XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy Review | 118 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£260
  • VRAM: 8 GB
  • Memory bus width: 256 bit
  • Thermal Design Power (TDP): 225 W

XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy review. Compare 118 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among graphics cards and if it is worth buying.

5.2

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the graphics card's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best graphics cards on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.8

Technical Score

10.0%

9.0

User score

Good
4.8

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the graphics card's technical performance, covering key areas such as gaming and rendering performance, ray tracing, memory configuration, power efficiency, cooling, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare graphics cards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

44.0%

3.3

Performance

24.0%

4.3

Memory

12.0%

8.1

Power & Cooling

11.0%

6.6

Platform & Features

5.0%

6.6

Design

4.0%

7.9

Connectivity & Media

Poor
9.0

User score

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.

Score components:

70.0%

8.5

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.1
(1836)
amazon
4.3
(873)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
(1859)
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(904)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

Exceptional
  • 3.9
    Gaming

    Score components:

    45.0%

    1.8

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    2.8

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 4.8
    Video editing

    Score components:

    35.0%

    7.0

    AV1 encode

    30.0%

    2.8

    VRAM

    20.0%

    1.8

    Floating-point performance

    15.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 3.3
    1080p

    Score components:

    55.0%

    1.8

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    2.8

    VRAM

    10.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 3.3
    1440p

    Score components:

    50.0%

    1.8

    Floating-point performance

    30.0%

    2.8

    VRAM

    15.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 3.7
    4K

    Score components:

    40.0%

    1.8

    Floating-point performance

    35.0%

    2.8

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

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Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy is a mid-range graphics card based on the 12nm Polaris 30 architecture, featuring 2,304 stream processors and a factory-overclocked boost clock of 1580 MHz. It is equipped with 8GB of GDDR5 memory on a 256-bit bus, delivering 256 GB/s bandwidth, and utilizes a bulky 2.5-slot cooling system with dual 100mm fans and a solid aluminum backplate. Main pros include its exceptional 1080p and capable 1440p gaming performance, outperforming the GTX 1060, along with a dual BIOS switch that offers a choice between high-performance and silent cooling modes. However, the card is notably power-hungry with a 225W TDP requiring both 8-pin and 6-pin connectors, can run quite hot under full load, and its large physical footprint may not fit into smaller PC cases.

Technical Specifications of XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the graphics card's technical performance, covering key areas such as gaming and rendering performance, ray tracing, memory configuration, power efficiency, cooling, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare graphics cards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

44.0%

3.3

Performance

24.0%

4.3

Memory

12.0%

8.1

Power & Cooling

11.0%

6.6

Platform & Features

5.0%

6.6

Design

4.0%

7.9

Connectivity & Media

4.8
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a technical score of 4.81 points, which is lower than that of 79.9% of products in this category.
User score

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.

Score components:

70.0%

8.5

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.1
(1836)
amazon
4.3
(873)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
(1859)
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(904)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

9.0
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a user score of 8.97 points, which is higher than that of 77.3% of products in this category.
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.
10
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 77.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the graphics card's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a graphics card that offers a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.2

Overall score

40.0%

9.2

Price

6.4
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.4 points, which is lower than 67% of products in this category.
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

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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

N/A
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

7.28 TFLOPS
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy delivers 7.28 TFLOPS floating-point performance, which is lower than that of 82.4% of graphics cards.
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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

8 GB
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has 8 GB of VRAM, which is less than 57.6% of graphics cards and equal to 25.1% of graphics cards.
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

GDDR5
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy uses GDDR5 memory, which is older than on 85% of graphics cards and equal to 13.2% of graphics cards.
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

256 bit
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy uses a 256 bit memory bus, which is wider than that of 49.5% of graphics cards and equal to that of 36.1% of graphics cards.
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

256 GB/s
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy reaches 256 GB/s memory bandwidth, which is lower than that of 80.5% of graphics cards and equal to that of 2.7% of graphics cards.
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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

3.0
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports PCIe 3.0, which is older than on 77.6% of graphics cards and equal to 20.3% of graphics cards.
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

x16
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy uses x16 PCIe lanes, which is more than 31.5% of graphics cards and equal to 68.6% of graphics cards.
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

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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

1.3
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports Vulkan 1.3, which is older than on 73.5% of graphics cards and equal to 22.5% of graphics cards.
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

4.6
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports OpenGL 4.6, which is more advanced than on 4.8% of graphics cards and equal to 95.2% of graphics cards.
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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

6
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports up to 6 displays, which is more than 98.8% of graphics cards and equal to 1.2% of graphics cards.
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

4096x2160
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports a maximum digital resolution of 4096x2160, which is lower than that of 56.4% of graphics cards and equal to that of 2.4% of graphics cards.
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

