Biostar has recently reintroduced its RX 580 GPU, now in white, a seemingly nostalgic nod to one of AMD’s most popular offerings from the past decade. While the original RX 580, released in 2017, was a powerhouse in its day for Team Red, the 2024 iteration faces much more competition. Back then, it debuted at $229, but we don’t yet know how much Biostar’s refresh will be.
The RX 580, powered by the Polaris 20 XT GPU, initially made waves with its impressive performance-to-price ratio. Its 2304 Stream Processors and 8GB of VRAM made it a go-to choice for gamers back then (unless you were Team Green of course). However, Biostar’s 2024 model is a slightly different SKU. It features the Polaris 20 XL GPU, a variant with 2048 Stream Processors. While this might seem like a minor tweak, it’s actually quite indicative of the card’s age.
Outclassed by modern GPUs
In today’s market, the RX 580’s capabilities are significantly outclassed by modern GPUs. Its 150W TBP and performance, roughly 40% faster than the integrated Radeon 780M, pale in comparison to the power and efficiency offered by newer GPUs. The lack of support for cutting-edge technologies like ray tracing, AFMF 2, and other advanced video features further limits its appeal.
For gamers looking to build a new system in 2024, the RX 580 is likely not the best choice. The card’s age and limited capabilities make it a less-than-ideal option, especially for the bigger, more demanding titles. If you’re on a tight budget, it might be worth considering more recent entry-level 8GB AMD GPUs like the RX 6600 ($199.99), RX 6650 XT ($235), or RX 7600 ($250). Prices are correct at the time of writing.
These cards offer better performance and support for modern features, making them a more attractive proposition for gamers on a budget. While it’s commendable that Biostar is continuing to release older Radeon GPUs, the RX 580’s place in the market is undeniably niche.