PowerColor Red Dragon AMD Radeon™ RX 550 2GB GDDR5 Low Profile – The Perfect Upgrade for Compact Systems
In the modern era of computing, bigger isn’t always better. Many users today prefer the sleek aesthetics and space-saving benefits of Small Form Factor (SFF) desktops and Home Theater PCs (HTPCs). However, finding a graphics card that fits into these slim cases without compromising on essential performance can be a challenge. Enter the PowerColor Red Dragon Radeon™ RX 550 2GB GDDR5 Low Profile Graphics Card (Model: AXRX 550 2GBD5-HLE).
Engineered specifically for compact builds, this graphics card bridges the gap between integrated graphics and high-end dedicated GPUs. It provides the perfect balance of power, efficiency, and size, making it the ideal choice for upgrading slim workstations, media centers, or entry-level gaming rigs. Whether you are editing photos, watching 4K movies, or playing popular esports titles, the Red Dragon RX 550 delivers a smooth, high-quality visual experience.
Key Features & Benefits
1. Compact Low Profile Design The defining feature of this card is its low-profile form factor. Measuring just 181mm x 79mm x 20mm, it is designed to fit seamlessly into slim towers and SFF cases where standard-sized cards simply cannot go. This makes it an excellent solution for upgrading office PCs (like Dell OptiPlex or HP EliteDesk SFF models) into capable multimedia machines. Despite its small size, it includes a robust single-fan cooling solution that keeps temperatures in check during extended use.
2. Superior Visuals with 4K & HDMI Support Don’t let the size fool you; this card is ready for high-definition entertainment. The integrated HDMI port supports resolutions up to 4096 x 2160, allowing you to connect to modern 4K TVs and monitors for crystal-clear video playback. Whether you are streaming the latest movies or viewing high-resolution photos, the clarity and color depth will transform your viewing experience. It also features AMD HD3D Technology, supporting the latest stereoscopic 3D content for compatible displays.
3. Enhanced Performance with GCN Architecture At the heart of the RX 550 lies AMD’s advanced Graphics Core Next (GCN) architecture. This fourth-generation design optimizes performance and power efficiency. With 512 Stream Processors and a boost clock of up to 1071 MHz, it handles graphics-intensive applications with ease. The 2GB of GDDR5 memory running at 1500MHz (6.0Gbps) ensures that textures load quickly and applications run smoothly, providing a significant leap over integrated graphics solutions.
4. DirectX® 12 & Vulkan™ Support Future-proof your system with support for modern APIs like DirectX® 12 and Vulkan™. These technologies allow the graphics card to communicate more efficiently with your processor, reducing bottlenecks and delivering higher frame rates in supported games. This means you can enjoy popular titles like League of Legends, CS:GO, Dota 2, and Overwatch with improved responsiveness and visual fidelity.
5. Multi-Monitor Productivity with AMD Eyefinity Boost your productivity by expanding your workspace. With AMD Eyefinity Technology, you can drive multiple displays simultaneously using the DL DVI-D and HDMI ports. This is perfect for professionals who need to multitask—keep your email open on one screen while working on a presentation or spreadsheet on the other. A wider field of view is also a game-changer for immersive gaming.
6. AMD App Acceleration The RX 550 isn’t just for gaming. AMD App Acceleration leverages the GPU’s compute power to speed up everyday applications. It creates a “co-processing” environment where the GPU assists the CPU, resulting in faster video rendering, quicker web browsing, and smoother performance in office applications like Microsoft PowerPoint and Excel.
Technical Specifications
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Graphics Engine: AMD Radeon™ RX 550
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Video Memory: 2GB GDDR5
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Stream Processors: 512 Units
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Engine Clock: Up to 1071MHz (Boost)
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Memory Clock: 1500MHz x4 (6.0Gbps)
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Memory Interface: 64-bit
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Bus Standard: PCIE 3.0 x8
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Display Connectors: 1x DL DVI-D, 1x HDMI
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Max Resolution: DVI (2560×1600), HDMI (4096×2160)
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Dimensions: 181mm x 79mm x 20mm
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Minimum Power Requirement: 250W (300W recommended)
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DirectX Support: Version 12
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OpenGL Support: Yes
Why Choose the PowerColor Red Dragon RX 550?
A Silence-Optimized Experience PowerColor has tuned the fan profile to ensure quiet operation. Whether you are working late at night or watching a movie, the fan noise remains unobtrusive. The efficient thermal design ensures the card stays cool without sounding like a jet engine, preserving the quiet ambiance of your living room or office.
No External Power Connector Needed Installation is hassle-free. The RX 550 draws all the power it needs directly from the PCIe slot on your motherboard. There is no need for bulky 6-pin or 8-pin power cables, making cable management easier and ensuring compatibility with older power supplies that may lack extra connectors. A simple 250W power supply is all that is required, though 300W is suggested for optimal headroom.
Perfect for Home Theaters HTPC enthusiasts will appreciate the AMD HD Media Accelerator, which uses dedicated hardware post-processing algorithms to improve video playback quality. Enjoy sharper images, vibrant colors, and smooth motion whether you are watching Blu-rays or streaming content from YouTube and Netflix.
Advanced Technologies
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Radeon™ Chill: A power-saving feature that dynamically regulates framerate based on your in-game movements. It saves power and lowers temperatures during low-activity scenes.
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Radeon™ ReLive: Capture, stream, and share your greatest gaming moments and victories with ease. (Note: Check driver availability for specific feature support).
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UEFI Support: Ensures faster boot times, resuming from hibernation, and enhanced security against bootkit attacks by protecting the pre-startup process.
Conclusion
The PowerColor Red Dragon Radeon™ RX 550 2GB GDDR5 Low Profile is more than just a graphics card; it’s a versatile tool that revitalizes older systems and empowers compact builds. It offers a cost-effective way to gain 4K capability, multi-monitor support, and reliable gaming performance without the need for a massive power supply or a large PC case.
Whether you are building a discrete media server, upgrading a corporate workstation, or setting up a beginner’s gaming PC, this card delivers the reliability and performance PowerColor is known for. Order yours today at AvikaRetails.com and experience the power of the Red Dragon!
