both cards usually require a single 8-pin PCIe power connector, though some custom models may differ.
- Cooling: Due to higher heat output, RX 580 models often feature more substantial cooling solutions with larger heatsinks or dual fans. Both cards are available from various board partners with different cooler designs that affect noise and temperatures.
Feature Set and Software
Since they are from the same generation and architecture, the two cards share an identical software and feature suite.
- Software Support: Both are fully compatible with AMD’s Radeon Software, offering features like Radeon Image Sharpening, Radeon Anti-Lag, and driver-level performance tuning.
- API Support: They support the same graphics APIs, including DirectX 12, Vulkan, and OpenGL.
- Display Outputs: The output configuration (like DisplayPort and HDMI ports) is generally determined by the specific board partner’s design rather than the GPU itself, and is similar across both models.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Radeon RX 580 | Radeon RX 570 |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Polaris (14nm) | Polaris (14nm) |
| Stream Processors | 2304 | 2048 |
| Base Clock (Typical) | ~1257 MHz | ~1168 MHz |
| Memory | 4GB or 8GB GDDR5 | 4GB or 8GB GDDR5 |
| Memory Bus | 256-bit | 256-bit |
| Memory Bandwidth | ~256 GB/s | ~224 GB/s |
| TDP (Typical) | ~185 Watts | ~150 Watts |
| Power Connector | 1x 8-pin | 1x 8-pin |
| 1080p Gaming Performance | High – Ultra Settings | Medium – High Settings |
| Key Differentiator | Higher performance tier | More power-efficient budget option |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main difference between the RX 580 and RX 570?
The primary differences are in the core configuration. The RX 580 has more stream processors (2304 vs. 2048) and higher clock speeds, which generally result in better gaming performance. The RX 570 has a lower TDP, making it somewhat more power-efficient.
Is the RX 580 significantly better for gaming than the RX 570?
The RX 580 offers a noticeable performance uplift, typically in the range of 10-20% higher frame rates in many games. Whether this is “significant” depends on the target game settings and the user’s sensitivity to frame rate changes.
Do both cards support the same features and software?
Yes. Since they are based on the same Polaris architecture and generation, they are supported by the same drivers and offer identical software features from AMD’s Radeon Software suite.
Which card typically consumes more power?
The Radeon RX 580 has a higher Thermal Design Power (TDP), generally around 185 watts compared to approximately 150 watts for the RX 570. This means the RX 580 will usually draw more power from the system under load.
Final Thoughts
The Radeon RX 580 and RX 570 represent two distinct tiers within the same product family. The RX 580 stands as the higher-performance option, better suited for users seeking higher detail settings and frame rates at 1080p resolution. The RX 570, while less powerful, often presents a balance of capable 1080p gaming and lower power consumption. The choice between them typically hinges on the specific performance requirements, system power supply capacity, and the relative value offered in a given market at the time of consideration.