3
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy offers 3 DisplayPort outputs, which is more than 20.9% of graphics cards and equal to 77.3% of graphics cards.
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

1.4
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports DisplayPort 1.4, which is older than on 77.3% of graphics cards and equal to 16.2% of graphics cards.
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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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

225 W
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a TDP of 225 W, which is higher than that of 54.6% of graphics cards and equal to that of 1% of graphics cards.
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

232 W
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy draws 232 W under peak load, which is higher than 55.6% of graphics cards.
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

500 W
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy recommends a 500 W PSU, which is lower than that of 76.2% of graphics cards and equal to that of 9.6% of graphics cards.
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

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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

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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

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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

270 mm
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy is 270 mm long, which is shorter than 57.4% of graphics cards and equal in length to 0.3% of graphics cards.
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

124 mm
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy is 124 mm tall, which is shorter than 57.7% of graphics cards and equal in height to 1.7% of graphics cards.
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

856 g
XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy weighs 856 g, which is lighter than 65.2% of graphics cards and equal in weight to 0.2% of graphics cards.
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XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy vs the average graphics card

  • 2 more displays supported
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports more displays than the average graphics card (6 vs 4). The average graphics card supports 4 displays.
    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

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports more displays than the average graphics card (6 vs 4). The average graphics card supports 4 displays.6 vs 4
  • Includes dual BIOS
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy includes dual BIOS, the average graphics card does not.
    What it is: Includes dual BIOS for redundancy or overclocking profiles
    When it matters: When you want a safer recovery path after tweaking fan curves or overclock settings, or you need separate quiet and performance profiles.

    Importance: LOW

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy includes dual BIOS, the average graphics card does not.
  • 23.1% lower PSU requirement
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 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

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 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
  • 14.3% faster VRAM clock
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (2,000 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

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (2,000 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.2000 MHz vs 1750 MHz
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
    What it is: Number of DVI display outputs available
    When it matters: When you still use an older monitor that depends on DVI.

    Importance: LOW

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.1 vs 0
  • Better FP64 ratio
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a better FP64 ratio than the average graphics card (1:16 vs 1:64).
    What it is: Ratio of double-precision (FP64) to single-precision (FP32) performance
    When it matters: When you need to know whether FP64 is merely present or genuinely useful.

    Importance: LOW

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a better FP64 ratio than the average graphics card (1:16 vs 1:64).1:16 vs 1:64
  • 12.1% higher user score
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a higher user score than the average graphics card (8.97 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.
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a higher user score than the average graphics card (8.97 vs 8.000).8.97 vs 8
  • Supports multi-GPU linking
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
    What it is: Supports NVIDIA SLI or AMD CrossFire multi-GPU setup
    When it matters: When you still run legacy multi-GPU gaming or rendering workflows.

    Importance: LOW

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
  • Better FP64 ratio
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a better FP64 ratio than the average graphics card (1:16 vs 1:64).
  • 14.3% faster VRAM clock
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (2,000 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
  • Supports multi-GPU linking
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
  • 2 more displays supported
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports more displays than the average graphics card (6 vs 4). The average graphics card supports 4 displays.
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
  • 2 more monitors per output type
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports more monitors per output type than the average graphics card (6 vs 4). The average graphics card supports 4 monitors per output type.
  • Includes dual BIOS
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy includes dual BIOS, the average graphics card does not.
  • 23.1% lower PSU requirement
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 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.
  • 36.8% lower boost clock speed
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,580 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.
  • 70.1% lower pixel rate
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (49.4 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 165.2 GPixel/s.
  • 23.5% lower base clock speed
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,469 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.
  • 32 fewer ROPs
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has fewer ROPs than the average graphics card (32 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.
  • 41% lower texture rate
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (222.5 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.
  • 68.2% lower FP32 performance
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a lower FP32 performance than the average graphics card (7.3 TFLOPS vs 22.86 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP32 performance of 22.86 TFLOPS.
  • 40 fewer TMUs
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (144 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
  • 4 fewer compute units
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (36 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
  • 68.5% lower compute throughput
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a lower compute throughput than the average graphics card (7.3 TFLOPS vs 23.105 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has compute throughput of 23.105 TFLOPS.
  • 2,048 fewer FP32 units
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has fewer FP32 units than the average graphics card (2,304 vs 4,352). The average graphics card has 4,352 FP32 units.
  • 57.9% slower memory speed
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 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.
  • 4 GB less VRAM
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (8 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
  • 42.9% lower memory bandwidth
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 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.
  • 93.8% smaller L2 cache
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has fewer L2 cache than the average graphics card (2 MB vs 32 MB). The average graphics card has 32 MB L2 cache.
  • 87.5% smaller L1 cache
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has fewer L1 cache than the average graphics card (16 vs 128). The average graphics card has 128 L1 cache.
  • 2.4x larger process node
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a higher process node than the average graphics card (12 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.
  • Older PCIe version
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).
  • 5 older
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy was released earlier than the average graphics card (2,018 vs 2,023).
  • No mesh shaders
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy does not support mesh shaders, the average graphics card does.
  • Older Vulkan version
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports an older Vulkan version than the average graphics card (1.3 vs 1.4).
  • Older OpenCL version
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports an older OpenCL version than the average graphics card (2.1 vs 3.0).
  • 74% fewer transistors
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has fewer transistors than the average graphics card (5,700 million vs 21,900 million). The average graphics card has 21,900 million transistors.
  • Older shader model
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports an older shader model than the average graphics card (6.7 vs 6.8).
  • No AV1 encoding
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No AV1 decoding
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy does not support AV1 decoding, the average graphics card does.
  • Older DisplayPort version
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports an older DisplayPort version than the average graphics card (1.4 vs 1.4a).
  • Older HDMI version
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports an older HDMI version than the average graphics card (2.0b vs 2.1).
  • Older HDCP version
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports an older HDCP version than the average graphics card (2.2 vs 2.3).
  • Narrower decode codec support
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy supports narrower hardware decode codec support than the average graphics card (H.264 vs H.264/H.265/AV1/VP9).
  • Lower display resolution
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 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.
  • 1 fewer fans
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).
  • 4.7% higher TDP
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a higher TDP than the average graphics card (225 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
  • 36.8% lower boost clock speed
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,580 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 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

