AMD rumored to develop entry-level RDNA 4 RX 9050 with 8GB VRAM
AMD is reportedly developing a new entry-level graphics card, the Radeon RX 9050, based on the RDNA 4 architecture. Despite current memory shortages, the company aims to launch this GPU to compete directly with the upcoming NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050. According to reports from Videocardz, the RX 9050 will utilize the Navi 44 XT die and is expected to debut with 2048 shader cores. The rumored specifications for the RX 9050 reveal a configuration that rivals the mid-range RX 9060 XT rather than the standard RX 9060. The card is projected to feature a game clock of up to 1,920 MHz and a boost clock reaching 2,600 MHz. It will be equipped with 8GB of GDDR6 memory operating at 18 Gbps across a 128-bit memory bus. Connectivity options are expected to include a PCIe 5.0 x16 interface, two DisplayPort 2.1a ports, and a single HDMI 2.1b port. These specifications closely mirror those of the RX 9060 XT 8GB, which also houses 2048 cores and 8GB of memory on a 128-bit bus. However, the RX 9060 XT retains a performance advantage with higher clock speeds, featuring a boost frequency of up to 3.1 GHz and memory running at 20 Gbps. While the target board power for the RX 9050 remains unconfirmed, the RX 9060 XT has a recommended power consumption of 150 Watts, suggesting the RX 9050 will likely be more power-efficient. The naming convention appears unconventional. Typically, an X05 model is positioned below an X60 model. However, the RX 9050's core count and memory configuration exceed those of the vanilla RX 9060. This suggests AMD intends to offer a DIY-friendly SKU that outperforms the standard X60, which is currently exclusive to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Creating a distinct SKU indicates a strategic move to better position the product against the RTX 5050, potentially offering a performance uplift similar to the rumored 20% advantage the RX 9060 holds over its competitor. Pricing details have not been officially released, but industry analysis suggests AMD will aim to match the street price of the RTX 5050, which currently hovers around $289. Any official announcements regarding the RX 9050 are expected to occur during Computex in Taipei. Although AMD will not host its own keynote this year, its AIB partners are expected to showcase reference designs if the hardware is confirmed. Third-party testing will be necessary to validate performance claims and determine real-world value before definitive conclusions can be drawn.
