Performance comparison: which is faster?
Radeon RX 5600 XT (AMD, 2020) and Radeon RX 5500 XT (AMD, 2020) are compared here. Compare scores and VRAM, generative AI usability, and CPUs that pair well with each GPU.
Overall performance: RX 5600 XT is about 31.6% faster
For generative AI, the higher-VRAM RX 5500 XT（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 | RX 5600 XT | RX 5500 XT |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 12,500 | 9,500 |
| VRAM | 6GB | 8GB |
| Manufacturer | AMD | AMD |
| Series | RX 5000 | RX 5000 |
| Release Year | 2020 | 2020 |
| Compatible CPU Example | Ryzen 5 1400 | Core i7-3770K |
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 5500 XT also run here)
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize high fps and smooth performance in demanding games | RX 5600 XT |
| Run larger generative AI and LLM models | RX 5500 XT |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | RX 5500 XT (the lower model is often sufficient) |
RX 5600 XT is about 31.6% higher by score (RX 5600 XT: 12500 points / RX 5500 XT: 9500 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 5600 XT has 6GB of VRAM, while RX 5500 XT has 8GB; RX 5500 XT has more. If image generation or a local LLM is even a possibility, the higher-VRAM option provides more room.
Using our guideline, Ryzen 5 1400 pairs well with RX 5600 XT and Core i7-3770K with RX 5500 XT (CPU:GPU ≈ 0.9:1). If the CPU is too weak, replacing the GPU may not raise fps, so check the combination before buying.