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,580 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.1580 MHz vs 2500 MHz
  • 2.4x larger process node
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a higher process node than the average graphics card (12 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

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a higher process node than the average graphics card (12 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.12 nm vs 5 nm
  • 1 fewer fans
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 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

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).2 vs 3
  • 70.1% lower pixel rate
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (49.4 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 165.2 GPixel/s.
    What it is: Number of pixels the GPU can render per second
    When it matters: When you play at high resolutions or care about older raster-heavy games.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (49.4 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 165.2 GPixel/s.49.44 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s
  • 57.9% slower memory speed
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 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.
    What it is: Effective memory data rate combining clock and bus width
    When it matters: When you compare how quickly each card can push data through its memory subsystem.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 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.8000 MHz vs 19000 MHz
  • 4 GB less VRAM
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 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

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 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
  • 32 fewer ROPs
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has fewer ROPs than the average graphics card (32 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.
    What it is: Total number of render output units on the GPU
    When it matters: When you want more context on pixel output capacity, especially for high-resolution play and older raster-heavy engines.

    Importance: HIGH

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has fewer ROPs than the average graphics card (32 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.32 vs 64
  • 23.5% lower base clock speed
    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,469 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 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

    XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,469 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.1469 MHz vs 1920 MHz

Graphic comparison of XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy and

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy?

  • Excellent 1080p performance, capable of high/ultra settings in AAA titles
  • Solid entry-level 1440p gaming capabilities
  • Good value for the performance-per-dollar ratio
  • Includes helpful dual BIOS switch for performance or quiet modes
  • Features a wide range of connectivity options, including legacy DVI-D support
  • Comes with a sturdy and aesthetic aluminum backplate

What customers dislike about XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy?

  • High power draw, often requiring a substantial power supply upgrade
  • Runs significantly hot under load, sometimes reaching 80°C or higher
  • Fans can become very loud and intrusive during intensive gaming sessions
  • Bulky 2.5-slot design (the 'Fatboy' name is literal) may not fit in all cases
  • Limited overclocking headroom as the card is already pushed near its architecture's limits
  • Build quality for the shroud can feel like cheap plastic to some users

Expert reviews

L
legitreviews.com
15/11/2018

The XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy represents AMD's third refinement of the Polaris GPU architecture, shifting from a 14nm to a 12nm FinFET manufacturing process. This architectural shrink allows the card to achieve a factory overclocked base clock speed of 1580MHz—with a guaranteed software overclock potential of 1600MHz—resulting in a 12% performance boost over the previous generation...Read more

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hardwarecanucks.com
15/11/2018

The AMD Radeon RX 590 is launched as a holiday placeholder built on a refined 12nm manufacturing process, extending the aging Polaris architecture to achieve a significant clock speed jump over previous generations. In terms of performance pros, the card successfully targets the sub-$300 market and serves as a highly capable, future-proof option for 1080p gaming that can easily pull...Read more

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techspot.com
15/11/2018

The TechSpot review describes the AMD Radeon RX 590 as a 12nm refresh of the RX 580, offering superior performance over the RX 580 and GTX 1060 6GB with 8GB of VRAM and FreeSync support. However, at a $280 launch price, the card suffers from poor cost-per-frame value, being roughly 32% more expensive per frame than the cheaper RX 580, alongside significantly higher power...Read more

