Leaked RDNA 5 specs hint at AMD’s next low-end GPU overhaul

Details about two low-cost Radeon RDNA 5 discrete graphics cards have surfaced, indicating a significant shift in AMD's approach. Unlike previous graphics processors that utilized GDDR (Graphics DDR) memory technologies, these GPUs will adopt LPDDR (Low-Power DDR) memory. The reason? Lower costs and the ability to support greater memory capacities on narrower memory bus sizes.

The drawback of LPDDR memory types is that they generally provide less raw bandwidth compared to the most recent GDDR memory technologies. However, AMD seems to have adjusted the bandwidth needs of its RDNA 5 graphics architecture. These GPUs are said to incorporate a sizable L2 cache and may utilize this cache in tandem with AMD’s Infinity Cache technology. These innovations diminish the necessity for memory bandwidth from GPU memory, making the adoption of LPDDR memory technologies feasible.

According to the latest leak from Moore’s Law is Dead, AMD is developing two RDNA 5 discrete GPUs powered by LPDDR. The first one is named “Alpha Triton 4” (AT4), which allegedly comes with 24 RDNA 5 Compute Units (CUs), includes 10MB of L2 cache, and operates on a 128-bit LPDDR5X memory controller. This GPU could potentially support either 12GB or even 24GB of memory.

On the higher end, the rumored “Alpha Triton 3” chip features 48 RDNA 5 Compute Units (CUs), has 20MB of L2 cache, and boasts a substantial 384-bit LPDDR6 memory controller. With this memory setup, this chip can reportedly accommodate up to 512GB of memory. Nonetheless, it is more probable that it will have between 16-32GB of memory.

With these graphics cards, AMD aims to revolutionize the entry-level GPU segment. The Alpha Triton 4 is classified as a low-end graphics chip, and its significant VRAM capacity should enable it to perform well with contemporary games. Its performance metrics also indicate that it will be affordably priced, appealing to budget-conscious PC gamers.

AMD is expected to release higher-end RDNA 5 graphics cards featuring GDDR6 or GDDR7 memory. These GPUs will focus on the upper tiers of the GPU market, where enhanced memory capacity is crucial.

While the anticipation surrounding AMD’s forthcoming RDNA 5 GPUs is palpable, you don’t have to wait to achieve top-tier gaming experiences. The Radeon RX 9070 XT, which operates on RDNA 4 architecture and includes 16GB of VRAM, already offers outstanding performance, stunning visuals, and efficient power consumption for today's most demanding games. As always, for the latest news on hardware launches and industry developments, be sure to follow our dedicated hardware coverage.