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MSI Radeon RX 480 Review | 118 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£60
VRAM: 8 GB
Memory bus width: 256 bit
Thermal Design Power (TDP): 150 W

MSI Radeon RX 480 review. Compare 118 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Graphics cards category and whether it is worth buying.

5.4

Good

5.0

Good

9.2

Exceptional

2.9
Gaming
Score components:
45.0%
1.7
Floating-point performance
25.0%
4.9
VRAM
20.0%
1.0
Ray tracing cores / units
10.0%
7.6
PCI Express (PCIe) version
5.4
Video editing
Score components:
35.0%
7.0
AV1 encode
30.0%
4.9
VRAM
20.0%
1.7
Floating-point performance
15.0%
7.6
PCI Express (PCIe) version
3.0
1080p
Score components:
55.0%
1.7
Floating-point performance
25.0%
4.9
VRAM
10.0%
1.0
Ray tracing cores / units
10.0%
7.6
PCI Express (PCIe) version
2.8
1440p
Score components:
50.0%
1.7
Floating-point performance
30.0%
4.9
VRAM
15.0%
1.0
Ray tracing cores / units
5.0%
7.6
PCI Express (PCIe) version
2.9
4K
Score components:
40.0%
1.7
Floating-point performance
35.0%
4.9
VRAM
20.0%
1.0
Ray tracing cores / units
5.0%
7.6
PCI Express (PCIe) version

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Verdict

The MSI Radeon RX 480 is a mid-range graphics card based on the 14nm Polaris architecture, featuring 2,304 stream processors and either 4GB or 8GB of GDDR5 VRAM on a 256-bit memory interface. Premium variants like the Gaming X model offer factory-overclocked boost speeds up to 1,316 MHz and utilise the Twin Frozr VI cooling system with Zero Frozr technology, which keeps fans idle below 60°C for silent operation. Main pros include strong 1080p gaming performance, VR readiness, and customisable RGB lighting. However, notable cons include higher power consumption compared to reference models—often requiring an 8-pin connector—and potential issues with audible coil whine or aggressive fan curves under heavy load.

Technical Specifications of graphics card MSI Radeon RX 480

Overall score

5.4

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the graphics card.

When it matters: When you prefer a graphics card that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Performance

2.6

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3DMark Time Spy benchmark score

What it is: Benchmark result from 3DMark Time Spy, a synthetic DirectX 12 test often used as a quick gaming-performance reference.

When it matters: When you need a fast rough performance sort before digging into game-specific reviews and frame-rate data.

Importance: LOW

3DMark Port Royal score

What it is: Benchmark result from 3DMark Port Royal, a synthetic test focused on ray tracing performance.

When it matters: When ray tracing matters in the games you actually play and you want one quick way to separate stronger and weaker RT cards.

Importance: LOW

PassMark (G3D) result

What it is: Overall GPU performance score in PassMark G3D benchmark

When it matters: When you need one broad score to sort cards into rough performance tiers.

Importance: LOW

PassMark (DirectCompute) result

What it is: PassMark score for DirectCompute performance tests

When it matters: When compute workloads matter alongside gaming performance.

Importance: LOW

Floating-point performance

What it is: Theoretical floating-point compute performance of the GPU.

When it matters: When rendering, AI, or heavy compute work needs strong single-precision throughput.

Importance: LOW

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Memory

4.9

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VRAM

What it is: Total video memory available on the graphics card

When it matters: When you play at high settings, use texture mods, or work with large creative projects.

Importance: HIGH

Memory type

What it is: Type of graphics memory used (GDDR6, HBM2e, etc.)

When it matters: When memory technology is part of the buying decision because it affects bandwidth class, power use, and product positioning.

Importance: LOW

GDDR5

GDDR version

What it is: Generation of GDDR memory used by the graphics card.

When it matters: When you want to separate older memory generations from newer ones before comparing bandwidth, power behavior, and market tier.

