AMD Radeon RX 580 2048SP
AMD Radeon RX 580 2048SP: Review of a Budget Veteran in the Gaming Market
April 2025
Introduction
Despite the release of new generations of graphics cards, the AMD Radeon RX 580 2048SP remains a popular choice for budget PCs. This model, launched in 2018 as an optimized version of the original RX 580, still has its audience due to its balance between price and performance. In this article, we will explore how relevant this card is in 2025 and who it suits.
1. Architecture and Key Features
Architecture: The RX 580 2048SP is built on a modified version of the Polaris microarchitecture (Polaris 20 XL). While this is not the most modern design, its optimization has allowed for a reduction in manufacturing costs.
Process Technology: 14nm technology from GlobalFoundries. By 2025, this is considered an outdated standard, but the card remains competitive in the budget segment due to its low chip price.
Unique Features:
- AMD FidelityFX — a set of technologies aimed at enhancing graphics (e.g., contrast sharpening).
- FreeSync — support for adaptive synchronization to eliminate screen tearing.
- No RT Cores — hardware-level ray tracing is not supported.
2. Memory
Type and Size: 8 GB GDDR5. By 2025, GDDR5 is an archaic standard; however, this amount is sufficient for 1080p gaming.
Bandwidth: 256 GB/s (256-bit bus, effective frequency 8000 MHz). This is enough for most games at high settings in Full HD.
Impact on Performance: In games with high-resolution textures (e.g., Red Dead Redemption 2), 8 GB of memory reduces the risk of FPS drops. However, at 1440p and 4K, GDDR5 bandwidth becomes insufficient.
3. Gaming Performance
1080p (Full HD):
- Fortnite (Epic Settings): 70–90 FPS.
- Cyberpunk 2077 (Medium Settings): 40–50 FPS.
- Apex Legends (High Settings): 80–100 FPS.
1440p (QHD):
For comfortable gaming, settings need to be reduced to medium:
- Call of Duty: Warzone: 45–55 FPS.
4K: Not recommended — even at low settings, average FPS rarely exceeds 30 frames.
Ray Tracing: Not supported. For games with RTX (e.g., Alan Wake II), only software rendering is activated, leading to a catastrophic drop in FPS.
4. Professional Tasks
Video Editing: In programs like DaVinci Resolve or Premiere Pro, the card can handle rendering up to 1080p. For 4K projects, it lacks computational power.
3D Modeling: Supports OpenCL, allowing work in Blender, but rendering speeds lag behind modern GPUs. For instance, a mid-level scene renders in 15–20 minutes compared to 5–7 minutes with the RX 6600.
Scientific Calculations: Due to the lack of CUDA (NVIDIA technology), this card is not suitable for specialized tasks. However, it can be used in OpenCL projects (beginner-level machine learning).
5. Power Consumption and Heat Dissipation
TDP: 185 W. This is a high figure for 2025 — similarly performing cards (e.g., NVIDIA GTX 1650 Super) consume up to 100 W.
Recommendations:
- Power Supply: At least 500 W (preferably with an 80+ Bronze certification).
- Cooling: A system with 2–3 fans is essential. Models with single-slot coolers (e.g., from Sapphire Pulse) should be avoided — temperatures can reach 85°C under load.
- Case: Good ventilation (at least 2 intake fans and 1 exhaust fan).
6. Comparison with Competitors
Within AMD:
- RX 6500 XT (4 GB): Less powerful (~15%), but more energy-efficient (TDP 107 W). Price: $160–180.
- RX 6600 (8 GB): 40–50% more powerful and supports ray tracing. Price: $230–250.
NVIDIA:
- GTX 1650 Super (4 GB): Comparable in FPS in DX11, but weaker in DX12/Vulkan. TDP 100 W. Price: $170–190.
- RTX 3050 (8 GB): 30% faster, supports DLSS and RTX. Price: $250–280.
Conclusion: The RX 580 2048SP is only advantageous for budgets up to $150–170, but it lags in energy efficiency and support for modern technologies.
7. Practical Tips
- Power Supply: Choose models with overload protection (e.g., Corsair CX550).
- Compatibility: The card works on PCIe 3.0 but is also compatible with PCIe 4.0/5.0 (without performance loss).
- Drivers: Use the latest versions of Adrenalin 2025 Edition. Avoid "beta builds" — they may have issues in older games.
- Overclocking: Limited potential (+5–7% performance). Increase core frequency to 1400 MHz and memory to 2100 MHz, if cooling allows.
8. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Low price ($140–160 for new models).
- 8 GB of memory for texture work.
- Support for FreeSync and FidelityFX.
Cons:
- High power consumption.
- No hardware ray tracing.
- Outdated architecture.
9. Final Verdict: Who is the RX 580 2048SP For?
This graphics card is a choice for:
1. Budget Gamers: If you play at 1080p and are not willing to overpay for RTX/DLSS.
2. Old PC Owners: Upgrading systems with CPUs like Intel Core i5–9400F or Ryzen 5 2600.
3. Entry-Level Streamers: Encoding via AMD VCE works reliably in OBS at 1080p/60 FPS.
Alternative: If the budget allows, it’s better to spend an additional $30–50 for an RX 6600 or RTX 3050 — you’ll get more modern features and future-proofing.
Conclusion
The RX 580 2048SP in 2025 serves as a "workhorse" for modest systems. It won't wow with performance but will provide stable FPS in most games. However, considering advancements in energy efficiency, it’s worth thinking twice before choosing it over newer alternatives.