AMD Radeon R9 280 3GB vs. Radeon Vega 5 Graphics

Attribute	AMD Radeon R9 280 3GB	Radeon Vega 5 Graphics
Manufacturer	AMD	AMD
Release Year	2014	2017
Memory	3GB GDDR5	Integrated
Architecture	GCN 1.1	Vega
Performance	Mid-range	Entry-level

Performance

When it comes to performance, the AMD Radeon R9 280 3GB is a mid-range graphics card that was released in 2014. It features 3GB of GDDR5 memory and 1792 stream processors, which allows it to handle most modern games at 1080p resolution with decent frame rates. On the other hand, the Radeon Vega 5 Graphics is an integrated GPU that is commonly found in budget laptops. It offers significantly lower performance compared to the R9 280, making it suitable for light gaming and everyday tasks rather than demanding AAA titles.

Architecture

The Radeon R9 280 is based on the Graphics Core Next (GCN) 1.0 architecture, which was a significant improvement over its predecessor in terms of performance and power efficiency. It also supports DirectX 12 and OpenGL 4.4, allowing it to run the latest games and applications. In contrast, the Radeon Vega 5 Graphics is built on the newer Vega architecture, which offers better performance per watt and improved efficiency. It also supports newer technologies such as Vulkan and FreeSync, providing a more modern gaming experience.

Memory

As mentioned earlier, the Radeon R9 280 comes with 3GB of GDDR5 memory, which is sufficient for most gaming scenarios at 1080p resolution. The memory bandwidth of the R9 280 is 224 GB/s, allowing it to handle high-resolution textures and effects with ease. On the other hand, the Radeon Vega 5 Graphics uses system memory for its graphics processing, which can lead to lower performance compared to dedicated VRAM. This can be a limiting factor when playing games or running graphics-intensive applications.

Connectivity

Both the Radeon R9 280 and Radeon Vega 5 Graphics offer a variety of connectivity options. The R9 280 comes with two DVI ports, one HDMI port, and one DisplayPort, allowing users to connect multiple monitors or TVs. It also supports AMD CrossFire technology for multi-GPU setups. The Radeon Vega 5 Graphics, being an integrated GPU, typically comes with fewer connectivity options, such as one HDMI port and one DisplayPort. This can be a limitation for users who require multiple display outputs.

Power Consumption

One of the key differences between the Radeon R9 280 and Radeon Vega 5 Graphics is their power consumption. The R9 280 is a dedicated graphics card that requires a separate power connector from the power supply unit. It has a TDP of around 200W, which is relatively high compared to modern GPUs. On the other hand, the Radeon Vega 5 Graphics is an integrated GPU that draws power from the laptop's battery or power supply. It has a much lower TDP, typically around 15-25W, making it more energy-efficient and suitable for portable devices.

Price

When it comes to pricing, the Radeon R9 280 can be found on the used market for around $100-$150, depending on the condition and seller. It offers good value for budget gamers who are looking for decent performance at a low cost. On the other hand, laptops with Radeon Vega 5 Graphics are typically priced higher due to the inclusion of other components such as the CPU, RAM, and storage. This can make them less attractive for users on a tight budget.