Importance: LOW

Memory bus width

What it is: Width of the memory interface bus in bits

When it matters: When you care about steadier performance at higher resolutions, heavier texture settings, or ray-traced workloads that stress memory traffic.

Importance: HIGH

Maximum memory bandwidth

What it is: Maximum data transfer rate between GPU and its memory

When it matters: When 4K gaming, ray tracing, or creator work can choke a slower memory subsystem.

Importance: HIGH

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Platform & Features

7.5

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PCI Express (PCIe) version

What it is: Version of PCI Express interface supported

When it matters: When you are pairing the card with an older motherboard and want to avoid leaving bandwidth or future compatibility on the table.

Importance: LOW

PCIe lanes

What it is: Number of PCI Express lanes used for communication

When it matters: When limited lane width could bottleneck the card in some systems.

Importance: LOW

DirectX version

What it is: Highest supported DirectX API version

When it matters: When you play newer Windows games that depend on the latest graphics features.

Importance: LOW

Vulkan version

What it is: Highest supported Vulkan API version

When it matters: When modern games, emulators, or creative apps lean on Vulkan support.

Importance: LOW

OpenGL version

What it is: Highest supported OpenGL API version

When it matters: When older games or pro apps still depend on OpenGL compatibility.

Importance: LOW

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Connectivity & Media

7.6

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Max displays supported

What it is: Total number of external displays supported simultaneously

When it matters: When you run a multi-monitor desk for sim racing, trading, or editing.

Importance: LOW

Max digital resolution

What it is: Maximum supported digital display resolution

When it matters: When you plan to drive 4K or 8K panels at their native resolution.

Importance: LOW

DisplayPort outputs

What it is: Number of DisplayPort video outputs

When it matters: When your setup needs several high-refresh monitors without adapters.

Importance: LOW

DisplayPort version

What it is: Version of DisplayPort standard supported

When it matters: When your monitor setup depends on newer DisplayPort features for higher refresh rates, higher resolution, or better cable flexibility.

Importance: LOW

DisplayPort link rates

What it is: Supported data link rates for DisplayPort connections

When it matters: When you are pushing high resolution and refresh rate over DisplayPort.

Importance: LOW

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Power & Cooling

8.8

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Thermal Design Power (TDP)

What it is: Typical power consumption under full load (TDP)

When it matters: When you need a realistic idea of power draw before choosing a PSU or case.

Importance: MEDIUM

Power consumption while under peak load

What it is: Peak power draw of the graphics card under maximum load.

When it matters: When transient-heavy gaming loads could stress your power supply.

Importance: LOW

Recommended PSU wattage

What it is: Recommended wattage of the system power supply

When it matters: When you are checking whether your current power supply is enough.

Importance: LOW

Board power limit

What it is: Maximum configurable power limit for the GPU board

When it matters: When you care about how far the card can be pushed through tuning or factory power settings.

Importance: LOW

PCIe power spec

What it is: PCIe power delivery specification followed

When it matters: When you are checking whether the slot and external cables match the card's intended power-delivery standard.

Importance: LOW

150 W

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Design

9.6

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Size

What it is: Physical size of the GPU card

When it matters: When you need the card to fit a compact case without blocking nearby hardware.

Importance: LOW

240 x 95 x 35 mm

Length

What it is: Physical length of the GPU card

When it matters: When front radiators or drive cages leave only limited GPU clearance.

Importance: LOW

Height

What it is: Physical height of the GPU card

When it matters: When side panels, brackets, or tight case layouts reduce vertical clearance.

Importance: LOW

Slot width

What it is: Number of PCIe slots occupied by the card

When it matters: When you need room for another PCIe card or better airflow under the GPU.

Importance: LOW

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the graphics card

When it matters: When sag, bracket support, or shipping stress matters in your build.

Importance: LOW

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MSI Radeon RX 480 vs the average graphics card

Why is MSI Radeon RX 480 better than the average graphics card?

