Hey all!
I’m currently looking to upgrade my Radeon 6600 8GB GPU in my primary gaming rig and I’m currently torn between the Radeon 9600 XT 16GB, which is a “known variable” or the Intel B580 12GB. Obviously, the B580 is around $75-100 cheaper comparing MSRP to MSRP and I’ve been seeing both pop randomly into stock the last few weeks where I could nab either with a properly timed deal alert.
I’m wondering how all of you Intel Battlemage gamers on Linux have been enjoying your cards. I know Intel has done a lot of work to make it work well on Linux, but there is MUCH less coverage of performance on Linux than on Windows. Most stuff I see is from launch time, which is 6+ months ago, and I know driver support has gained a lot of ground since then.
My primary rig is an AM4-based system with a 5800X CPU, so REBAR and PCIe 4.0 are not a problem for me.
The cost difference may reflect the performance difference.
I’m assuming you meant the RX 9060 XT? It is significantly more powerful than the B580.
I’d say the AMD card is the better purchase - it’s more powerful and the drivers are well established with lots of support online for solving issues with specific games with Proton. Most of the time things just work but to be using a card and platform that is widely used makes life easier.
It’s great Intel are supporting Linux and there is more competition in the graphics market, but I personally wouldn’t suggest being a pioneer buying their cards. You’re already doing something a bit unusual by gaming on Linux (even if it’s growing rapidly). I wouldn’t throw a new relatively niche card into the mix for now. It’d probably be fine but I’d stump up the extra cash for a better card that might last you a few years longer for AAA games.