Intel Arc B580 GPUs Ready to Launch with Impressive Features and Custom Designs
Intel is poised to shake up the gaming hardware landscape with the upcoming launch of its Arc B580 “Battlemage” GPUs. Based on the innovative Xe2 graphics architecture, these GPUs are designed to deliver next-generation performance for mainstream gamers, promising to challenge offerings from both AMD and NVIDIA.
The leaked details about the Arc B580 reveal two custom models by ASRock, showcasing the capabilities of Intel’s Battlemage B-series lineup. These cards, named ASRock Intel Arc B580 Steel Legend OC and ASRock Intel Arc B580 Challenger OC, are built to cater to diverse gaming needs and come with factory overclocking for enhanced performance.
Custom Designs Packed with Advanced Features
Both models are fully customized, stepping away from reference designs to provide gamers with superior build quality and performance. Key features include:
- Memory Configuration: 12GB of GDDR6 with a 192-bit bus interface.
- Clock Speed: Factory overclocked to reach up to 2.8 GHz.
- Power Connectors: Steel Legend OC uses dual 8-pin connectors, while Challenger OC opts for a single 8-pin setup.
- Cooling Solutions: Steel Legend OC comes with a triple-fan design and a 2.5-slot shroud, while Challenger OC features a dual-fan setup and a sleeker dual-slot design.
- Advanced Technologies: Support for Intel Xe Super Sampling (XeSS) and Xe Matrix Extensions (XMX) for improved performance in modern gaming workloads.
The ASRock Intel Arc B580 Steel Legend OC is a robust GPU with dimensions of 15.71×8.43×3.82 inches, making it one of the larger cards in its class. It features a unique cut-out backplate that aids in heat dissipation by allowing hot air to exit efficiently. On the other hand, the ASRock Intel Arc B580 Challenger OC takes a more compact approach, measuring 14.17×8.54×2.52 inches, while still providing excellent cooling performance.
Next-Gen Architecture and Performance Boosts
At the heart of these GPUs lies the Battlemage BMG-G21 GPU core, which boasts 20 Xe2 cores. The Xe2 architecture delivers significant improvements over its predecessor, offering higher IPC (instructions per clock) and faster RT (ray tracing) units. With 19Gbps memory speed and 456 GB/s bandwidth, these GPUs are optimized for demanding gaming and graphical workloads.
While the Arc B580 GPUs have slightly lower memory bandwidth compared to the previous Arc A580 model, their architectural enhancements ensure superior overall performance.
Pricing and Market Impact
Currently listed on Amazon, the pricing details for the Arc B580 GPUs remain under wraps. However, Intel’s previous Arc A580 debuted at $179, targeting a highly competitive price point. With improved driver support and lessons learned from the Alchemist series, Intel aims to establish a stronger foothold in the GPU market this time.
If Intel maintains aggressive pricing and provides seamless software compatibility from the start, the Battlemage series could mark a turning point in Intel’s GPU journey. Gamers and hardware enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting updates on these groundbreaking GPUs, expected to launch soon.
By Andrej Kovacevic
Updated on 23rd November 2024