The AMD Radeon RX 560 4GB is a popular graphics card among gamers, especially those on a budget. Released in 2017, it has been a staple in the mid-range graphics card market, offering a balance between performance and affordability. However, with the rapid evolution of gaming technology, the question on every gamer’s mind is: is the RX 560 4GB still good for gaming? In this article, we will delve into the details of the RX 560 4GB, its performance, and whether it can handle the demands of modern gaming.
Introduction to the RX 560 4GB
The RX 560 4GB is based on the Polaris architecture, which was a significant improvement over its predecessor, the GCN (Graphics Core Next) architecture. The Polaris architecture brought about several enhancements, including improved power efficiency, increased clock speeds, and better performance per watt. The RX 560 4GB features 1024 stream processors, 64 texture mapping units, and 16 render outputs. It has a base clock speed of 1175 MHz and a boost clock speed of up to 1275 MHz. The 4GB of GDDR5 memory is clocked at 7000 MHz, providing a memory bandwidth of 112 GB/s.
Performance in Modern Games
To determine if the RX 560 4GB is still good for gaming, we need to look at its performance in modern games. The RX 560 4GB can handle games at 1080p (1920×1080) resolution with medium to high graphics settings. However, it may struggle with games that require high graphics settings or 1440p (2560×1440) resolution. Games like Fortnite, League of Legends, and Overwatch can run smoothly at 1080p with high graphics settings, but games like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, The Witcher 3, and Cyberpunk 2077 may require reduced graphics settings to achieve playable frame rates.
Benchmark Results
To give you a better idea of the RX 560 4GB’s performance, here are some benchmark results in popular games:
| Game | Resolution | Graphics Settings | Frame Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fortnite | 1080p | High | 60-80 FPS |
| League of Legends | 1080p | High | 80-100 FPS |
| Overwatch | 1080p | High | 60-80 FPS |
| Assassin’s Creed Odyssey | 1080p | Medium | 40-60 FPS |
| The Witcher 3 | 1080p | Medium | 40-60 FPS |
Comparison with Other Graphics Cards
To put the RX 560 4GB’s performance into perspective, let’s compare it with other graphics cards in the same price range. The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti is a direct competitor to the RX 560 4GB, offering similar performance at a slightly higher price point. The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 is another option, which offers better performance than the RX 560 4GB, but at a higher price point.
Power Consumption and Cooling
The RX 560 4GB has a power consumption of 80W, which is relatively low compared to other graphics cards. This makes it an attractive option for those who want to build a power-efficient gaming PC. The RX 560 4GB also features a single-fan cooling system, which is sufficient for keeping the card cool during gaming sessions. However, it may not be enough for overclocking or extreme gaming.
Overclocking Potential
The RX 560 4GB has some overclocking potential, but it is limited by its power consumption and cooling system. With a good cooling system and a bit of tweaking, you can expect to overclock the RX 560 4GB by around 10-15%. However, overclocking may not be worth it, as the performance gains may not be significant enough to justify the increased power consumption and heat generation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the RX 560 4GB is still a good graphics card for gaming, but it has its limitations. It can handle games at 1080p with medium to high graphics settings, but it may struggle with games that require high graphics settings or 1440p resolution. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly graphics card for 1080p gaming, the RX 560 4GB is still a good option. However, if you’re looking for a graphics card that can handle 1440p or 4K gaming, you may want to consider other options. Ultimately, the decision to buy an RX 560 4GB depends on your specific gaming needs and budget.
Final Thoughts
The RX 560 4GB is a graphics card that has been around for a while, but it still has a lot to offer. With its affordable price point and decent performance, it’s a great option for those who want to build a budget-friendly gaming PC. However, it’s not a graphics card that will future-proof your gaming PC, as it may struggle with upcoming games that require more powerful graphics cards. If you’re looking for a graphics card that can handle the latest games at high graphics settings, you may want to consider other options. But if you’re on a budget and want a graphics card that can handle 1080p gaming, the RX 560 4GB is still a good choice.
Is the RX 560 4GB still a viable option for modern gaming?
The RX 560 4GB is an older mid-range graphics card from AMD, released in 2017. While it was a popular choice for 1080p gaming at the time, its performance may not be sufficient for modern games that require more powerful hardware. However, it can still handle less demanding games and older titles at lower settings. If you’re looking to play games at 1080p with medium to low graphics settings, the RX 560 4GB might still be a viable option.
That being said, if you’re looking to play more demanding games or want to future-proof your system, you may want to consider a more modern graphics card. The RX 560 4GB may struggle with games that require more VRAM, and its performance may not be as smooth as more recent graphics cards. Additionally, the RX 560 4GB may not support the latest graphics technologies, such as ray tracing or variable rate shading, which can enhance the gaming experience. If you’re on a tight budget and can find the RX 560 4GB at a low price, it might still be a good option, but it’s essential to weigh its limitations against your gaming needs.
What are the key specifications of the RX 560 4GB?
The RX 560 4GB is based on the Polaris architecture and features 1024 stream processors, 64 texture units, and 16 raster operators. It has a base clock speed of 1175 MHz and a boost clock speed of up to 1275 MHz. The graphics card also features 4 GB of GDDR5 memory, which is connected to the GPU via a 128-bit memory interface. The RX 560 4GB supports DirectX 12, Vulkan, and OpenGL 4.5, making it compatible with a wide range of games and applications.
