Category: Gaming

  • COLORFUL X15 XS 2025 Gaming Laptop: RTX 3050, 144Hz, $699

    COLORFUL X15 XS 2025 Gaming Laptop: RTX 3050, 144Hz, $699

    Key Takeaways

    1. Affordable Pricing: The X15 XS 2025 gaming laptop is priced at $699, targeting budget-conscious gamers and creators.

    2. Solid Performance: It features a 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12500H processor and NVIDIA RTX 3050 GPU, suitable for 1080p gaming and creative tasks.

    3. Display Limitations: The 15.6-inch FHD screen has a 144Hz refresh rate, but its 250 nits brightness and 45% NTSC color gamut may not meet the needs of color-critical users.

    4. Upgrade Options: The laptop comes with 16GB of DDR4 RAM (expandable to 64GB) and 512GB NVMe SSD, plus an additional M.2 slot for extra storage.

    5. Enhanced Cooling and Modes: It uses Storm Blade 2.0 cooling technology and offers four operational modes for performance, entertainment, quiet use, and battery saving.


    COLORFUL has introduced the X15 XS 2025 gaming laptop, aimed at gamers and creators who are watching their budget. With a price tag of $699, this laptop comes in a sleek grey color and promises great mid-tier performance for its cost.

    Specifications and Performance

    The X15 XS 2025 is powered by a 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12500H processor and features an NVIDIA RTX 3050 GPU, making it suitable for 1080p gaming and creative projects. Weighing in at 2.1kg, it offers good portability for a gaming machine.

    Display and Usability

    The device has a 15.6-inch FHD screen with a refresh rate of 144Hz and an impressive 86% screen-to-body ratio. However, its brightness at 250 nits might not be ideal for outdoor use, and the 45% NTSC color gamut could fall short for those who need precise color reproduction.

    It packs 16GB of DDR4 RAM, which can be expanded up to 64GB, along with a 512GB NVMe SSD and an additional M.2 slot for more storage. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, HDMI 2.0, Mini DisplayPort 1.4, and several USB ports, featuring USB 3.2 Gen 2 for quicker data transfer.

    Cooling and Battery Life

    The laptop utilizes Storm Blade 2.0 cooling technology, which consists of four heat pipes and copper parts. Users can toggle between four different modes via the Control Center using Fn + Esc: Performance for gaming, Entertainment for videos, Quiet mode to lower noise, and Power-saving mode to enhance battery longevity. It’s equipped with a 54Wh battery and comes with a 150W adapter for speedy charging.

    Additional features include a 1MP HD webcam, Sound Blaster Cinema 6+ audio, and an anti-skid RGB keyboard. It runs on Windows 11 Home.

    Although the X15 XS 2025’s hardware is capable of handling 1080p gaming and creative tasks, the display’s limitations might not be suitable for color-critical work. Nevertheless, its core hardware and upgrade options make it an appealing choice within the sub-$700 price range. COLORFUL has announced that it will be available through global retail partners shortly.


  • Razer Blade 16 Pre-Orders: 16″ OLED 240Hz, Ryzen AI 9 & RTX 5090

    Razer Blade 16 Pre-Orders: 16″ OLED 240Hz, Ryzen AI 9 & RTX 5090

    Key Takeaways

    1. Razer’s new Blade 16 gaming laptop is available for pre-order, starting at $2,800, and features a slim design between 0.59 and 0.69 inches thick.

    2. The laptop combines AMD Ryzen AI 9 processors with NVIDIA RTX 50 Series GPUs, allowing users to switch between efficiency and power modes.

    3. The entry-level model includes a Ryzen AI 9 365 CPU, RTX 5070 Ti GPU, 32GB RAM, and 1TB SSD, while premium configurations can go up to $4,600 with upgraded specs.

    4. All models feature a 16-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2560×1600 and a 240Hz refresh rate, along with multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi 7 and USB4 ports.

