Performance comparison: which is faster?
Radeon R9 390 (AMD, 2015) and Radeon R9 290X (AMD, 2014) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: R9 390 is about 7.7% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM R9 390（8GB） has the advantage. For gaming, prioritize performance score and CPU compatibility; for AI, prioritize VRAM.
Relative performance score (higher is faster). Actual fps varies by resolution, game, and CPU configuration.
| Item | R9 390 | R9 290X |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 7,000 | 6,500 |
| VRAM | 8GB | 4GB |
| Manufacturer | AMD | AMD |
| Series | R9 | R9 |
| Release Year | 2015 | 2014 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Ryzen 3 1200 | AMD Phenom II X6 1090T |
These generative AI models can run on only one GPU because of the VRAM difference (Stable Diffusion, Flux, LLMs, and others).
— None (all models that run on R9 390 also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | R9 390 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | R9 390 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | R9 290X (the lower model is often sufficient) |
R9 390 is about 7.7% higher by score (R9 390: 7000 points / R9 290X: 6500 points). Actual fps also varies by resolution, game, and CPU, so price is a reasonable deciding factor when the gap is only a few percent.
R9 390 has 8GB of VRAM, while R9 290X has 4GB; R9 390 has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, Ryzen 3 1200 pairs well with R9 390 and AMD Phenom II X6 1090T with R9 290X (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
→ R9 390 Details ／ R9 290X Details ／ Compare Another Combination
