5700xt vs 2070 Super: Which GPU Reigns Supreme?
Are you building a new gaming PC or looking to upgrade your current rig? Choosing the right graphics card can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Today, we’re diving headfirst into a classic battle: the AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT versus the Nvidia GeForce RTX 2070 Super.
Both the 5700xt and the 2070 Super were powerhouses in their prime, offering excellent performance for 1080p and 1440p gaming. This comparison aims to break down the strengths and weaknesses of each card, helping you make an informed decision based on your needs and budget. We’ll examine their performance in various games, considering factors like frame rates, features, and overall value.
Get ready to discover which GPU comes out on top in the ultimate showdown. We’ll analyze their specifications, benchmark results, and real-world gaming experiences to provide a comprehensive comparison. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which card is the better fit for your gaming setup.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | 5700 XT | 2070 SUPER |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | RDNA | Turing |
| Process Size | 7nm | 12nm |
| CUDA Cores / Stream Processors | 2560 | 2560 |
| Boost Clock | Up to 1925 MHz | Up to 1770 MHz |
| Memory | 8GB GDDR6 | 8GB GDDR6 |
| Memory Bus | 256-bit | 256-bit |
| TDP | 225W | 215W |
| Ray Tracing | No | Yes |
| DirectX Support | 12 | 12 |
| Display Outputs | HDMI 2.0b, DisplayPort 1.4 | HDMI 2.0b, DisplayPort 1.4 |
| Tensor Cores | No | Yes |
| Release Date | July 2019 | July 2019 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Architecture
- 5700xt: Based on AMD’s RDNA architecture, the 5700 XT offers improved performance and efficiency compared to previous generations. It utilizes a 7nm manufacturing process. Some users may find driver issues to be a con.
- 2070 Super: Built on NVIDIA’s Turing architecture, the 2070 Super provides excellent ray tracing capabilities and DLSS support. It’s built on a 12nm manufacturing process. Some may find the price to be a con.
- Winner: 2070 Super
Raw Performance (Gaming)
- 5700xt: Generally offers similar performance to the 2070 Super in many games, often trading blows depending on the specific title and settings. It often excels at higher resolutions.
- 2070 Super: Typically performs slightly better than the 5700 XT in most games, especially those optimized for NVIDIA’s features. It provides a consistently smooth gaming experience.
- Winner: 2070 Super
Ray Tracing
- 5700xt: Does not have dedicated hardware for ray tracing, making its performance in ray-traced games significantly lower.
- 2070 Super: Features dedicated RT cores for ray tracing, enabling better performance and visual fidelity in games that support it.
- Winner: 2070 Super
DLSS/Upscaling Technology
- 5700xt: Lacks a direct equivalent to NVIDIA’s DLSS technology, relying on other upscaling methods.
- 2070 Super: Supports DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling), which can improve performance and image quality in supported games.
- Winner: 2070 Super
Memory
- 5700xt: Equipped with 8GB of GDDR6 memory, offering ample capacity for modern games at high resolutions.
- 2070 Super: Also has 8GB of GDDR6 memory, providing a similar memory capacity for gaming.
- Winner: Tie
Power Consumption
- 5700xt: Generally consumes less power than the 2070 Super, contributing to lower heat output.
- 2070 Super: Consumes more power compared to the 5700 XT, resulting in higher heat output.
- Winner: 5700xt
Pricing
- 5700xt: Typically was priced slightly lower than the 2070 Super, offering a good price-to-performance ratio.
- 2070 Super: Generally had a higher price tag due to its features and performance.
- Winner: 5700xt
Features (Software)
- 5700xt: AMD offers features like FreeSync, which can be useful for reducing screen tearing. Driver issues were sometimes a concern.
- 2070 Super: NVIDIA provides features like ShadowPlay for recording gameplay and G-Sync, which can enhance the gaming experience.
- Winner: 2070 Super
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Raw Performance (Average) | 2070 SUPER |
| Ray Tracing | 2070 SUPER |
| Value | 5700 XT |
| Features | 2070 SUPER |
What They Have in Common:
- Memory: Both cards are equipped with 8GB of GDDR6 memory, ensuring sufficient capacity for modern games at high resolutions.
- Memory Bus: Both GPUs feature a 256-bit memory bus, which contributes to their overall memory bandwidth and performance.
- Directx 12 Support: Both cards fully support DirectX 12, offering access to the latest graphics features and optimizations.
- Display Outputs: Both cards provide similar display output options, including HDMI 2.0b and DisplayPort 1.4, allowing for multi-monitor setups.
- Release Date: Both cards were released in July 2019, making them contemporaries in the GPU market.
5700XT vs 2070 Super Buying Guide
Performance Considerations
When deciding between the RX 5700 XT and the RTX 2070 Super, raw performance is a primary factor. The 2070 Super generally offers slightly better performance, especially at higher resolutions and with ray tracing enabled. However, the 5700 XT can often hold its own, especially when considering the price difference. Benchmarks show a close race in many games, with the 2070 Super pulling ahead in some and the 5700 XT performing admirably in others. Consider your preferred resolution and game selection.
