4GB vs. 8GB VRAM: The 1080p Benchmark
AMD is launching a 4GB GPU in 2026, so we revisited the Radeon RX 6500 XT to see how 4GB and 8GB versions compare in modern games. The results are predictably ugly. Read Entire Article
In 2026, AMD has released a new Radeon RX 9050 GPU with 4GB of VRAM, which is a significant downgrade from its 8GB counterpart. This decision seems questionable, as the 4GB model shares the same name as the 8GB version and is sold only through retail channels. The RX 9050's smaller VRAM capacity and reduced memory bandwidth (144 GB/s) compared to the 8GB model (288 GB/s) will result in lower performance, especially in modern games.
In benchmark tests, the 4GB and 8GB versions of the RX 6500 XT show almost identical performance, indicating that 4GB of VRAM is sufficient for low-end, entry-level gaming. Games like Crimson Desert, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Counter-Strike 2, Rainbow Six Siege X, and Fortnite all perform similarly on both VRAM configurations. Even more demanding titles like Cities: Skylines II can manage a playable frame rate using the Low preset on the 4GB model.
Despite the lower VRAM capacity, AMD appears to have made a strategic decision to release a budget-friendly GPU with an appealing name and price point, albeit at the cost of reduced performance.
Written by urgent.news from TechSpot's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