    5. Razer also announced the Blade 18 (2025), featuring an 18-inch display and starting at $4,499, highlighting its position in the high-performance gaming laptop market.


    Razer has begun accepting pre-orders for its new Blade 16 gaming laptop, which was introduced at CES in January. This laptop is designed to deliver high-performance capabilities in a portable format, boasting top-notch specifications. The starting price is $2,800, and the sleek design measures between 0.59 and 0.69 inches thick. It combines AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 Strix Point processors with NVIDIA’s RTX 50 Series GPUs, utilizing a hybrid GPU setup that allows users to switch between efficiency and power.

    Specifications and Features

    The entry-level model is equipped with a Ryzen AI 9 365 CPU, an RTX 5070 Ti GPU, 32GB of LPDDR5x-8000 RAM, and a 1TB SSD. For those looking for more power, premium configurations can reach up to $4,600, featuring a Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, RTX 5090, 64GB of RAM, and 4TB of storage. It’s important to note that the RAM is soldered in place, which restricts upgrades after purchase. However, the laptop offers dual PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots for additional SSD expansion.

    Display and Connectivity

    Every model showcases a 16-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2560×1600 and a refresh rate of 240Hz. It also includes six speakers, a 1080p IR webcam, and a customizable RGB keyboard for a more personalized experience. Connectivity options are impressive, featuring Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, two USB4 Type-C ports, three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, HDMI 2.1, a microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack. The laptop’s weight is 4.71 pounds and is supported by a 90Wh battery and a 200W adapter.

    Source:
    Link


  • CyberPowerPC Safeguards Gamers with Full ROPs in RTX 50 GPUs

    CyberPowerPC Safeguards Gamers with Full ROPs in RTX 50 GPUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Performance Issues: About 0.5% of RTX 5090, RTX 5080, and RTX 5070 Ti cards have 8 fewer Render Output Units (ROPs), causing a performance drop of around 4% on average in games, with some benchmarks showing greater drops.

    2. Customer Support Concerns: Nvidia is directing affected customers to seek replacements from board partners, leaving many unsure of how to identify the problem.

    3. CyberPowerPC’s Commitment: CyberPowerPC is ensuring that customers receive fully operational RTX 50 cards with their pre-built gaming PCs, standing out as the only system integrator making this promise.

    4. Market Availability: Due to stock shortages, buying a pre-built PC remains a viable option to secure an RTX 5090/5080/5070 Ti at a fair price.

    5. Industry Best Practice: CyberPowerPC’s proactive approach to customer satisfaction highlights a valuable practice that other businesses in the industry should consider adopting.


    After dealing with a terrible launch stock that caused the prices of the RTX 50 GPUs to soar and power connectors to melt, the RTX 50 series is now caught in another problem regarding missing ROPs. According to Nvidia, about 0.5% of RTX 5090, RTX 5080, and RTX 5070 Ti cards have 8 fewer Render Output Units (ROPs) than what was promised. This leads to a drop in performance, which Nvidia claims is only about 4% on average in games. However, independent tests indicate that the performance drop can be greater in benchmarks like 3DMark Time Spy.

    Customer Frustration

    Sadly, Nvidia is telling affected customers to look into the issue themselves and reach out to their board partners for a replacement GPU. This situation leaves gamers who aren’t sure how to spot the problem stuck with a less capable RTX 50 GPU, which they likely purchased for much more than the suggested retail price. This is especially true for those who lack the skills to build their own rigs and tend to buy pre-built gaming PCs from companies like CyberPowerPC.

    A Positive Step

    On a brighter note, CyberPowerPC has stepped up to make sure that customers who choose an RTX 50 gaming PC receive one with a fully operational card. As of now, it appears that CyberPowerPC is the only system integrator providing such a promise.

    A Good Move for Gamers

    Putting aside the oddity that a system integrator has to safeguard its customers against Nvidia’s mistake, this is definitely a smart move by CyberPowerPC. With significant stock shortages in the market, purchasing a pre-built PC remains one of the few options to secure an RTX 5090/5080/5070 Ti at a fair price. Therefore, CyberPowerPC’s commitment to giving its customers peace of mind is a commendable practice that other businesses should consider following.