In terms of power consumption, the RX 560 4GB has a TDP of 80W, which is relatively low compared to more modern graphics cards. This makes it a good option for systems with lower power supplies or for those who want to build a more energy-efficient gaming PC. The RX 560 4GB also supports multiple display outputs, including DisplayPort, HDMI, and DVI, making it easy to connect to a variety of monitors and displays. Overall, the RX 560 4GB’s specifications make it a capable mid-range graphics card, but its performance may not be as strong as more recent models.
Can the RX 560 4GB handle 1080p gaming at high settings?
The RX 560 4GB can handle 1080p gaming, but its performance may vary depending on the game and the settings used. In general, the RX 560 4GB can handle less demanding games at high settings, but more demanding games may require medium or low settings to achieve smooth performance. For example, games like League of Legends, Dota 2, and Overwatch can run at high settings with frame rates above 60 FPS, while more demanding games like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey or The Witcher 3 may require lower settings to achieve playable frame rates.
In terms of specific frame rates, the RX 560 4GB can achieve frame rates of around 40-60 FPS in less demanding games at 1080p with high settings. However, more demanding games may see frame rates of around 20-40 FPS, which can be less smooth. To achieve higher frame rates, you may need to reduce the graphics settings or resolution, which can compromise the overall gaming experience. If you’re looking to play games at 1080p with high settings, you may want to consider a more powerful graphics card, such as the RX 580 or the GTX 1660.
How does the RX 560 4GB compare to the GTX 1050?
The RX 560 4GB and the GTX 1050 are both mid-range graphics cards from different manufacturers, and they have similar performance characteristics. The RX 560 4GB has a slight performance advantage over the GTX 1050, especially in games that utilize multiple cores and high memory bandwidth. However, the GTX 1050 has a lower power consumption and is generally quieter than the RX 560 4GB. In terms of price, the GTX 1050 is often cheaper than the RX 560 4GB, making it a more attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
In terms of specific performance differences, the RX 560 4GB tends to perform better in games that utilize AMD’s graphics technologies, such as Vulkan and DirectX 12. The GTX 1050, on the other hand, tends to perform better in games that utilize NVIDIA’s graphics technologies, such as CUDA and PhysX. Ultimately, the choice between the RX 560 4GB and the GTX 1050 will depend on your specific gaming needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more powerful graphics card with better performance in AMD-optimized games, the RX 560 4GB may be the better choice. If you’re looking for a more energy-efficient graphics card with better performance in NVIDIA-optimized games, the GTX 1050 may be the better choice.
Can the RX 560 4GB handle VR gaming?
The RX 560 4GB is not the best option for VR gaming, as it may not have enough power to handle the demanding graphics requirements of VR applications. While it can handle some VR games and experiences, it may not be able to provide the smooth and immersive experience that more powerful graphics cards can offer. In general, VR gaming requires a graphics card with at least 6 GB of VRAM and a high level of performance, which the RX 560 4GB does not have.
If you’re looking to get into VR gaming, you may want to consider a more powerful graphics card, such as the RX 580 or the GTX 1660. These graphics cards have more VRAM and better performance, making them more suitable for VR gaming. Additionally, you’ll need to ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements for VR gaming, including a powerful CPU, plenty of RAM, and a high-quality VR headset. The RX 560 4GB can still be used for some VR applications, but it may not be the best option for those who want a high-quality VR experience.
Is the RX 560 4GB still supported by AMD?
The RX 560 4GB is still supported by AMD, although it is no longer a current-generation product. AMD continues to release driver updates for the RX 560 4GB, which can help improve its performance and fix bugs. However, the frequency and scope of these updates may be limited compared to more recent graphics cards. Additionally, the RX 560 4GB may not be compatible with the latest graphics technologies and features, such as Radeon Image Sharpening or Radeon Anti-Lag.
In terms of warranty support, the RX 560 4GB is generally no longer under warranty, unless you purchased it recently or have an extended warranty. If you encounter any issues with your RX 560 4GB, you may need to rely on community support or third-party repair services. Despite this, the RX 560 4GB remains a popular graphics card among budget-conscious buyers, and its continued support by AMD ensures that it will remain a viable option for those who want a affordable and capable graphics card.
Can the RX 560 4GB be overclocked for better performance?
The RX 560 4GB can be overclocked to some extent, although its performance gains may be limited compared to more recent graphics cards. Overclocking the RX 560 4GB can help improve its performance in games and applications, but it may also increase its power consumption and heat generation. To overclock the RX 560 4GB, you’ll need to use specialized software, such as AMD’s WattMan or third-party tools like MSI Afterburner.
When overclocking the RX 560 4GB, it’s essential to monitor its temperatures and power consumption to avoid damaging the graphics card. You’ll also need to ensure that your system’s cooling and power supply can handle the increased demands of overclocking. In general, overclocking the RX 560 4GB can provide a 5-10% performance boost, although this may vary depending on the game or application. If you’re looking to squeeze more performance out of your RX 560 4GB, overclocking can be a viable option, but be sure to do so carefully and within safe limits.