RX 480: Custom Cooler Release Dates, OC Info, Benchmarks & More

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

• Brief overview of the topic
• Importance of the RX 480 GPU

2. Newegg listing of RX 480

• Availability and pricing of the RX 480 on Newegg
• Absence of custom cards and their expected release date

3. Sapphire and the AMD Overdrive

• Renaming of AMD Overdrive to Radeon Whatman
• Features and capabilities of the overclocking tool

4. Conflicting information on overclocking results

• Reports on standard clock speed and retailers going higher
• Varying overclocking results and stability of RX 480
• Recommendations on overclocking and expectations

5. Temperature and fan speed issues

• Reports on RX 480 reaching high temperatures
• Factors influencing temperature and potential solutions
• Importance of proper cooling for overclocking

6. Performance benchmarks and leaks

• 3DMark scores and consistency
• Potential performance in games like Doom and GTA
• Speculation on driver optimization and final performance

7. Choosing between RX 480 and other GPUs

• Considerations for purchasing decisions
• Advice for waiting and evaluating options
• Supply chain and availability of other GPUs

8. Conclusion

• Summary of key points and recommendations
• Appreciation for watching and upcoming reviews

🖥️ The RX 480: An In-Depth Analysis of Performance and Overclockability

The RX 480 has been generating a lot of buzz among gaming enthusiasts as its release date draws near. In this article, we will delve into various aspects of this highly anticipated GPU, including overclocking results, performance benchmarks, and the availability of custom cards. So, let's dive right in!

1. Introduction

The RX 480 is set to make its grand entrance into the GPU market. With its impressive specifications and affordable price point, it has captured the attention of gamers and tech enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will explore the key features and capabilities of the RX 480, as well as delve into overclocking potential and performance benchmarks.

2. Newegg listing of RX 480

The RX 480 has recently appeared on Newegg, giving eager consumers a glimpse of what to expect in terms of pricing and availability. The four gigabyte model of the RX 480 is listed at around $200, which falls in line with previous expectations. However, there seems to be a delay in the release of custom cards, as they are not available at launch. We can expect custom cards to hit the market by mid-July, providing users with more options in terms of cooling and aesthetics.

3. Sapphire and the AMD Overdrive

Sapphire, a prominent graphics card manufacturer, accidentally unveiled the RX 480 page, shedding light on some interesting details. One notable change is the renaming of AMD Overdrive to Radeon Whatman. This revamp of the overclocking tool introduces new functionality, allowing users to manipulate clock states and fan speeds based on power draw. While it remains to be seen if power users will adopt this tool over popular alternatives like MSI Afterburner, it is a promising step forward in terms of software development.

4. Conflicting information on overclocking results

Overclocking the RX 480 has become a topic of heated debate, with conflicting reports emerging regarding its capabilities. While the standard clock speed of the RX 480 hovers around 1266 MHz, some retailers claim the ability to achieve higher clock speeds. However, there are instances where users have struggled to push the clock speeds beyond 1350-1400 MHz, experiencing crashes at higher frequencies. It is important to note that the RX 480 remains stable even at high clock speeds, mitigating thermal throttling concerns. However, it is crucial to set realistic expectations when it comes to overclocking, as every piece of hardware has its limitations.

5. Temperature and fan speed issues

One area of concern for RX 480 users is the temperature of the card under load. Reports suggest that the RX 480 can reach temperatures of 70-80 degrees Celsius, which has sparked discussions about inadequate fan speeds. Some users argue that this issue may stem from not adjusting the fan speed to higher levels. While it is difficult to draw a definitive conclusion without comprehensive data, it is important for users to monitor temperatures and adjust fan speeds accordingly to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the GPU.

6. Performance benchmarks and leaks

Performance benchmarks have started to emerge, giving us a glimpse of what the RX 480 is capable of. 3DMark scores have shown consistent performance in the high 1200s for basic overclocking. For maximum overclocking, the average clock speed reaches around 1400 MHz, which is impressive considering the price point of the RX 480. Leaked gameplay footage of games like Doom and GTA showcase the RX 480 performing on par with the NVIDIA GTX 980, sparking excitement among gamers. However, it is important to remember that these leaks may not reflect the final optimized performance, and driver updates could further enhance the RX 480's capabilities.

7. Choosing between RX 480 and other GPUs

Deciding which GPU to purchase can be a daunting task, especially with the release of highly competitive options like the RX 480. If you are uncertain about your decision, it is advisable to wait a couple of weeks. This will allow you to Gather more information about the aftermarket coolers and stability of the RX 480, as well as observe the state of supply chains for other GPUs. Additionally, if you can afford a GTX 1080, it may be a better option for a superior gaming experience. However, if saving money and having FreeSync compatibility are priorities, the RX 480 is an excellent choice.

8. Conclusion

In conclusion, the RX 480 offers an impressive Blend of performance and affordability. While overclocking capabilities may vary, it remains a fantastic option for budget-conscious gamers. Waiting a few weeks to evaluate the performance of custom cards and driver optimizations is a prudent move. We hope you found this article informative and invite you to stay tuned for our upcoming reviews. Thank you for reading, and happy gaming!

Highlights

• The RX 480 has garnered significant attention for its affordable price and impressive specifications.
• Custom cards for the RX 480 are expected to be available by mid-July, offering users more options for cooling and aesthetics.
• Sapphire has revamped the AMD Overdrive tool, renaming it Radeon Whatman. This introduces new features for overclocking and fan control.
• Reports on overclocking results vary, with some users reaching clock speeds of 1600 MHz while others struggle to surpass 1400 MHz.
• The temperature and fan speed of the RX 480 have sparked discussions, with users advised to monitor and adjust fan speeds accordingly.
• Performance benchmarks, although not conclusive, show promising results comparable to the GTX 980 in games like Doom and GTA.
• When faced with the decision between the RX 480 and other GPUs, waiting a few weeks to assess aftermarket coolers and driver optimizations is a wise choice.
• The RX 480 offers great value for budget-conscious gamers, while higher-end options like the GTX 1080 may provide a superior gaming experience.

FAQ

Q: When will custom cards for the RX 480 be available? A: Custom cards are expected to be available by mid-July, providing users with options beyond the reference design.

Q: Is the RX 480 suitable for overclocking? A: Overclocking results vary, with some users able to achieve high clock speeds while others face limitations. It is important to set realistic expectations and monitor temperatures when overclocking.

Q: Should I wait for aftermarket coolers before purchasing the RX 480? A: If you prioritize optimal cooling and potentially higher overclocking capabilities, waiting for aftermarket coolers may be advisable. However, if you need a GPU immediately, the RX 480 still offers great value.

Q: How does the RX 480 compare to higher-end options like the GTX 1080? A: The GTX 1080 offers superior performance but comes at a higher price point. If you can afford it and prioritize maximum performance, the GTX 1080 may be a better choice.

Q: Are there any supply chain issues affecting the availability of GPUs? A: Supply chain issues have been reported, particularly for the GTX 1080 and GTX 1070. Waiting a few weeks may allow for better availability and a more informed purchasing decision.