The AMD RX 590 is the objective winner of this comparison, securing more individual specification victories than the AMD RX 480. The most significant technical advantage held by the AMD RX 590 is its base clock speed, which is 31% higher than that of its counterpart. While the AMD RX 480 maintains a 29% advantage in its original MSRP, the superior clock frequency provides the AMD RX 590 with a clear lead in core performance specifications.

Users prioritizing raw clock speed and higher-tier specifications should select the AMD RX 590 for their build. Conversely, the AMD RX 480 remains the logical choice for budget-conscious buyers who value the 29% advantage in MSRP over the increased base clock speed offered by the newer model. Choosing between these two components depends entirely on whether your primary goal is maximizing base clock performance or minimizing the initial cost of the hardware.