The AMD RX 580 is the objective winner of this comparison, securing more individual specification victories than the AMD RX 480. While both cards share identical ratings in the majority of categories, the AMD RX 580 provides the most significant performance advantage with a 12% higher base clock speed. This improvement in clock frequency serves as the primary differentiator between the two components, establishing the newer model as the superior option for raw speed.

Users prioritizing higher clock speeds should select the AMD RX 580 to benefit from its superior base frequency. Conversely, the AMD RX 480 remains the better choice for those who prioritize power efficiency, as it offers a 19% advantage in TDP. By choosing based on these specific technical trade-offs, buyers can align their hardware selection with either a preference for increased base clock performance or a requirement for lower power consumption.