AMD has expanded its RDNA 3 graphics card lineup with the unannounced launch of the Radeon RX 7700. This new GPU features a substantial 16GB of GDDR6 memory on a 256-bit bus, mirroring the RX 7800 XT’s memory configuration. However, it utilizes a cut-down Navi 32 die, resulting in reduced core performance compared to the RX 7700 XT.
Key Takeaways
- Generous VRAM: The RX 7700 boasts 16GB of GDDR6 memory, a step up from the RX 7700 XT’s 12GB.
- Wider Memory Bus: It features a 256-bit memory bus, providing 624 GB/s of bandwidth, matching the RX 7800 XT.
- Reduced Core Count: The GPU is powered by a cut-down Navi 32 chip with 2,560 Stream Processors and 40 Compute Units, a decrease from the RX 7700 XT.
- Performance Dip: AMD’s own data suggests a performance decrease of around 16-20% compared to the RX 7700 XT.
- Increased Power Draw: Despite lower performance, the RX 7700 has a reported Total Board Power (TBP) of 263W, slightly higher than the RX 7700 XT’s 245W.
- OEM Focus: The silent launch and lack of official pricing suggest this card is primarily targeted at OEMs and system integrators.
A Curious Mix of Specifications
The Radeon RX 7700 is built on the RDNA 3 architecture and utilizes a Navi 32 GPU that has been significantly altered. It features 40 Compute Units, translating to 2,560 Stream Processors and 80 AI accelerators. This configuration places it between the RX 7600 XT and the RX 7700 XT in terms of raw processing power.
Where the RX 7700 distinguishes itself is in its memory subsystem. It comes equipped with 16GB of GDDR6 memory running at 19.5 Gbps across a 256-bit memory interface. This configuration results in a memory bandwidth of 624 GB/s, identical to the RX 7800 XT and a notable improvement over the RX 7700 XT’s 432 GB/s (12GB GDDR6 on a 192-bit bus).
Specification Comparison
| GPU Specs | Radeon RX 7700 | Radeon RX 7700 XT | Radeon RX 7800 XT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stream Processors | 2,560 | 3,456 | 3,840 |
| Compute Units | 40 | 54 | 60 |
| VRAM | 16GB GDDR6 | 12GB GDDR6 | 16GB GDDR6 |
| Memory Bus | 256-bit | 192-bit | 256-bit |
| Bandwidth | 624 GB/sec | 432 GB/sec | 624 GB/sec |
| Infinity Cache | 40 MB | 48 MB | 64 MB |
| AI Accelerators | 80 (1st Gen) | 108 (1st Gen) | 120 (1st Gen) |
| TBP | 263 W | 245 W | 263 W |
Performance and Efficiency Concerns
AMD’s provided gaming benchmarks indicate that the RX 7700 is approximately 16-20% slower than the RX 7700 XT in various titles, even when comparing similar settings. This performance deficit, coupled with a slightly higher power draw of 263W compared to the 7700 XT’s 245W, raises questions about its efficiency.
Market Positioning and Availability
The subdued launch and the unusual specification mix suggest that the Radeon RX 7700 is intended for the OEM market, likely to be found in pre-built systems rather than for direct consumer purchase. AMD has not yet announced any pricing or specific availability details for the retail channel. Given its performance relative to the RX 7700 XT and the presence of the RX 7800 XT and RX 9060 XT, the RX 7700 would need to be priced very competitively to be a viable option for DIY builders if it were to appear on the retail market.
Via AMD