    Source:
    Link

  • Ayaneo Confirms Flip 2 Release, Denies Flip Series Discontinuation

    Ayaneo Confirms Flip 2 Release, Denies Flip Series Discontinuation

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo clarified that the Ayaneo Flip is not discontinued; production will resume after some time due to high demand.
    2. There is no specific date for the restart of production, but Ayaneo plans to produce several hundred more units in the next three months.
    3. The company has successfully shipped 98% of Flip crowdfunding orders, with only 18 outstanding.
    4. The Ayaneo Flip series will continue with future models featuring enhanced hardware and new functionalities.
    5. Ayaneo commits to ongoing after-sales service and clear communication with Flip owners through various channels.


    Following rumors about the discontinuation of the Ayaneo Flip, the Chinese company has released a statement to clear up the confusion. They have also shared information regarding the future of the Flip series.

    Clarification on Production Status

    An update shared today (February 28) on the Indiegogo page for the Ayaneo Flip reveals that claims about the Flip being discontinued are incorrect. This misunderstanding arose from a previous statement that was not interpreted correctly.

    The statement suggested that there are no plans for immediate production of the AYANEO FLIP. However, Ayaneo clarified that this means they are not starting production right away, but will do so after some time. This decision is linked to last year’s choice to make more units due to persistent demand.

    Future Production Plans

    Currently, there is no specific date for when production will start up again, as it relies on smooth coordination with their supply chain. Nevertheless, Ayaneo has announced that they plan to produce several hundred more Ayaneo Flip units within the next three months. These additional units will be sold globally through official channels. Ayaneo also noted that they have successfully shipped 98% of Flip crowdfunding orders, leaving only 18 orders outstanding.

    Continuation of the Flip Series

    The latest announcement also indicates that the Ayaneo Flip will not be a one-off product, as the series is set to continue. Ayaneo promises that future models will maintain the same distinctive design, but will feature enhanced hardware performance and new functionalities.

    Ayaneo reassures Flip owners that they will provide ongoing after-sales service and technical support indefinitely. They are also dedicated to maintaining clear communication through their official website, social media, and Indiegogo updates.

    Source:
    Link

  • AMD RX 9060 GPU: RDNA 4 and FSR 4 for Entry-Level Gaming

    AMD RX 9060 GPU: RDNA 4 and FSR 4 for Entry-Level Gaming

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD announced specifications, pricing, and features for the RDNA 4 architecture’s Radeon RX 9070 and 9070 XT graphics cards.
    2. The RX 9070 and 9070 XT are positioned as mid-range GPUs, offering excellent performance at an attractive price.
    3. AMD aims to strengthen its position in the GPU market with these new models.
    4. An upcoming RX 9060 is set to target entry-level users, competing with Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 5060.
    5. AMD shared the announcement via their YouTube channel to engage with the community and provide updates.


    AMD has officially announced the details regarding the specifications, pricing, and features of the RDNA 4 architecture’s AMD Radeon RX 9070 and 9070 XT graphics cards. These GPUs are looking like a great option for those in the mid-range market. Additionally, AMD hinted at the upcoming release of the RX 9060, which is expected to be an entry-level graphics card aimed at competing with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 once it hits the market.

    Mid-Range Performance

    The RX 9070 and 9070 XT promise to deliver excellent performance without breaking the bank. The launch price for these GPUs has been set, making them an attractive choice for gamers who want good performance without spending too much. With these new models, AMD is trying to strengthen their position in the competitive GPU market.

    Upcoming Entry-Level GPU

    Moreover, AMD is gearing up to introduce the RX 9060, which is likely to cater to those who are looking for an affordable GPU option. This card will probably go head-to-head with Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 5060, which is expected to be launched in the near future. AMD’s strategy appears to be focused on capturing a broader audience by offering various options across different price ranges.

