AMD Radeon HD 6870 X2
AMD Radeon HD 6870 X2: The Resurrection of a Legend in 2025
Updated classic for gamers and enthusiasts
Introduction
In 2025, AMD introduced an updated version of the iconic Radeon HD 6870 X2 graphics card, reimagined for modern tasks. This model combines nostalgic design with current technologies, positioning itself as a budget solution for gamers and enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore what the refreshed HD 6870 X2 is capable of and who it is suitable for.
1. Architecture and Key Features
Architecture: The updated HD 6870 X2 utilizes a hybrid RDNA 2+ architecture, adapted for multi-chip systems. This has allowed the concept of "two GPUs on one board" to be maintained, but with modern 6nm manufacturing processes (TSMC), improving energy efficiency.
Unique Features:
- FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR 3.0): Support for AI upscaling to increase FPS in 4K gaming.
- Hybrid Ray Tracing: Simplified ray tracing through software algorithms (no dedicated RT cores).
- Smart Access Memory (SAM): Optimization of CPU access to GPU memory for systems based on Ryzen 5000/7000.
Note: Technologies like DLSS or dedicated Ray Tracing at the level of NVIDIA RTX 40 are absent — this is a compromise for lowering the price.
2. Memory: Speed and Efficiency
Type and Capacity: 10 GB of GDDR6 with a 256-bit bus.
Bandwidth: 448 GB/s (memory frequency — 14 GHz).
For 2025, this capacity and bus width represent the minimum standard for 1440p gaming. GDDR6 instead of HBM or GDDR6X lowers costs but limits performance at 4K. In synthetic tests (e.g., 3DMark Time Spy), the card scores around ~7500 points, which is close to the NVIDIA RTX 3060 Ti.
3. Gaming Performance
Average FPS (Ultra Settings, without Ray Tracing):
- 1080p:
- Cyberpunk 2077 — 65 FPS (with FSR 3.0);
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare V — 110 FPS.
- 1440p:
- Starfield 2 — 45 FPS (FSR 3.0 activated);
- Fortnite — 85 FPS.
- 4K: Only for less demanding titles (CS3, Valorant) — 60-90 FPS.
Ray Tracing: Enabling Hybrid Ray Tracing reduces FPS by 30-50%. For example, Shadow of the Tomb Raider at 1080p yields 40 FPS with RT. For comfortable gaming, it’s better to turn off ray tracing.
4. Professional Tasks
Video Editing: In Adobe Premiere Pro, rendering a 4K video takes 20% more time than with the NVIDIA RTX 4060 (due to the lack of AI accelerators).
3D Modeling: In Blender and Maya, the card shows modest results — OpenCL rendering lags behind CUDA.
Scientific Calculations: Support for OpenCL 3.0 allows the use of the GPU for entry-level machine learning, but is limited due to the memory capacity.
Tip: For professional tasks, it is better to choose cards with larger VRAM (e.g., Radeon Pro W7800).
5. Power Consumption and Heat Dissipation
TDP: 220 W — this is 30% lower than the original HD 6870 X2 from 2010 but still requires thoughtful cooling.
Recommendations:
- Case: At least three intake fans and good ventilation.
- Cooling: The reference system with a turbine is quite noisy (up to 38 dB under load). It’s better to opt for custom versions with 2-3 coolers (for example, from Sapphire).
Important: Power supply must be at least 650 W with an 80+ Bronze certification.
6. Comparison with Competitors
- AMD Radeon RX 7600 XT (8 GB): Priced at $300, but weaker at 1440p due to lower memory capacity.
- NVIDIA RTX 4060 (12 GB): For $330 offers DLSS 3.5 and full Ray Tracing but falls behind in pure performance without AI technologies.
- Intel Arc A770 (16 GB): Better for 4K and Ray Tracing tasks, but drivers are still immature.
The HD 6870 X2 ($270) is a choice for those who value price and support for multi-monitor setups (4x DisplayPort 2.1).
7. Practical Tips
- Power Supply: 650 W + PCIe cable 8+6 pin.
- Compatibility:
- PCIe 4.0 x16 (backward compatible with 3.0).
- Not recommended for compact cases (card length — 280 mm).
- Drivers: Adrenalin 2025 Edition is stable, but conflicts with outdated software can occur — regularly update the system.
8. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Low price for the level of performance.
- Support for FSR 3.0 and SAM.
- Sturdy construction (metal backplate).
Cons:
- No dedicated Ray Tracing.
- Limited memory capacity for 4K.
- Noisy reference cooling system.
9. Final Verdict: Who is the HD 6870 X2 Suitable For?
This graphics card is ideal for:
- Gamers with 1080p/1440p monitors who are willing to disable RT for high FPS.
- AMD enthusiasts who value the balance of price and performance.
- Owners of older PCs looking to upgrade without replacing the power supply.
If you are not chasing ultra settings and wish to save money — the HD 6870 X2 will be a reliable companion in gaming and work. However, for professional tasks or 4K gaming, it’s better to look for more powerful models.
Prices are valid as of April 2025. The card is available at retail in the U.S. at a suggested price of $270.