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23.1% lower PSU requirement
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (500 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.
What it is: Recommended wattage of the system power supply
When it matters: When you are checking whether your current power supply is enough.
Importance: LOW
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (500 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.500 W vs 650 W
30.2% lower TDP
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (150 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
What it is: Typical power consumption under full load (TDP)
When it matters: When you need a realistic idea of power draw before choosing a PSU or case.
Importance: MEDIUM
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (150 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.150 W vs 215 W
0.5 slot/s slimmer design
MSI Radeon RX 480 occupies fewer slots than the average graphics card (2 slot/s vs 2.5 slot/s). The average graphics card occupies 2.5 slot/s.
What it is: Number of PCIe slots occupied by the card
When it matters: When you need room for another PCIe card or better airflow under the GPU.
Importance: LOW
MSI Radeon RX 480 occupies fewer slots than the average graphics card (2 slot/s vs 2.5 slot/s). The average graphics card occupies 2.5 slot/s.2 slot/s vs 2.5 slot/s
14.3% faster VRAM clock
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (2000 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
What it is: Speed at which the GPU memory operates
When it matters: When you want more context on how quickly the card's VRAM can move data.
Importance: LOW
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (2000 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.2000 MHz vs 1750 MHz
13 mm lower card height
MSI Radeon RX 480 is shorter than the average graphics card (112 mm vs 125 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 125 mm.
What it is: Physical height of the GPU card
When it matters: When side panels, brackets, or tight case layouts reduce vertical clearance.
Importance: LOW
MSI Radeon RX 480 is shorter than the average graphics card (112 mm vs 125 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 125 mm.112 mm vs 125 mm
43 mm shorter card length
MSI Radeon RX 480 is shorter than the average graphics card (242 mm vs 285 mm). The average graphics card has a length of 285 mm.
What it is: Physical length of the GPU card
When it matters: When front radiators or drive cages leave only limited GPU clearance.
Importance: LOW
MSI Radeon RX 480 is shorter than the average graphics card (242 mm vs 285 mm). The average graphics card has a length of 285 mm.242 mm vs 285 mm
2 more GPUs supported
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports more GPUs in multi-GPU mode than the average graphics card (2 vs 0). The average graphics card supports 0 GPUs in multi-GPU mode.
What it is: Maximum number of GPUs supported in a multi-GPU setup
When it matters: When you are planning a rendering or compute setup with more than one card.
Importance: LOW
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports more GPUs in multi-GPU mode than the average graphics card (2 vs 0). The average graphics card supports 0 GPUs in multi-GPU mode.2 vs 0
15.4% higher user score
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a higher user score than the average graphics card (9.23 vs 8.000).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the graphics card.
When it matters: When you want to understand how a graphics card performs in real use and how reliable it is in terms of performance, temperatures, noise, stability, and long-term ownership.
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a higher user score than the average graphics card (9.23 vs 8.000).9.23 vs 8
Better FP64 ratio
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a better FP64 ratio than the average graphics card (1:16 vs 1:64).
14.3% faster VRAM clock
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (2000 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
2 more GPUs supported
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports more GPUs in multi-GPU mode than the average graphics card (2 vs 0). The average graphics card supports 0 GPUs in multi-GPU mode.
Supports multi-GPU linking
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
1 more DVI outputs
MSI Radeon RX 480 has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
23.1% lower PSU requirement
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (500 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.
30.2% lower TDP
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (150 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
0.5 slot/s slimmer design
MSI Radeon RX 480 occupies fewer slots than the average graphics card (2 slot/s vs 2.5 slot/s). The average graphics card occupies 2.5 slot/s.
13 mm lower card height
MSI Radeon RX 480 is shorter than the average graphics card (112 mm vs 125 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 125 mm.
43 mm shorter card length
MSI Radeon RX 480 is shorter than the average graphics card (242 mm vs 285 mm). The average graphics card has a length of 285 mm.

Platform & Features

Connectivity & Media

Power & Cooling

Why is MSI Radeon RX 480 worse than the average graphics card?