    AMD’s announcement was made through their YouTube channel, where they shared insights into the capabilities of the new GPUs. This move shows that AMD is keen on engaging with its community and keeping them updated on the latest developments in their product lineup.

    Source:
    Link

  • Xbox Co-Creator Dismisses VR Gaming as Sony Cuts PSVR 2 Price

    Xbox Co-Creator Dismisses VR Gaming as Sony Cuts PSVR 2 Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony plans to reduce the PSVR 2 headset price to $400 in March to attract more users amidst sluggish PS5 sales.
    2. Seamus Blackley argues that VR gaming lacks a standout game and a compelling narrative to engage players effectively.
    3. Blackley critiques the current state of VR, suggesting gamers need a strong story instead of aimless exploration in virtual worlds.
    4. There are concerns about the comfort of VR headsets, even as they become easier to wear; this sentiment is shared by Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer.
    5. The lack of investment from developers in the PSVR 2 has led to a shortage of recent AAA titles, while the Meta Quest series shows demand for a wireless VR experience.


    Despite the sluggish sales of Xbox consoles, the PSVR 2 hasn’t emerged as a strong reason for gamers to choose a PS5. In a bid to attract more users, Sony plans to decrease the price of the VR headset to $400 starting in March. Seamus Blackley, who co-created the first Xbox, has shared his views on the current situation of VR gaming. He argues that VR is missing a standout game or the framework needed to fully engage players in various titles.

    Blackley’s Background and Views on VR

    After meeting Bill Gates in 1999, Blackley persuaded Microsoft to develop a console to compete with the Sony PlayStation 2. After leaving the company, he has worked on projects involving augmented reality. While Blackley embraces new technology, he has some critiques regarding the role of VR in today’s gaming environment.

    The Need for Narrative in VR

    On the VideoGamer Podcast, Blackley mentioned that while VR offers gamers a sense of freedom, it lacks a solid purpose. He believes that instead of wandering aimlessly in virtual worlds, gamers require a compelling story to lead them. Up until now, developers have faced challenges in combining an engaging gaming experience with VR technology.

    Critiques on Headset Comfort and Market Trends

    Blackley’s remarks about the awkwardness of VR headsets might seem tough, given that the devices have become easier to wear. Nonetheless, even with Microsoft Windows supporting Meta Quest VR headsets, Phil Spencer concurs with Blackley’s opinion. Xbox is shifting towards a multi-platform approach, and the CEO of Microsoft Gaming is against any wired device that links only to one console.

    It appears that game developers are hesitant to invest in the PSVR 2, resulting in a lack of recent AAA titles that are compatible. Sony has even introduced a PC adapter to enhance the headset’s appeal. The Meta Quest series demonstrates that there is demand for a wireless alternative with a large application library. If more consumers show interest in a high-end VR gaming experience, Microsoft might reconsider its current position.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Monster Hunter Wilds Poor Performance on Steam Deck: Players Struggle

    Monster Hunter Wilds Poor Performance on Steam Deck: Players Struggle

    Key Takeaways

    1. Performance Concerns: Players experienced pixelated visuals and inconsistent frame rates on the Steam Deck, despite Capcom’s assurances of improved rendering.

    2. Compatibility Issues: Monster Hunter Wilds is not officially listed as compatible with the Steam Deck, leading to performance challenges even with setting adjustments.

    3. Framerate Challenges: Maintaining a stable framerate near 30fps is difficult, even with upscaling techniques, making gameplay frustrating for Steam Deck users.

    4. Alternative Devices: Other handhelds like the Asus ROG Ally and MSI Claw 8 AI+ show better performance for the game, but expectations should be tempered due to issues with mid-range graphics cards.

    5. Cloud Gaming Limitations: Cloud gaming options like GeForce Now are not supported for Monster Hunter Wilds, limiting mobile gaming possibilities for players.