Price-to-Performance Ratio
The price-to-performance ratio is crucial for budget-conscious buyers. The 5700 XT, when it was available, typically offered a better price-to-performance ratio than the 2070 Super. This means you got more performance for your dollar. However, used market prices and current availability significantly impact this. Assess current market pricing for both cards. Factor in potential driver issues that may affect the 5700 XT.
Ray Tracing Capabilities
The RTX 2070 Super, being an Nvidia card, supports ray tracing, a technology that enhances visual realism in games. The 5700 XT, as an AMD card, does not offer hardware-accelerated ray tracing. If ray tracing is important to you, the 2070 Super is the clear choice. However, keep in mind that ray tracing can significantly impact performance, even on the 2070 Super. Consider whether the visual enhancements justify the performance cost.
AMD vs. Nvidia Ecosystem
Consider the broader ecosystem. Nvidia has a strong presence in the gaming market, with features like DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) which can improve performance. AMD, however, has made significant strides with its drivers and software. AMD’s Radeon Software offers features like Radeon Anti-Lag and FidelityFX, aimed at improving performance and visual quality. Consider which ecosystem’s features and software are more appealing to you.
Power Consumption and Cooling
Power consumption and cooling are important factors, especially if you have a smaller power supply or are concerned about noise. The 2070 Super and 5700 XT have similar power requirements. Ensure your power supply has enough wattage for either card, and consider the cooling solutions offered by different manufacturers. Check reviews to assess the noise levels and thermal performance of specific models. Both cards can run hot if not cooled properly.
Availability and Market Conditions
Availability is crucial. The used market dominates for both cards. Check the availability of each card in your region, as prices fluctuate wildly. Look at the used market prices and compare those to the modern day cards. Consider warranty and seller reputation when buying used. Factor in shipping costs and return policies. The best deal depends heavily on the current market conditions and your willingness to buy used.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy 5700 XT If…
- You prioritize a slightly lower price point.
- You primarily play games and don’t require ray tracing.
- You are looking for strong performance at 1080p or 1440p resolutions.
- You value the availability of FreeSync technology if you have a compatible monitor.
Buy 2070 SUPER If…
- You want access to ray tracing capabilities for a more immersive gaming experience.
- You desire slightly higher performance in some games, particularly at higher resolutions.
- You prefer NVIDIA’s features like DLSS.
- You are willing to spend a bit more for the added features and potentially higher performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the RX 5700 XT and the RTX 2070 Super?
The RTX 2070 Super generally offers slightly better performance, especially with ray tracing, a feature absent on the 5700 XT. The 5700 XT, however, often provided a better price-to-performance ratio, making it a more budget-friendly option. Both cards are now primarily available on the used market, which affects the value proposition of each.
Which card is better for 1080p gaming?
Both cards are excellent for 1080p gaming. The 5700 XT and the 2070 Super can easily handle 1080p resolutions at high refresh rates. The 2070 Super might offer a slight edge in some games, but the difference is often negligible. The choice depends on the specific games played and the price difference.
Does the RTX 2070 Super support ray tracing?
Yes, the RTX 2070 Super supports ray tracing, Nvidia’s technology for enhanced visual realism. This allows for more realistic lighting, shadows, and reflections in compatible games. However, enabling ray tracing can significantly reduce frame rates, especially at higher resolutions, requiring a balance between visual quality and performance.
Is the RX 5700 XT still a good card in 2024?
The RX 5700 XT remains a capable card, especially for 1080p and 1440p gaming. Its performance is still competitive with some newer cards. However, the used market prices and availability are crucial factors to consider, as are the potential risks associated with used hardware like potential defects or lack of warranty.
Which card consumes more power?
Both cards have similar power requirements, typically needing a 650W or higher power supply for a stable system. The actual power consumption varies depending on the specific model and the game being played. Ensure your power supply has adequate wattage and connectors to handle either card without any issues.
What are the potential drawbacks of buying a used RX 5700 XT or RTX 2070 Super?
Buying used cards carries risks. Potential issues include unknown wear and tear, potential for overheating, and a lack of warranty. Check the card’s history and ensure it has been well-maintained. Always test the card thoroughly upon receipt and consider the seller’s reputation and return policy before making a purchase.
Which card is better for overclocking?
Both the RX 5700 XT and RTX 2070 Super offer overclocking potential. The actual overclocking performance depends on the specific card model and cooling solution. Some models are designed with better cooling and power delivery, allowing for higher overclocks. Research specific models to determine their overclocking capabilities.
Final Verdict
The RTX 2070 Super often edges out the RX 5700 XT in overall performance, particularly with ray tracing. However, the 5700 XT, if available at a significantly lower price, presents a compelling value proposition. The best choice depends on your budget, desired features (like ray tracing), and the current market prices. Consider the used market risks and availability.
Winner: RTX 2070 Super