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49.5% lower boost clock speed
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,266 MHz vs 2,505 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,505 MHz.
40 fewer ray tracing cores
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer ray tracing cores than the average graphics card (0 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 ray tracing cores.
No CUDA support
MSI Radeon RX 480 does not support CUDA, the average graphics card does.
41.7% lower base clock speed
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,120 MHz vs 1920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1920 MHz.
75.2% lower pixel rate
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (40.5 GPixel/s vs 163.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 163.2 GPixel/s.
52.2% lower texture rate
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (182.3 GTexel/s vs 381.2 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 381.2 GTexel/s.
144 fewer AI cores
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer AI cores than the average graphics card (0 vs 144). The average graphics card has 144 AI cores.
32 fewer ROPs
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer ROPs than the average graphics card (32 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.
74.3% lower FP32 performance
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower FP32 performance than the average graphics card (5.8 TFLOPS vs 22.57 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP32 performance of 22.57 TFLOPS.
61.6% lower PassMark score
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower PassMark score than the average graphics card (8,700 points vs 22,653 points). The average graphics card has a PassMark score of 22,653 points.
40 fewer TMUs
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (144 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
67.3% lower gaming score
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower gaming score than the average graphics card (4,796 points vs 14,678.5 points). The average graphics card has a gaming score of 14,678.5 points.
4 fewer compute units
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (36 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
71.7% lower compute score
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower compute score than the average graphics card (3,414 points vs 12,074 points). The average graphics card has a compute score of 12,074 points.
79.6% lower FP16 performance
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower FP16 performance than the average graphics card (6.1 TFLOPS vs 29.725 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP16 performance of 29.725 TFLOPS.
74.6% lower compute throughput
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower compute throughput than the average graphics card (5.8 TFLOPS vs 22.98 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has compute throughput of 22.98 TFLOPS.
4 GB less VRAM
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (8 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
57.9% slower memory speed
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (8,000 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.
42.9% lower memory bandwidth
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (256 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.
91.7% smaller L2 cache
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer L2 cache than the average graphics card (2 MB vs 24 MB). The average graphics card has 24 MB L2 cache.
87.5% smaller L1 cache
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer L1 cache than the average graphics card (16 vs 128). The average graphics card has 128 L1 cache.
2.8x larger process node
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a higher process node than the average graphics card (14 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.
No DLSS support
MSI Radeon RX 480 does not support DLSS, the average graphics card does.
No ray tracing
MSI Radeon RX 480 does not support ray tracing, the average graphics card does.
Older PCIe version
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).
7 older
MSI Radeon RX 480 was released earlier than the average graphics card (2016 vs 2023).
June 2016
No mesh shaders
MSI Radeon RX 480 does not support mesh shaders, the average graphics card does.
No XeSS support
MSI Radeon RX 480 does not support XeSS, the average graphics card does.
Worse SAM support
MSI Radeon RX 480 offers worse SAM support than the average graphics card (no vs yes).
Older encoder generation
MSI Radeon RX 480 uses an older encoder generation than the average graphics card (4 vs 8). The average graphics card uses encoder generation 8.
Older Vulkan version
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports an older Vulkan version than the average graphics card (1.3 vs 1.4).
Older DirectX version
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports an older DirectX version than the average graphics card (12 vs 12 Ultimate).
Older shader model
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports an older shader model than the average graphics card (6 vs 6.8).
Older OpenCL version
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports an older OpenCL version than the average graphics card (2.1 vs 3.0).
No sampler feedback
MSI Radeon RX 480 does not support sampler feedback, the average graphics card does.
75.1% fewer transistors
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer transistors than the average graphics card (5,700 million vs 22,900 million). The average graphics card has 22,900 million transistors.
Older FSR version
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports an older FSR version than the average graphics card (2 vs 3.1).
No AV1 encoding
MSI Radeon RX 480 does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.
No AV1 decoding