    Players were worried about how well the Steam Deck would perform during the open beta of Monster Hunter Wilds. Capcom had assured fans that rendering would be improved, which could benefit the handheld. Sadly, once the final version was released, gamers noticed pixelated visuals and frame rates that were all over the place.

    Compatibility Issues

    On its official Steam page, Monster Hunter Wilds does not show as compatible with the Steam Deck. Nevertheless, some games without this designation manage to run just fine on the device. Resourceful players often find ways to tweak their settings to work around the limitations. Still, many are discovering that Monster Hunter Wilds does not perform well, no matter the adjustments made.

    Performance Challenges

    Many players have shared videos showcasing Capcom’s new game on the Steam Deck. Even when using upscaling or FSR, it’s a challenge to keep the framerate near 30fps. On a brighter note, upscaling doesn’t seem to add noticeable lag when players are trying to catch monsters. Reducing the detail settings can help, but the overall performance is so lacking that players on the Steam Deck are looking for other options.

    Alternatives for Better Gameplay

    The Asus ROG Ally and MSI Claw 8 AI+, which run on Windows 11, are showing more power. Early feedback indicates that these systems provide slightly better performance with Monster Hunter Wilds. However, since mid-range Nvidia and AMD desktop graphics cards are having their own issues, mobile gamers should manage their expectations. A harsh review from Digital Foundry highlighted that frame rates were not matching up with the disappointing graphical quality.

    Cloud gaming could also be a way to enjoy hunting monsters while on the move. GeForce Now is an option that many would prefer for streaming, but, like other titles in the franchise, Monster Hunter Wilds isn’t supported. The cloud gaming situation on Xbox isn’t looking better either.

    At the moment, Monster Hunter Wilds isn’t the best choice for Steam Deck players. That said, the game does load up, and controls work without issues. If Capcom can manage to optimize the game further, any enhancements may eventually benefit portable PCs as well.

    Source:
    Link


  • Get $3,200 in Game Bundles for Only $10 – 99% Discount!

    Get $3,200 in Game Bundles for Only $10 – 99% Discount!

    Key Takeaways

    1. The “California Fire Relief Bundle” aims to support victims of recent wildfires in California, with proceeds going to CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort).
    2. The bundle includes a vast collection of 189 board games, 187 PC games, and various digital items, making it a diverse offering for purchasers.
    3. Notable games in the bundle include Tunic, Cook, Serve, Delicious 2, Before The Green Moon, and Octodad: Dadliest Catch.
    4. The bundle is priced at just $10, with the option for buyers to donate more if they wish, making it an affordable way to contribute to a good cause.
    5. Many games are available on multiple platforms, including Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and web browsers, increasing accessibility for players.


    Once again, itch.io is putting together a bundle packed with gaming goodies for a worthy cause. Following the “Help For Ukraine” bundle from a few years back, the latest offering is the “California Fire Relief Bundle,” aimed at helping victims of the recent wildfires in California. Except for some small processing fees, all the money raised will go to CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort), a non-profit based in Los Angeles that assists survivors of emergencies and focuses on rebuilding efforts. Overall, it’s another noble initiative, but the vast amount of content can be a bit much to take in. It’s likely that many purchasers of the “Help For Ukraine” bundle didn’t experience every game, book, or item included.

    What’s Inside the Bundle

    This bundle features 189 board games, complete with printable templates, alongside nineteen game assets, seventeen digital books, four comics, two tools, a mod, and three extra items. The PC games will probably catch the eye of most buyers. In total, there are 187 games, with many available on various systems: 167 for Windows, 87 for MacOS, 65 for Linux, five for Android, and 11 that can be played directly in a web browser.

