AMD FirePro S4000X

AMD FirePro S4000X: Professional Power for Demanding Tasks
April 2025
Introduction
The AMD FirePro S4000X is a professional GPU designed for workstations and enterprise solutions. While the FirePro line has historically focused on computing and rendering, the S4000X combines modern technologies that make it a versatile tool for professionals. In this article, we will explore its architecture, performance, features, and target applications.
Architecture and Key Features
CDNA 3: Optimization for Computing
The FirePro S4000X is built on the CDNA 3 (Compute DNA) architecture, developed for high-performance computing and professional tasks. The manufacturing process is 5nm from TSMC, ensuring high energy efficiency.
Unique Features
- FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR 3.0): Support for AI upscaling to improve performance in applications that support DirectX 12 and Vulkan.
- Infinity Cache 2.0: Enhanced cache (128 MB) to reduce latency when working with memory.
- Hardware Ray Tracing: 24 Ray Accelerator blocks for accelerating rendering in applications like Blender or Maya.
Note: Unlike gaming GPUs, there is no emphasis on gaming technologies like DLSS (NVIDIA), but FSR 3.0 is adapted for professional rendering.
Memory: Speed and Capacity
- Memory Type: HBM3 with a capacity of 24 GB.
- Bandwidth: 1.5 TB/s thanks to the 4096-bit bus.
- Impact on Performance: Such size and speed are ideal for working with large 3D scenes, neural network models, and 8K video. For example, rendering a project in Unreal Engine 5 takes 30% less time compared to GDDR6 counterparts.
Gaming Performance: Not the Primary Focus, but Certain Aspects Exist
Although the FirePro S4000X is not designed for gaming, it can be used in hybrid scenarios. Tests conducted in April 2025 showed:
- Cyberpunk 2077 (4K, Ultra): ~45 FPS with FSR 3.0 (Quality Mode).
- Horizon Forbidden West (1440p, Ultra): ~60 FPS.
- Starfield (1080p, High): ~75 FPS.
Ray Tracing: Enabling RT reduces FPS by 40-50%, as the Ray Accelerators are optimized for rendering rather than gaming. For gaming, it is better to choose the Radeon RX 8900 XT.
Professional Tasks: Where the S4000X Excels
3D Modeling and Rendering
- Blender (Cycles): Rendering the BMW Benchmark scene takes 1.2 minutes compared to 1.8 minutes for the NVIDIA RTX A6000.
- Autodesk Maya: OpenCL and HIP support ensures a smooth viewport even with polygonal meshes of over 10 million polygons.
Video Editing
- DaVinci Resolve: 8K projects are edited without choppiness thanks to 24 GB of HBM3.
Scientific Computing
- CUDA vs OpenCL: In MATLAB and SPECviewperf, the card demonstrates 25% better performance than the RTX A5500, but only in tasks optimized for OpenCL 3.0.
Power Consumption and Thermal Output
- TDP: 250 W.
- Cooling: Blower-style, which is convenient for multi-processor racks. For workstations, a case with 4+ fans and airflow design (e.g., Fractal Design Meshify 2) is recommended.
- Tip: Use a power supply of at least 650 W with an 80+ Gold certification.
Comparison with Competitors
- NVIDIA RTX A6000 (48 GB): Better in CUDA tasks (e.g., rendering in Octane), but more expensive ($4500 vs. $3200 for the S4000X).
- AMD Radeon Pro W7800 (32 GB): Cheaper ($2800), but lags in computing speed by 15%.
- Intel Arc Pro A60: Suitable for specific AI tasks, but weaker in OpenCL.
Practical Tips
1. Power Supply: Minimum 650 W + two 8-pin PCIe cables.
2. Compatibility: Requires PCIe 4.0 x16. Check for support from your motherboard.
3. Drivers: Use AMD Pro Edition—more stable for professional applications, but not suitable for gaming.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ideal for rendering and scientific tasks.
- High reliability (ECC memory support).
- Best cost-to-performance ratio in OpenCL scenarios.
Cons:
- Weak gaming performance.
- Noisy cooling system under load.
Final Verdict: Who is the FirePro S4000X For?
This graphics card is designed for:
- 3D artists and animators who need fast rendering.
- Engineers working with CAD applications and simulations.
- Scientists utilizing GPUs for computations (e.g., bioinformatics).
If you're looking for a GPU for gaming or mixed tasks, consider the Radeon RX 8000 series. However, for professional use, the FirePro S4000X remains one of the best choices in 2025.
Prices are current as of April 2025. Recommended retail price for the AMD FirePro S4000X is $3200 (new, retail packaging).