AMD Radeon R7 360E

AMD Radeon R7 360E: Budget GPU for Basic Tasks and Gaming
April 2025
Introduction
The AMD Radeon R7 360E graphics card is an updated version of the classic budget model, designed for users who do not require top-tier performance but value stability and energy efficiency. This card occupies a niche between integrated graphics and mid-range solutions. Let’s take a look at its features, strengths, and weaknesses.
1. Architecture and Key Features
Architecture: The R7 360E is based on a refined architecture of GCN 3.0 (Graphics Core Next), which has been optimized to lower power consumption. Although it is not the latest RDNA, AMD has added support for some modern features.
Process Technology: 14 nm (a revised process for increased efficiency).
Unique Features:
- FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) 1.0 — an upscaling technology to boost FPS in games.
- FreeSync — eliminates screen tearing with a compatible monitor.
- No hardware ray tracing support — no RT cores.
Conclusion: While the architecture is outdated, it is optimized for basic tasks and light gaming.
2. Memory
Type and Capacity: 2 GB GDDR5 — a modest amount for 2025.
Bus and Bandwidth: A 128-bit bus provides 112 GB/s.
Impact on Performance:
- Downsides: Insufficient memory for textures in modern games (e.g., Cyberpunk 2077 or Starfield require at least 4 GB).
- Upsides: Sufficient for older titles (CS:GO, Dota 2) and for use in office applications.
Advice: Avoid running games at ultra settings or resolutions higher than 1080p.
3. Gaming Performance
1080p (medium settings):
- Fortnite: 45–55 FPS (with FSR 1.0 — up to 65 FPS).
- Apex Legends: 40–50 FPS.
- The Witcher 3: 30–35 FPS.
1440p and 4K: Not recommended — FPS drops below 30 even at low settings.
Ray Tracing: Not supported.
Conclusion: The card is suitable for esports and older games, but not for AAA titles from 2023–2025.
4. Professional Tasks
- Video Editing: Handles rendering at up to 1080p in DaVinci Resolve (via OpenCL), but for 4K, a more powerful GPU is necessary.
- 3D Modeling: Only suitable for simple scenes in Blender.
- Scientific Computing: Limited OpenCL support — it's better to consider cards with CUDA (NVIDIA) or modern AMD RDNA.
Advice: For professional tasks, the R7 360E is a temporary solution.
5. Power Consumption and Heat Dissipation
TDP: 75 W — powered through PCIe with no additional connectors.
Cooling: Passive or compact cooler. Noise level of 28 dB.
Case Recommendations:
- A case with 1–2 fans is sufficient for ventilation.
- Ideal for mini-PCs and HTPC builds.
Plus: Suitable for upgrading old PCs with power supplies of 300–400 W.
6. Comparison with Competitors
NVIDIA GTX 1650 (4 GB GDDR6):
- 20–30% faster in games but is more expensive ($150 versus $100 for the R7 360E).
AMD RX 6400 (4 GB GDDR6):
- Supports FSR 2.0 and PCIe 4.0 but requires a more powerful PSU.
Intel Arc A380 (6 GB GDDR6):
- Better performance in modern APIs (DX12), but drivers are less stable.
Conclusion: The R7 360E is a choice for those who value low price and minimalism.
7. Practical Tips
- Power Supply: 350–400 W (e.g., Corsair CV450).
- Compatibility: PCIe 3.0 x16, works on AMD AM4 and Intel LGA 1700 platforms.
- Drivers: Use Adrenalin 2025 Edition — optimized for stability but lacking support for new features.
Note: Some motherboards may require a BIOS update.
8. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Price: $100–120 (new models).
- Low power consumption.
- Quiet operation.
Cons:
- Only 2 GB of video memory.
- No ray tracing support.
- Weak performance in modern games.
9. Final Thoughts: Who is the R7 360E Suitable For?
This graphics card is a good choice for:
1. Office PCs with occasional gaming sessions.
2. HTPC systems for video watching and light gaming.
3. A temporary solution while transitioning to a more powerful GPU.
4. Owners of old PCs with limited PSU.
Why choose the R7 360E? It offers an optimal balance of price, energy efficiency, and sufficient performance for everyday tasks. However, gamers and professionals would be better off considering models with 4+ GB of memory and support for modern technologies.
Conclusion
The AMD Radeon R7 360E may not be groundbreaking, but it is a reliable option for those who do not chase ultra-settings. As of 2025, it remains relevant in its niche, reminding us that even budget solutions can be practical.