Performance comparison: which is faster?
Radeon RX 550 (AMD, 2017) and Radeon HD 6850 (AMD, 2011) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: RX 550 is about 7.1% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM RX 550（2GB） 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 | RX 550 | HD 6850 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 3,000 | 2,800 |
| VRAM | 2GB | 1GB |
| Manufacturer | AMD | AMD |
| Series | RX 5000 | HD 6000 |
| Release Year | 2017 | 2011 |
| Compatible CPU Example | AMD Phenom II X2 560 | AMD Athlon II X3 445 |
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 RX 550 also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | RX 550 |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | RX 550 |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | HD 6850 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RX 550 is about 7.1% higher by score (RX 550: 3000 points / HD 6850: 2800 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.
RX 550 has 2GB of VRAM, while HD 6850 has 1GB; RX 550 has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, AMD Phenom II X2 560 pairs well with RX 550 and AMD Athlon II X3 445 with HD 6850 (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
→ RX 550 Details ／ HD 6850 Details ／ Compare Another Combination
