Intel To The Rescue? Arc Battlemage B580 & B570 Specs, Pricing, Release Date, Performance

Intel's Arc Battlemage B580 and B570 graphics cards are designed for the mainstream market with a focus on affordability and performance. The B580 is expected to offer performance comparable to the Nvidia RTX 4060 at a lower price, while the B570 is a slightly less powerful and cheaper alternative. The introduction of XeSS 2 frame generation and improved software tools aim to compete with Nvidia and AMD, but Intel's driver track record and the impending release of new GPUs from competitors may affect the overall success and value proposition of these cards.

Arc B580 & B570 Specs

• 00:00:06 Intel announces the Arc B580 and B570 graphics cards, targeting the mainstream market with prices of $250 and $220, respectively. The B580 launches on December 13th, while the B570 launches on January 16th. These cards utilize the Xe2 architecture, offering improved performance per core and power efficiency compared to the previous generation Alchemist cards.

Xe2 Architecture

• 00:01:10 The new Xe2 architecture features significant improvements in various aspects of the GPU, including the front end, shader units, and ray tracing units. Intel claims a 70% performance improvement per XE core and a 50% improvement in power efficiency. This is attributed to a shift to TSMC's N5 process technology and architectural improvements.

Performance Claims

• 00:05:27 Intel claims the B580 is 24% faster than the Arc A750 and 10% faster than the GeForce RTX 4060 on average in a 47-game sample at 1440p Ultra settings. It's also claimed to be 96% faster than the GeForce GTX 1660 Super. Intel aims to offer a better value proposition in the mainstream segment compared to competitors like AMD and Nvidia.

XeSS 2 & Software

• 00:12:29 Intel launches XeSS 2, the next iteration of their upscaling technology, featuring frame generation and a low-latency mode similar to features from Nvidia and AMD. It requires Intel's Xe Matrix Extensions (XMX) AI engines and is available on older Arc GPUs and new Battlemage GPUs. Alongside, a revamped Intel Graphics Command Center with new features like FPS overlay and expanded overclocking options is also launched.

Value Proposition & Competition

• 00:07:30 The value proposition of the B580 and B570 is debated, as the $250 price point for the B580 may be perceived as slightly underwhelming compared to competitor offerings. Intel's driver history and the anticipated launch of new generation GPUs from AMD and Nvidia in early 2025 might influence consumer choices. Intel's continued commitment to competitive pricing will be crucial to building market share.