MSI Gaming Radeon RX 7600 Mech 2X
Overclocked model for improved performance offering
Small size able to fit in most cases and avoids any sag
Old vs new, we see how AMDs own GPUs fare against each other
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Targeting the HD 1080p market and comparing the old vs new we see how the RX 7600 vs 6650 XT compare. It is still the primary resolution and is popular among FPS and fast-paced games, or just for the more budget-orientated gamers.
The AMD Radeon RX 6650 XT came out in May 2022, as a small update to the current RX 6600 XT. And a year later, the successor came in the form of the RX 7600 launch in May in 2024. This comes as part of the new generation of architecture and range of graphics cards.
Overclocked model for improved performance offering
Small size able to fit in most cases and avoids any sag
Great build quality
More expensive option
From the same company, we get an easier comparison between the RX 7600 vs 6650 XT GPUs. With a generation apart, we do get a good look at what they have behind them and how they improve on previous.
Since they are a generation apart, you can expect some generational improvements to what is on offer. Firstly, the RX 6650 XT features the Navi 23 KXT GPU variant from the RDNA 2 range. Made with TSMCs 7nm process with 11.06 billion transistors on the 237mm² die size. Whilst the RX 7600 has the Navi 33 XL is the RDNA 3 generation with TSMCs 6nm process. It has a 204mm² die size with 13.3 billion transistors.
RX 7600 | RX 6650 XT | |
---|---|---|
GPU | Navi 33 XL | Navi 23 KXT |
GPU process | TSMC 6nm | TSMC 7nm |
Shaders | 2,048 | 2,048 |
Base clock | 1,720MHz | 2,055MHz |
Boost clock | 2,655MHz, 2,250MHz game | 2,635MHz, 2,410MHz game |
Memory | 8GB GDDR6 | 8GB GDDR6 |
Memory clock/bandwidth | 18Gbps / 288GB/s | 17.5Gbps / 280GB/s |
Memory bus | 128-bit | 128-bit |
TBP | 165W | 180W |
With the specs listed, you can compare the differences between the two options. And we outline the differences between them and what those mean for it.
GPU cores, found within your GPU processor, specialize in various tasks due to different cluster configurations. For example, stream processors manage shaders and graphics, while ray accelerators (or RT cores) enhance ray tracing performance. These elements are organized into what we refer to as compute units.
AMD’s RX 7600 hasn’t exactly changed over what the RX 6650 XT had to offer. Both of them utilize 2,048 stream processors and the same 32 CUs. But the new option has the benefit of generational improvement and efficiency, so is likely to improve with just that.
Various aspects need to be assessed when considering video memory (VRAM) due to its significant impact on a graphics card’s performance, especially at high resolutions. VRAM operates as a cache buffer for larger pixel counts, necessitating ample bandwidth for processing.
Both cards have 8 GB GDDR6, and where the 50 XT improves over its own predecessor with an increase in the clock speed, the 7600 does so to this card. And so with the same bus, the memory bandwidth is just 8GB/s faster with the 0.5 Gbps higher clock. So you can kind of expect the same performance in the solution benchmarks. They also both utilize 32MB of AMDs infinity cache for support.
Clock speed, often referred to as frequency, is the operating speed at which these cores function. This speed plays a vital role in processing graphics and instructions which ultimately result in the final display on the screen. The two GPU models under consideration have somewhat comparable specifications.
Although the 7600 has a lower base clock, it doesn’t significantly affect performance, but rather its efficiency. The boost clock, on the other hand, is relatively the same and doesn’t substantially differentiate the two. Moreover, the potential to overclock these options exists, which could result in higher frames per second (FPS) than the AMD reference card as custom cards themselves may offer.
The Typical Board Power (TBP), previously known as Thermal Design Power (TDP), signifies the expected power usage of a GPU. With the RX 7600 vs 6650 XT, the new generation does benefit from efficiency. With a 15W lower rating for a similar spec. As such will run cheaper and cooler, although the power supply requirement isn’t going to vary significantly.
When comparing the launch price or MSRP, we see a significant difference. As the 60 series card launched at a time of shortage and when everything was expensive it is much higher. And the RX 7600 is $130 cheaper than it. With an even lowered price of $269 (was 299 right until launch) compared to the $399. So for similar specs, it seems like the easier choice. But you can find the 6650 XT cheaper now, either Amazon or Newegg has it under $300.
Comparing the two in TechSpots review, we can see the benchmarks and performance between the two. And you get a slight bit of better performance from the new card. It’s only 3FPS on average between 1080p and 1440p but it is a tier down and at a better price for the hardware. It does achieve an average 88FPS, 62, and 33 FPS across 1080p, 1440p, and 4k.
With the price point of the RX 7600 at a much better point for the hardware, it is the better choice than the RX 6650 XT. Although that one can be found for a similar choice anyway these days, they both offer great 1080p performance or a minimal 1440p option so it is a good option for low end gaming.
A big boost in clock rate boost
Rather long card for the low TBP so might be inconvenient
Best out of the box performance
Quality design
Subtle RGB color customization
More expensive option