    Noteworthy Games to Check Out

    Some highlights from the bundle are the Zelda-inspired game Tunic, the cooking simulation Cook, Serve, Delicious 2, the farming simulation Before The Green Moon, the puzzle-platformer Hoa, the JRPG Fallen Legion: Rise To Glory, the physics-based comedy Octodad: Dadliest Catch, the skateboarding simulation SkateBird (which is like Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater but with a bird), the 2D horror adventure Whispering Willows, the historically accurate visual novel Assassination 1942, and the cat destruction simulator Catlateral Damage: Remeowstered, among others. If you want to explore before purchasing, you can utilize different filters. However, at just $10 for such a good cause, this bundle is an absolute steal, whether or not you manage to play every game included. Additionally, buyers have the option to donate more than $10 if they choose to do so.

    Source:
    Link

  • Iqunix EZ63 and EZ60 Keyboards Update: On-Board Profiles Added

    Iqunix EZ63 and EZ60 Keyboards Update: On-Board Profiles Added

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new beta firmware update for the Iqunix EZ63 and EZ60 improves software issues, resolves bugs, and enhances the Rapid Trigger feature.
    2. Users can now access three distinct keyboard profiles (Custom, Office, and Esports) with individual Rapid Trigger and actuation force settings.
    3. The update introduces a hot-key (Fn+Q) to toggle SOCD on and off, with a visual indication via RGB lights.
    4. Berserk Mode is a new feature allowing a Rapid Trigger sensitivity of 0.005 mm, currently only available with Gateron Magnetic Jade Pro switches.
    5. Iqunix is actively seeking community feedback on Discord regarding updates and features.


    We recently took a look at the Iqunix EZ63 Hall-effect gaming keyboard. While its hardware and build quality make it a strong contender for the top Hall-effect gaming keyboard, we found that the software and firmware left something to be desired. Now, a new beta firmware update for both the Iqunix EZ63 and EZ60 addresses a common issue noted among the Hall-effect keyboard series, resolves several bugs, and enhances the Rapid Trigger feature. This update brings some of the promised features from Iqunix that were expected by the end of Q2, with just the macro functionality pending. Users who are already on a previous beta firmware version will receive a prompt to update when they visit beta.iqunix.com. It’s important to note that this update will reset the keyboard mapping and other personalized settings.

    New Profiles Available

    As of February 27, users with the beta firmware on their Iqunix Hall-effect keyboards can now access three distinct keyboard profiles: Custom, Office, and Esports. Each profile comes with its own Rapid Trigger and actuation force settings.

    In our review of the EZ63, we pointed out the absence of a profile-switching feature. This limitation meant users were locked into the settings they configured for specific gaming sessions. Consequently, it turned the EZ63 into a gaming-only keyboard if you tailored things like actuation points and Rapid Trigger for different games. This made it challenging to fine-tune the keyboard for general gaming use. The introduction of profiles does help alleviate this problem, but it still feels like a temporary fix; having several fully customizable profiles would be a better solution.

    New Features and Updates

    With the new beta firmware, EZ63 and EZ60 users can also use a new hot-key to toggle SOCD on and off without needing to access the browser-based software. This is especially useful for gamers playing titles that have banned this contested feature. Activating SOCD with the Fn+Q shortcut will cause the WASD keys’ RGB lights to glow green for a short time, while turning it off will make them temporarily red.

    Another interesting feature introduced in the latest beta firmware is Berserk Mode, which allows for a Rapid Trigger sensitivity of 0.005 mm after the actuation point. Iqunix has mentioned that this feature is still being tested, but they aim to refine it in the future. Currently, this setting is only available with the Gateron Magnetic Jade Pro switches (currently priced at $57.99 on Amazon), which are the priciest switch option for the EZ60 and EZ63. There’s still no word on whether the Star Trail or other Gateron switch types will also support the Berserk Mode feature.

    Community Feedback on Discord

    Iqunix has been actively engaging with users on Discord about these updates and features.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT & RX 9070: 4K Performance at 1440p Prices

    AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT & RX 9070: 4K Performance at 1440p Prices

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD is launching the RDNA 4 architecture with the Radeon RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 graphics cards, focusing on the midrange market due to strong competition from Nvidia in the high-end segment.

