AMD Radeon R9 280X vs AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT
The AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT is the faster card by roughly 9%. Here is how the two compare across every spec that matters for gaming.
| Specification | AMD Radeon R9 280X | AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT |
|---|---|---|
| Performance score | 11/100 | 12/100 |
| Tier | D | D |
| VRAM | 3 GB | 4 GB |
| Power draw (TDP) | 250 W | 107 W |
| Launch MSRP | $299 | $199 |
| Performance per $100 | 3.7 | 6.0 |
| Release year | 2013 | 2022 |
| DLSS | — No | — No |
| FSR | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| XeSS | — No | — No |
| Ray tracing | — No | ✓ Yes |
Which should you buy?
The AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT is the stronger performer of the two, and it is the default choice if raw frame rate is what you care about. The AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT carries more VRAM (4GB vs 3GB), which matters at 1440p and above and for texture-heavy titles. The AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT draws 143W less, so it is easier on your power supply and case cooling — check the PSU calculator before committing. On launch pricing, the AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT offers better performance per dollar.