The Radeon RX 570 is an older 1080p graphics card, but it can still make a good gaming PC if you set realistic targets. The 4GB version is best suited to esports, older AAA games, and medium settings. The 8GB version gives newer games more breathing room, although its aging Polaris architecture remains the main limitation.
Expect the best results at 1080p with medium settings and a sensible frame-rate target of 60fps. Some competitive games can run much faster. Newer, graphically demanding releases may require low settings, reduced textures, upscaling, or a locked 30–45fps. Ray tracing is not a practical target for this card.
What the RX 570 can handle
The RX 570 has enough rasterization performance for a large library of games. Its main weaknesses are power consumption, age, and limited video memory on 4GB cards. It also lacks modern hardware features found on newer AMD, Intel, and NVIDIA GPUs.
| Game type | Typical 1080p target | Recommended settings |
|---|---|---|
| Competitive esports | 60–144fps, depending on the game | Low to medium; prioritize frame rate |
| Older AAA games | 60fps or more | Medium to high, often with room for texture upgrades |
| Well-optimized modern games | 45–60fps | Low to medium, use upscaling where available |
| Very demanding new releases | 30–45fps, sometimes less | Low settings, reduced resolution, and limited expectations |
These are practical ranges rather than guarantees. CPU speed, RAM, cooling, drivers, and the particular game can move performance substantially. A six-core processor and 16GB of dual-channel memory are a better match than an old four-core CPU with 8GB of single-channel RAM.
Best games for the RX 570
Counter-Strike 2
Counter-Strike 2 is playable on the RX 570, but it is more CPU-sensitive than Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. Use low or medium settings, keep shadows and effects under control, and avoid chasing a high refresh-rate target if your processor is older. The RX 570 is suitable for 60Hz and 75Hz gaming; competitive players seeking consistently high frame rates should consider a newer GPU and CPU.
Valorant, League of Legends, and Dota 2
These games are easy recommendations for an RX 570. At 1080p, the card has ample performance for high frame rates, especially with competitive settings. In this group, the processor and monitor often matter more than the graphics card. A 4GB RX 570 is fine unless you also want to play demanding modern games.
Fortnite
Fortnite gives you several useful settings profiles. Performance Mode or low settings can produce a responsive experience, while the standard rendering mode at medium settings offers better image quality. Avoid hardware-intensive features such as ray tracing. If the game stutters, reduce view distance and textures, then check that the system has 16GB of RAM.
Minecraft
Standard Minecraft runs well, but the answer changes with mods and shaders. Large modpacks can become limited by system memory and CPU performance. Shader packs may push the RX 570 hard, especially at high render distances. For modded play, prioritize 16GB or 32GB of system RAM and use moderate render distances before replacing the graphics card.
Grand Theft Auto V
GTA V remains a strong fit. High settings at 1080p are possible in many areas, but the advanced graphics options can consume performance for small visual gains. Keep extended-distance options conservative, particularly in busy city scenes. The RX 570 is also a sensible card for older open-world games such as The Witcher 3, Fallout 4, and Skyrim Special Edition.
Rocket League and other lighter multiplayer games
Rocket League, Overwatch 2, Rainbow Six Siege, and similar games are generally comfortable at 1080p. The RX 570 can provide a smooth 60fps experience and often more with competitive settings. For a budget gaming PC primarily used for these titles, replacing the card is unnecessary unless you want a 144Hz display and consistently high frame rates.
Forza Horizon 4 and Forza Horizon 5
Forza Horizon 4 is a good match at 1080p medium to high settings. Forza Horizon 5 is more demanding but remains playable with medium settings and sensible texture choices. The 8GB version is preferable for this type of game, though the 4GB card can work if you lower textures and accept occasional streaming or frame-time issues.
Resident Evil 2, Resident Evil 3, and Resident Evil 4
Capcom’s RE Engine games are relatively scalable. Resident Evil 2 and 3 run well at 1080p with medium settings. Resident Evil 4 is heavier, so start at low or medium settings and watch the video-memory indicator. If it exceeds the card’s available VRAM, reduce textures first. Exceeding the memory budget can cause hitching even when the average frame rate looks acceptable.
Cyberpunk 2077 and newer AAA games
Cyberpunk 2077 is near the edge of what an RX 570 should handle. Use 1080p low settings, disable ray tracing, and use an available upscaling mode if image quality remains acceptable. Expect compromises rather than a locked 60fps experience. Newer games with demanding lighting, large worlds, or high-resolution textures may technically launch but deliver poor frame pacing or frequent stutter.
RX 570 4GB or 8GB?
Choose the 8GB version when the price difference is small. Extra VRAM helps with texture quality and reduces the chance of memory-related stutter in newer games. It does not turn the RX 570 into a faster-generation card, so average frame rates will not double.
The 4GB version is still fine for esports, older games, emulation, and a low-cost 1080p system. It becomes a poor fit when you regularly play modern open-world titles or want high texture settings. Before buying used hardware, check the exact VRAM capacity, cooler condition, display outputs, and whether the card was used for cryptocurrency mining.
What to check before buying an RX 570
Most RX 570 cards are now used purchases. Search used RX 570 graphics cards only if the price is clearly below newer entry-level options. An old card with a failing fan or no warranty is not a bargain.
- Power supply: Verify that your PSU has the required six-pin or eight-pin connector and enough capacity. A reliable 450W to 500W unit is usually a safer target than an unbranded high-wattage supply.
- Physical clearance: Some versions are thick two-slot or longer designs. Measure your case before ordering.
- Cooling: Listen for grinding fans and check temperatures under load. Excessive heat can cause clock-speed drops and crashes.
- Testing: Run a demanding game or a short graphics benchmark. Look for artifacts, black screens, driver resets, and sudden fan behavior.
- Drivers: Install the correct AMD driver for your operating system and check current support before purchase. Do not assume every old listing includes working software.
When a newer card is the better buy
If an RX 570 costs close to a newer budget GPU, skip it. A newer card can offer similar performance with lower power use, better media-engine support, longer driver support, and features such as improved upscaling or frame generation. Browse budget 1080p graphics cards when you want a new warranty and fewer unknowns.
Keep the RX 570 if you already own one and mainly play esports, older AAA games, or games that run well at medium settings. Replace it when you need stable performance in recent releases, higher refresh rates, or lower electricity use. In that situation, spending more on a current entry-level or midrange GPU is usually more sensible than paying extra for a better-condition example of the same old card.
FAQ
Is the RX 570 still good for 1080p gaming?
Yes, for esports and older games. It is a compromised choice for demanding modern releases, where low settings and upscaling may be necessary.
Is 4GB enough for an RX 570?
It is enough for competitive games and many older titles. The 8GB version is preferable for modern open-world games and higher texture settings.
Can an RX 570 run Fortnite?
Yes. Use Performance Mode or low-to-medium settings, disable ray tracing, and lower view distance or effects if frame rates become unstable.
What power supply does an RX 570 need?
A reliable 450W to 500W PSU is a sensible match for most systems, but check the specific card’s connector and your other components before buying.