    2. The RX 9070 XT features 64 compute units, peak INT4 performance of 1,557 AI TOPS, and 16 GB GDDR6 memory, while the RX 9070 has 56 compute units and slightly lower specifications.

    3. Both cards support PCIe Gen 5 x16 and HDMI 2.1b, with the RX 9070 outperforming the RX 6800 XT and RTX 3080 by significant margins in 4K gaming and ray tracing.

    4. The RX 9070 XT is marketed as being 51% faster than the RX 6900 XT and 26% quicker than the RTX 3090; both models show impressive performance gains over the RX 7900 GRE.

    5. The RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT will be available from various AMD partners starting March 6, with prices set at $599 and $549, respectively, but AMD will not offer Made by AMD cards for this launch.


    AMD is launching its RDNA 4 technology with the new Radeon RX 9070 XT and Radeon RX 9070 graphics cards. This time around, AMD is taking a more cautious approach by focusing on the midrange market, as it seems more challenging to compete with Nvidia’s stronghold in the high-end GPU market. The release of the GeForce RTX 5090 has only increased the gap.

    RDNA 4 Architecture Highlights

    We have previously covered key features of the RDNA 4 architecture in a separate piece. The Radeon RX 7900 XTX and RX 7900 XT were designed for gamers focused on 4K resolution, while the RX 7900 GRE was tailored for 1440p gaming. With the RX 9070 XT and RX 9070, AMD aims to deliver a solid 4K gaming experience at prices that are more aligned with 1440p.

    Specifications and Performance

    The RX 9070 XT, the top model, includes 64 compute units (CUs) and can achieve a peak INT4 performance of 1,557 AI TOPS with Sparsity. Both models come equipped with 256-bit 20 Gbps 16 GB GDDR6 memory, providing a bandwidth of 640 GB/s.

    With the new RDNA 4 architecture, both the RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 feature third-generation ray accelerators and AI accelerators. The RX 9070 XT can boost up to 2.97 GHz with a total board power (TBP) of 304 W, while the RX 9070, which has 56 CUs, can reach 2.52 GHz with a TBP of 220 W.

    Competitive Edge

    Both cards support a PCIe Gen 5 x16 interface and include the latest DisplayPort 2.1a and HDMI 2.1b outputs. AMD claims that the Radeon RX 9070 is 38% and 26% faster than the $649 RX 6800 XT and the $699 GeForce RTX 3080 when running at 4K. Compared to the RX 7900 GRE, the RX 9070 is on average 21% quicker, with a maximum of 28% higher performance in native 4K and up to 34% faster in ray tracing scenarios.

    In 1440p resolution, the RX 9070 reportedly outperforms the RX 7900 GRE by as much as 26%, with ray tracing performance up to 38% higher.

    AMD promotes the RX 9070 XT as being 51% faster than the $999 RX 6900 XT and 26% quicker than the $1,499 RTX 3090. Again, comparisons with the RX 7900 GRE reveal gains of up to 28% in native 4K and 34% in ray tracing.

    Game Testing and Future Competition

    At 1440p, the RX 9070 XT achieves similar performance improvements in native and ray tracing tasks as the RX 9070. All games were evaluated on an AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D system with 32 GB of DDR5-6000, as noted in the fine print.

    It’s still unclear how these cards will stack up against the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti and the anticipated RTX 5070, which is expected to be launched on March 5.

    While AMD appears to be making strides to align its GPUs with midrange competition, the true test will come once we can evaluate the cards ourselves. Currently, Nvidia maintains a more robust software ecosystem.

    Unlike Nvidia, AMD won’t be offering Made by AMD (MBA) cards for this launch. Nevertheless, AMD’s add-in board (AiB) partners, including Acer, Asus, ASRock, PowerColor, Gigabyte, XFX, Sapphire, Yeston, and Vastarmor, will have multiple designs of the RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT available starting March 6.

    The AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT is set at a price of $599 SEP, while the RX 9070 is anticipated to retail for $549 SEP.

    Source:
    Link