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overclockersclub.com
16/11/2018

The XFX RX 590 Fatboy is a highly competent, budget-friendly 12nm GPU designed for 1080p gaming, boasting a 1580MHz True Clock and robust, silent cooling via the specialized Unibody VRM heatsink. Priced at $279 with a three-game bundle, it offers excellent value, supported by an aluminum backplate, dual BIOS, and a passive 0dB fan mode. Cons include a lackluster, non-illuminated...Read more

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guru3d.com
16/11/2018

The Radeon RX 590 XFX Fatboy is a solid performer for 1080p and QHD (1440p) gaming, offering a 5% to 10% performance increase over its predecessor, the RX 580. Built on a smaller 12nm node refresh of the 2016 Polaris architecture, it clocks higher out of the box and features 8GB of memory that can be overclocked to reach 9.0 Gbps. In terms of performance pros, the card tweaks nicely...Read more

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overclock3d.net
15/11/2018

The XFX RX 590 Fatboy delivers strong 1080p gaming performance and capable 1440p functionality, driven by a high factory overclock on AMD's 12nm Polaris architecture. Key advantages include the robust, aesthetic-enhancing aluminum backplate and a competitive price point, according to Overclock3D. However, the review identifies significant drawbacks, including a "cheap" looking...Read more

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gamersnexus.net
05/01/2019

The XFX RX 590 Fatboy delivers decent gaming value out of the box for its $ 2 6 0 – $ 2 7 0 price point, acting as a pre-overclocked refresh of the RX 580. In terms of performance pros, the underlying AMD silicon outclasses the standard GTX 1060 6GB across most tested titles like Sniper Elite 4, F1 2018, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider, while maintaining highly competitive, fluid...Read more

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pcworld.com
15/11/2018

The XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy leverages a refined 12nm process and higher clock speeds to outperform Nvidia’s 6GB GTX 1060, delivering strong 1080p and capable 1440p gaming performance. Key advantages include an included dual-BIOS switch for performance or silence, FreeSync support, and a competitive bundle of free games. PCWorld However, the card is significantly limited by high...Read more

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pcmag.com
15/01/2019

The PCMag review of the XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy highlights the card as a capable, factory-overclocked 1080p gaming option that delivers significant performance gains over the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 6GB, often exceeding 30% higher frame rates. It features an aluminum backplate for improved cooling and robust, versatile display connectivity, aiming to provide a high-speed, 12nm...Read more

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guru3d.com
16/11/2018

The XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 8GB is a mainstream graphics card built on AMD’s Polaris 30 architecture, which utilizes a shrunk-down 12nm FinFET manufacturing node. This process shrink allows the GPU to achieve higher clock frequencies—pushing a 1580 MHz boost clock—while maintaining the same 2304 shader processors and 8GB of 256-bit GDDR5 memory as its predecessors. In terms of...Read more

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techpowerup.com
15/11/2018

The TechPowerUp review of the XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 8 GB positions the card as a strong, budget-friendly 1080p gaming solution, utilizing a 12 nm "Polaris 30" architecture to reach 1545 MHz out of the box. Key pros include performance that surpasses the NVIDIA GTX 1060 6GB at a $279 price point, supported by a robust VRM, a triple-slot cooler, and a quiet idle-fan-stop feature....Read more

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hardwareluxx.de
15/11/2018

Here is a detailed summary of the Hardwareluxx review evaluating the third iteration of AMD's Polaris architecture, specifically testing the PowerColor Radeon RX 590 Red Devil and the XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy OC+: Review Overview and Architecture This review examines AMD's decision to refresh its mainstream Polaris GPU architecture for a third time by moving from a 14nm to an...Read more

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hardware.info
04/12/2018

The Hardware Info review evaluates three custom-engineered partner models—the PowerColor Red Devil, Sapphire Nitro+ Special Edition, and XFX Fatboy—all based on AMD’s refined 12nm Polaris GPU. Designed to comfortably bridge the performance void between the older RX 580 and the premium RX Vega 56, the RX 590 serves as an optimized, higher-clocked alternative for 1080p gaming. On the...Read more

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guru3d.com
16/11/2018

The Guru3D review of the XFX Radeon RX 590 Fatboy 8GB highlights the 12nm Polaris 30 card as a capable option for 1080p and 1440p gaming, featuring 8GB GDDR5 memory and a factory-overclocked 1580 MHz core. Priced at $279 USD, it offers solid value with stable overclocking capabilities up to 1600 MHz. Conversely, the card is criticized for a lackluster cooling solution that results...Read more

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