AMD

R9 290

Gaming Graphics Card

4 GB VRAM 2013 Perf. index: 21

Performance index derived from aggregated PassMark benchmark data, normalized to the FPSpilot 0-100 scale.

The AMD R9 290 is a graphics card with 4 GB of VRAM launched in 2013. Its FPSpilot gaming performance index is 21/100, derived from aggregated PassMark benchmarks.

Specifications

Manufacturer	AMD
VRAM Memory	4 GB
Release year	2013
Perf. index	21 / 100

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Gaming performance

With an index of 21/100, the AMD R9 290 is today an entry-level or veteran card. It performs well in esports and older titles at 1080p with moderate settings, but modern AAA releases require lowering quality or resolution to keep playable frame rates.

VRAM: what resolutions it handles

Its 4 GB of VRAM falls short of today's standards: modern games ask for 6-8 GB even at 1080p. It suits esports and older titles, but recent releases will force you to lower textures and resolution.

Technologies & features

A card from before modern hardware upscaling technologies, though it can use FSR (open and GPU-agnostic) in games that implement it to recover performance.

Frequently asked questions

Is the AMD R9 290 good for gaming in 2026?

For competitive games and older titles, yes. For modern AAA games, the AMD R9 290 (index 21/100) requires lowering graphics quality or resolution to keep playable frame rates.

How much VRAM does the AMD R9 290 have and is it enough?

It has 4 GB of VRAM. Tight for modern AAA games, which already ask for 6-8 GB even at 1080p; no problem for esports and older titles.

What power supply do I need for the AMD R9 290?

Being a card with contained power draw, a quality 450-550 W power supply covers the whole system without issues.

Is the AMD R9 290 worth it versus newer alternatives?

Launched in 2013, it only makes sense at a clearly lower price than current cards of similar performance, which add more modern upscaling technologies, lower power draw and full warranty. On the second-hand market it can be a reasonable option if the price is right.