MSI Radeon RX 480 does not support AV1 decoding, the average graphics card does.
1 fewer DisplayPort outputs
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average graphics card (2 vs 3). The average graphics card has 3 DisplayPort outputs.
No DSC support
MSI Radeon RX 480 does not support DSC, the average graphics card does.
Narrower encode codec support
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports narrower hardware encode codec support than the average graphics card (H.264/H.265 vs H.264/H.265/AV1/VP9).
Older DisplayPort version
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports an older DisplayPort version than the average graphics card (1.4 vs 1.4a).
Narrower decode codec support
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports narrower hardware decode codec support than the average graphics card (H.264/H.265/VP9/MPEG-2/VC-1 vs H.264/H.265/AV1/VP9/MPEG-2/VC-1).
Older HDMI version
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports an older HDMI version than the average graphics card (2.0b vs 2.1).
Older HDCP version
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports an older HDCP version than the average graphics card (2.2 vs 2.3).
Lower display resolution
MSI Radeon RX 480 supports a lower maximum digital resolution than the average graphics card (4096x2160 vs 7680x4320). The average graphics card supports a maximum digital resolution of 7680x4320.
73% lower DisplayPort bandwidth
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower DisplayPort bandwidth than the average graphics card (5.4 Gbps vs 20 Gbps). The average graphics card has DisplayPort bandwidth of 20 Gbps.
1 fewer fans
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).
13 °C higher idle temperature
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a higher idle temperature than the average graphics card (50 °C vs 37 °C). The average graphics card has an idle temperature of 37 °C.
6 °C higher load temperature
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a higher load temperature than the average graphics card (73 °C vs 67 °C). The average graphics card has a load temperature of 67 °C.
3.6 dB noisier under load
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a higher load noise level than the average graphics card (39 dB vs 35.4 dB). The average graphics card has a load noise level of 35.4 dB.
49.5% lower boost clock speed
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,266 MHz vs 2,505 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,505 MHz.
What it is: Maximum boost frequency the GPU can reach under load
When it matters: When you want a rough idea of peak advertised frequency, while knowing real sustained clocks still depend on cooling and power limits.
Importance: HIGH
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,266 MHz vs 2,505 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,505 MHz.1266 MHz vs 2505 MHz
40 fewer ray tracing cores
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer ray tracing cores than the average graphics card (0 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 ray tracing cores.
What it is: Number of dedicated ray tracing processing cores or units
When it matters: When you care about ray-traced lighting, reflections, and shadows in newer games.
Importance: HIGH
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer ray tracing cores than the average graphics card (0 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 ray tracing cores.0 vs 40
2.8x larger process node
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a higher process node than the average graphics card (14 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.
What it is: Size of the manufacturing process in nanometers
When it matters: When process node differences may affect power, heat, and overall efficiency.
Importance: MEDIUM
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a higher process node than the average graphics card (14 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.14 nm vs 5 nm
No CUDA support
MSI Radeon RX 480 does not support CUDA, the average graphics card does.
What it is: Supports CUDA parallel computing platform
When it matters: When your apps or AI tools specifically depend on the CUDA software stack.
Importance: MEDIUM
MSI Radeon RX 480 does not support CUDA, the average graphics card does.
41.7% lower base clock speed
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,120 MHz vs 1920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1920 MHz.
What it is: Base operating frequency of the GPU core under standard conditions
When it matters: When you want to understand the card's guaranteed starting frequency instead of looking only at optimistic boost figures.
Importance: HIGH
MSI Radeon RX 480 has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,120 MHz vs 1920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1920 MHz.1120 MHz vs 1920 MHz
4 GB less VRAM
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (8 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
What it is: Total video memory available on the graphics card
When it matters: When you play at high settings, use texture mods, or work with large creative projects.
Importance: HIGH
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (8 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.8 GB vs 12 GB
1 fewer fans
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).
What it is: Total number of cooling fans
When it matters: When you compare cooler designs and want one more clue about thermal potential.
Importance: MEDIUM
MSI Radeon RX 480 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).2 vs 3
No DLSS support
MSI Radeon RX 480 does not support DLSS, the average graphics card does.
What it is: Supports NVIDIA DLSS upscaling technology
When it matters: When you play NVIDIA-supported games and want better frame rates at higher settings.
Importance: LOW
MSI Radeon RX 480 does not support DLSS, the average graphics card does.

