Intel has unveiled its second-generation discrete desktop graphics cards aimed at PC gaming, featuring the Xe2 architecture-based models Battlemage Arc B580 and B570. Infamously leaked the week prior, these GPUs are specifically tailored for the $200-300 price segment, intending to compete directly with Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 3050 and 4060 as well as AMD’s Radeon RX 7600 and 7600 XT. By entering this competitive arena, Intel seeks to disrupt the low-end graphics card market, which is currently dominated by these longstanding players, marking a significant escalation in its efforts to cement a foothold in the GPU landscape.
The performance of the new Intel Arc A580 and B570 demonstrates considerable advancements over their predecessors. According to Intel’s claims, the Arc B580 is reported to be, on average, 24% faster at 1440p compared to the previous model, the Arc A750, and boasts up to 50% greater performance per watt. More significantly, it offers 32% improved performance per dollar when compared to similar options from both Nvidia and AMD, although Intel refrained from specifying exact competitor models in its announcements. This performance leap positions the newer Arc models as enticing options for budget-conscious gamers who prioritize value without sacrificing speed.
In terms of pricing, the Arc B580 is set to retail at $249, while the B570 is priced at $219, aligning them effectively against some of the more affordable offerings from both Nvidia and AMD. This strategic pricing is designed to highlight the enhanced performance of Intel’s new cards, with Intel claiming an average speed improvement of 24% for similarly priced products in the market. This alignment suggests that gamers looking to upgrade or build a new rig could consider these new GPUs as viable contenders against existing models from AMD and Nvidia.
One of the standout features of the Arc A580 and A570 is their memory capacity. The Arc 580 comes equipped with an impressive 12GB of memory, 50% more than its predecessor, addressing criticism that has been directed at cheaper models from Nvidia, particularly the RTX 4060 series, which has just 8GB of memory. As gaming demands continue to rise, this increase in memory is crucial; 8GB is often considered insufficient for delivering optimal performance even at lower resolutions. Intel’s decision to enhance memory capacity in these new cards is likely to bolster their appeal, especially in a market where users are becoming more conscious of memory requirements for modern gaming.
Availability for the Arc B580 and B570 has been announced, with many established add-in board partners including Acer, ASRock, GUNNIR, ONIXX, MAXSUN, and Sparkle set to launch the B580 on December 13th, 2023, priced at $249. Meanwhile, the B570 will hit shelves beginning January 16, 2025, starting at $219. The initiation of these releases will be closely watched by both consumers and competitors alike, as Intel seeks to capitalize on a market that has seen minimal new entries recently, largely dominated by older models while listing plans for its own Limited Edition version of the B580.
Ultimately, Intel’s latest graphics cards mark a significant move to challenge Nvidia’s and AMD’s hold on the mid to low-tier market, particularly against the backdrop of minimal innovation and new product releases in this category. Despite facing considerable challenges in optimizing performance across numerous games, early testing indicates that Intel has made notable strides, although some work remains to be done. The introduction of affordable options like the Arc B580 and B570 presents a much-needed shift in the graphics card landscape, particularly as gamers seek alternatives below the $300 threshold while prices for existing models continue to hold steady or climb. This recognition of a gap in the market suggests that Intel is committed to advancing its position in the gaming realm, promising to invigorate competition and choice for consumers.
