Is the RX 470 4GB still a relevant gaming GPU for 1080p in 2025, or is its VRAM a major issue?
The 4GB VRAM is a major hurdle for new AAA titles in 2025, forcing low texture settings and causing stuttering. However, for eSports and older games, the RX 470 is still very relevant, offering excellent FPS for its used price.
Can I use an RX 470 in a small form factor (SFF) PC, and should I look for specific models?
Yes, look for the 'ITX' or 'Nano' style, single-fan RX 470 models, which are compact and often draw less power. Be aware that these typically have higher internal temperatures than full-size cards.
What is the primary competitive equivalent to the RX 470 on the used market (e.g., NVIDIA) in 2025?
The RX 470 is most comparable to the NVIDIA GTX 1060 3GB. The RX 470 generally performs better in DX12/Vulkan titles and when VRAM is pushed, while the GTX 1060 3GB is often more power-efficient.
Is the price difference between a used RX 470 4GB and an RX 570 8GB large enough to choose the older card?
If the RX 470 4GB is significantly cheaper (by 30% or more), it's a good deal for eSports. However, if the prices are close, the RX 570 8GB is a much better investment for future-proofing against VRAM limitations.
Is the RX 470 powerful enough to handle basic 1080p video editing and live streaming on Twitch?
Yes, for basic video editing and live streaming eSports games, the RX 470 is sufficient. It uses AMD's older but still functional VCE encoder, but you should stream at lower bitrates or 720p to maintain system performance.
What is the longevity outlook for the RX 470 drivers, given its age in 2025?
The RX 470 is on the legacy driver branch, meaning it will likely only receive critical security or major OS compatibility updates. New game-specific optimizations from AMD are no longer being released, so stability relies on older, proven drivers.
What is a safe and quiet way to improve the thermal performance of a used RX 470?
The best way is to clean the card thoroughly, replace the thermal paste, and then use the AMD Adrenalin software to apply a slight undervolt (reduce voltage) and a modest custom fan curve for a cooler, quieter experience.
How do I check if the version of the RX 470 I'm buying has 2048 or 2048/2047 Stream Processors?
The full-specification RX 470 has 2048 Stream Processors. A lower-end version known as the 'RX 470D' (Chinese market) may have fewer. Always use GPU-Z to verify the Stream Processor count of a used card before purchase.
Can the RX 470 run games like Fortnite or Apex Legends at competitive frame rates in 2025?
Yes, the RX 470 excels at these titles. With optimized settings (medium/low), you can easily achieve 60-80+ FPS in Apex Legends and often over 100 FPS in Fortnite, making it highly competitive.
What is the recommended PSU wattage for a full PC build featuring the RX 470?
A high-quality 450W power supply is the minimum recommended for a system with the RX 470. A 500W PSU will provide ample headroom for almost any modern CPU pairing.