Platform & Features

Connectivity & Media

Power & Cooling

Graphic comparison of MSI Radeon RX 480 and other products in the Graphics cards category

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about MSI Radeon RX 480?

Excellent cooling performance with the Twin Frozr VI cooler, running significantly cooler than reference models
Near-silent operation; fans remain idle under low loads (Zero Frozr technology)
Strong 1080p gaming performance and capable 1440p performance with adjusted settings
Premium build quality including a sturdy metal backplate and customizable RGB lighting
Improved power delivery via an 8-pin connector compared to the 6-pin reference design
Excellent current second-hand value for budget builds

What customers dislike about MSI Radeon RX 480?

High power consumption under load, often exceeding the 150W TDP advertised for the chip
Limited overclocking headroom as the card comes factory-tweaked near its limits
Dated architecture that struggles with modern AAA titles and lacks ray-tracing support
Large physical footprint (custom PCB) may not fit in compact or small-form-factor cases
Audible coil whine reported by some users under specific heavy workloads
Fan curve may require manual tuning in some closed-case environments to prevent higher temps

Expert reviews

overclockersclub.com

07/12/2016

Summary of the review

MSI RX 480 Gaming X 8G Review - Overclockers Club

The Overclockers Club review of the MSI RX 480 Gaming X 8G highlights a well-engineered aftermarket card featuring a custom PCB with Military Class IV components and a highly effective Twin Frozr VI cooling system. Key strengths include a silent 0-RPM fan mode (ZeroFrozr), effective RGB lighting, and solid overclocking headroom, with testers achieving a stable 1410MHz core clock. On the downside, the cooler's bulky, wide design may pose fitment issues in smaller cases, and the out-of-the-box fan profile favors silence over lower temperatures. While delivering robust performance, the card's higher power draw results in reduced energy efficiency compared to competitors, though it remains a top choice for 1080p and 1440p gaming. YouTube

overclockers.com

04/08/2016

Summary of the review

MSI RX 480 GAMING X 8G Video Card Review - Overclockers

The MSI RX 480 Gaming X 8G is a non-reference card utilizing AMD’s 14nm Polaris 10 architecture and the custom Twin Frozr VI cooler, which provides silent, 0dB operation under 60°C and superior thermal performance. Factory-overclocked with robust power components, it delivers strong 1080p and entry-level 1440p performance, making it a capable, cool-running mainstream option. Drawbacks identified in the review include higher power consumption (200-225W) due to the 8-pin connector, and a bulky, wider PCB that may restrict installation in smaller chassis. Additionally, the RGB customization is limited, with only the logo being fully adjustable while other accents remain locked in red.

tomshardware.com

04/04/2017

Summary of the review

MSI RX 480 Gaming X 8G Review - Tom's Hardware TechPowerUp

The MSI RX 480 Gaming X 8G is a physically large and beefy graphics card weighing 974 grams, measuring 27.5 cm in length, and featuring a dual-slot form factor with a 1303 MHz Gaming Mode clock rate. It is built around a non-reference PCB layout that positions a six-phase GPU voltage regulation circuit controlled by an IR3567B chip on the right, alongside 8GB of Samsung GDDR5 memory rated up to 2000 MHz. Power metrics show that the card draws 18W at idle, 191W during gaming, and hits up to 224W under a stress test due to a loose factory power limit. The layout utilizes an 8-pin power connector that safely draws 3.9A from the PCIe slot—well under the PCI-SIG spec limit—but exceeds the 150W auxiliary connector specification by up to 22W, requiring native 18-gauge wiring instead of adapters. Thermal and acoustic testing reveals a highly aggressive fan curve that keeps the GPU stabilized at its 1303 MHz clock rate but sacrifices acoustics. Key pros of the card include a balanced overall design, excellent gaming performance, and a robust physical cooling...

