AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT 8GB has electrified the parties concerned, and not just because of its size of VRAM. Word on the street says this 8GB variant is available for fewer reviewers, particularly those from the bigger outlets, as compared to its beefier 16GB sibling. So what's the official line from AMD It's a "supply chain move." But is there more to it
It's pretty easy to surmise skepticism from different quarters regarding the release of 8GB cards by AMD and NVIDIA when most AAA games today demand so much more from one's CPU and GPU. People were saying, "Back in the days of modern games, 8GB won't do it at better settings." Furthermore, consumers who are, say, not very familiar with product naming conventions (for example, RX 9060 XT) may assume that the performance is equivalent, possibly missing the prominent differences, as reviews would often mention.
It is quite common for AMD to make some observational comments when one compares it with NVIDIA in respect of sending out review units for an 8GB card; however, the 16GB model has been given the priority. Intriguingly, there are indications that the smaller publications of tech had it over the bigger tech destinations as far as the 8GB Radeon RX 9060 XT goes. Such distribution is interesting and, more so, since it is the first time this has happened with the company while launching just a single GPU model with different VRAM options.
Then what is AMD's justification for such varied distribution According to certain review guidelines shared by tech channels, including Linus Tech Tips (LTT), AMD states:
"Our Commitment to the Press At AMD, we believe in supporting transparent, independent coverage that helps customers make informed decisions."
"To that end, we provide you, our press partners, with review samples and drivers ahead of product launches so that you would have the time and tools needed to produce thorough, independent reviews."
"As for the 8GB models, AMD has enabled global reviews of both 16GB and 8GB models of the Radeon RX 9060 XT based on regional market demand. So in short, yes, there are some other global publications that are receiving 8GB models for testing." - AMD (via LTT).
Naturally, AMD would benefit much from the spotlight shining solely on the more powerful 16GB model. However, the explanation of "regional market demand" to distribute review sample showed that it was somewhat new to the GPU launch norm. Such review restrictions do, intentionally or unintentionally, spoil the reputation, no matter how much more transparent AMD is than its competitors.
Preliminary reviews on the Radeon RX 9060 XT 8GB indicate that the GPU would hold its own when measuring performance against NVIDIA's RTX 5060 8GB. The question at stake, however, has nothing to do with performance but rather the perceived strategies behind who gets to test which hardware.
As always, the best advice for consumers is patience. Wait for a more intensive and extensive review from sources you trust before rushing into a purchase decision on any newly designed GPU from AMD or NVIDIA. Performance can vary, and understanding the full picture is crucial, especially when different VRAM configurations are in play under the same product name.
Remember that informed decisions are the best decisions when it comes to your hard-earned money.
