Intel Scores GPU Win: Arc B580 Sells Out After Stellar Reviews

A Bright Spot in a Tough Year for Intel

Intel’s 2023 has been challenging, but the launch of the Arc B580 “Battlemage” GPU is proving to be a much-needed success. Priced at $250, this discrete graphics card has received rave reviews, with demand so high that it’s already sold out at many retailers. Intel has confirmed to The Verge that it is working to replenish stock weekly.

“Demand for Arc B580 graphics cards is high, and many retailers have sold through their initial inventory. We expect weekly inventory replenishments of the Intel Arc B580 Limited Edition graphics card and are working with partners to ensure steady availability,” said Intel spokesperson Mark Anthony Ramirez.

Universal Praise for the Arc B580

Tech reviewers have celebrated the B580 as a standout GPU in the budget category. Here’s what they’re saying:

• “The new $249 GPU champion has arrived.”
• “The first worthy budget GPU of the decade.”
• “The fastest mainstream GPU.”
• “A New Mainstream King.”
• “Intel Fixed Its Problems.”

How It Stacks Up

While the B580 doesn’t outperform its competitors—the RTX 4060 and AMD RX 7600—in every game, it holds its own in many areas. It delivers solid average performance, mature drivers, and a competitive price point. Its 12GB of video RAM further adds to its appeal, especially in a market where affordable and effective GPUs have been scarce.

Reviewers like Linus Tech Tips praised the card for being both “great and affordable,” contrasting it with the disappointing launches of its rivals.

Is It a “Paper Launch”?

Concerns about a potential “paper launch,” where manufacturers release only a small batch of products for marketing hype, have been largely dismissed. According to Hardware Unboxed, industry insiders report that the supply of the B580 has been “quite substantial.”

Availability and Competition

Currently, finding the Arc B580 at its $250 MSRP is difficult, with many models sold out or marked up. Here’s what to expect:

• Newegg may restock the $250 “Limited Edition” model in early January.
• A $279 Acer variant could be available on Newegg within days.
• Higher-priced versions, like Gunnir models, are listed for around $400 from Chinese retailers.

Meanwhile, AMD and Nvidia are gearing up for their next wave of GPUs, potentially reigniting competition in the budget segment.

A Promising Future for Intel GPUs

With the Arc B580, Intel has shown it can deliver a competitive and consumer-friendly GPU. While supply constraints and upcoming rival products may impact its long-term success, this launch marks a significant step forward for Intel’s discrete graphics card initiative.