gamersnexus.net

02/08/2016

Summary of the review

MSI RX 480 Gaming X Review & Benchmark | GamersNexus

Summary The MSI RX 480 Gaming X is a highly capable custom variant of AMD's Polaris 10 architecture that fixes the major shortcomings of the reference model for a modest $15 price premium. Equipped with the Twin Frozr VI cooling solution, the card runs roughly 10°C cooler under load (~46.16°C vs ~56°C delta over ambient) and maintains completely silent 0RPM fan operation when temperatures drop below 60°C. This massive thermal upgrade pays dividends in performance; whereas the reference design suffers from fluctuating clock rates to control heat, the MSI shroud completely flattens out the core frequency, allowing it to sustain its 1303MHz pre-overclocked boost speed with minimal dipping. Performance scales exceptionally well in clock-sensitive titles, elevating Black Ops III framerates from 132.3 FPS on the reference design to 144 FPS, effectively pushing the card into a higher tier of 144Hz high-refresh-rate gaming. Pros and Cons While the card represents a massive step up from stock models, its ultimate value depends heavily on your specific gaming catalog due to stiff competition from Nvidia's GTX 1060. Pros: Excellent thermal headroom, rock-solid clock...

guru3d.com

01/08/2016

Summary of the review

MSI Radeon RX 480 GAMING X review - www.guru3d.com

The MSI Radeon RX 480 GAMING X 8GB review by Guru3D evaluates a highly potent, custom-cooled graphics card targeting mainstream gamers playing at Full HD (1080p) and WQHD (1440p) resolutions. Built on AMD’s 14nm Polaris 10 architecture, the card features 2,304 shader processors, a 256-bit memory bus, and an upgraded 8-pin power connector coupled with a 6 phase VRM design for enhanced stability. MSI factory-tweaks this "X" variant to run its boost clock at just over 1300 MHz out of the box while utilizing an effective 8000 MHz memory speed. The review highly praises the physical build quality, noting that the inclusion of a solid backplate and the signature TwinFrozr VI dual-fan cooler gives this mid-range card a distinctly high-end aesthetic. The primary pros highlighted in the review focus on the card's exceptional thermal efficiency and acoustic profile, as the TwinFrozr VI cooler keeps the GPU at a stable 73°C under heavy stress while operating at a nearly silent 38 dBA with no noticeable coil whine. Performance-wise, it serves as a strong price-to-performance option at roughly $269, delivering smooth gameplay...

techpowerup.com

01/08/2016

Summary of the review

MSI RX 480 Gaming X 8 GBGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. Review

The TechPowerUp review of the MSI RX 480 Gaming X 8 GB highlights a custom card featuring superior thermal and acoustic performance via the Twin Frozr VI cooler, operating quietly at 31 dBA and significantly cooler than the reference design. Pros include a 0 RPM idle mode, a premium backplate, a DVI port, and a robust 8-pin power delivery system for improved overclocking potential. Conversely, the review notes high power consumption, with the card drawing close to 200W during gaming, negatively impacting performance-per-watt efficiency. Although efficient in cooling, the card's power draw can approach 225W under stress tests, and its acoustic performance, while good, falls short of the quietest competing custom GTX 1060 models.

igorslab.de

03/04/2017

Summary of the review

Das große Radeon RX480 Test-Roundup (MSI Gaming X 8G) | igor´sLAB

This comprehensive roundup evaluates several custom AMD Radeon RX 480 graphics cards (including models from Asus, MSI, Powercolor, Sapphire, XFX, and HIS) alongside the original reference card to analyze how individual board partner designs interpret the Polaris 10 architecture. Tested under realistic conditions inside both open test benches and closed PC cases, the review bypasses direct comparisons with Nvidia competitors to focus on how each manufacturer manages the GPU's power limit, voltage supply, and cooling systems. A major highlight of the review is its rigorous, professional-grade testing methodology, which uses advanced digital oscilloscopes for high-precision power consumption tracking, contact-free infrared thermography, and a dedicated low-reflection acoustic chamber to map specific frequency spectrums and noise levels. Pros & Cons Pros: Tailored Partner Designs: Custom manufacturer variations allow buyers to choose models optimized for their specific needs, balancing factory overclocks against power efficiency. Long-Term Performance Value: The architecture ages exceptionally well over time compared to older Nvidia equivalents, benefiting greatly from ongoing AMD driver maturation and optimization. Realistic Testing: Provides practical benchmarks by testing cards inside closed systems to account for thermal...

comptoir-hardware.com

26/08/2016

Summary of the review

Test • Crossfire de RX 480 vs GTX 1070Go to product viewer dialog for this item.

The review evaluates whether two custom ASUS Strix AMD Radeon RX 480 graphics cards running in a CrossFire dual-GPU configuration can outperform a single factory-overclocked MSI GeForce GTX 1070 Gaming X. Published during the launch cycle of AMD’s Polaris 10 and Nvidia's Pascal architectures, the test aims to see if the higher total cost of two mainstream AMD cards provides a superior 3D gaming experience over a single high-end Nvidia card. The testing protocol examines performance scaling across standard resolutions, specifically targeting 1080p and 1440p settings, while factoring in potential bottlenecks like platform architecture and system RAM configurations. On the positive side, the custom ASUS Strix RX 480 cards feature enhanced cooling and power delivery over the flawed reference design, allowing the Polaris architecture to finally deliver comfortable, high-framerate gameplay. When games scale perfectly with multi-GPU profiles, the combined raw compute of the dual RX 480 setup pushes performance into premium territory. However, the cons of this configuration are notable: the combined price of two custom RX 480s exceeds the cost of a single GTX 1070, making it financially inefficient....

ginjfo.com

10/12/2020

Summary of the review

La Radeon RX 480 8 Go a-t-elle encore son mot à dire avec les jeux d’aujourd’hui ?

The GinjFo review finds the AMD Radeon RX 480 8GB still viable for budget-conscious, light gaming, largely due to its 8GB VRAM buffer that manages modern, memory-heavy titles. Synthetic tests confirm it performs roughly 7.7% to 10.4% faster than the R9 290, maintaining a competitive, albeit dated, position against older hardware. However, the card’s outdated architecture poses significant cons, as it is heavily outclassed by modern, mid-range alternatives like the Nvidia RTX 3060 Ti, which delivers over double the performance in benchmarks. Furthermore, it often trails its primary historical competitor, the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 6GB, in real-world gaming, struggling to achieve high settings in contemporary AAA titles.

techpulse.be

29/06/2016

Summary of the review

Review AMD Radeon RX 480Go to product viewer dialogue for this item.: Beste grafische kaart voor de massa

The AMD Radeon RX 480 is a highly cost-effective, VR-ready graphics card that delivers mid-range performance comparable to Nvidia's GTX 970 at a significantly lower launch price of €260. Built on the 14-nanometer Polaris 10 architecture, the card features 2,304 stream processors, a boost clock of 1266 MHz, and 8GB of standard GDDR5 memory. Performance benchmarks reveal that the RX 480 excels in DirectX 12 games, such as Ashes of the Singularity and Hitman, where it consistently outperforms the GTX 970. However, in older DirectX 11 environments and lower resolutions, Nvidia maintains a slight optimization advantage, causing the RX 480 to trail marginally in titles like Battlefield 4. The graphics card stands out for several distinct advantages but carries a few noticeable flaws. On the positive side, its primary pros include exceptional performance-per-euro value, a highly compact form factor suitable for small desktop setups, a low power consumption rate that requires only a single 6-pin power connector, and full hardware readiness for virtual reality systems like the Oculus Rift. It also introduces the intuitive "Wattman" software for flexible performance and...

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