Early details about the Sony PS6 are starting to surface, and one of the more interesting claims involves its graphics architecture. According to AMD-focused leaker Kepler_L2 on the NeoGAF forums, Sony’s next console may not adopt the full RDNA 5 GPU design. Instead, it could use a hybrid approach, combining parts of RDNA 5 with elements from earlier RDNA generations. If accurate, that wouldn’t be unusual for Sony.

The original PS5 didn’t use a clean, full RDNA 2 implementation. It was closer to RDNA 1 with custom ray-tracing hardware layered in. Later, the PS5 Pro reportedly integrated newer RDNA 4 features while still maintaining a custom structure. Sony has historically worked closely with AMD to tailor architectures rather than simply adopting them wholesale.

Cost appears to be the main factor

Rumors suggest the PS6 could feature a Zen 6 CPU and around 30GB of memory, possibly GDDR7. That alone would push component costs higher than previous generations, especially if memory pricing remains volatile over the next few years.

A full RDNA 5 GPU, particularly one sized for high-end console performance, would add even more expense. By selectively implementing features instead of using the complete architecture, Sony may be trying to strike a balance between performance gains and retail pricing.

That strategy would align with how Sony has positioned past consoles: strong performance, but still within reach for mainstream buyers.

There are also reports that Microsoft’s next Xbox could move closer to a “PC-like” approach, potentially pushing into higher price territory. If that happens, Sony may choose to differentiate by keeping costs under control rather than chasing absolute top-end specs.

Of course, we’re still years away from launch. The PS6 is widely expected around 2028, and a lot can change between now and then — including GPU roadmaps, fabrication costs, and overall market conditions.

A hybrid RDNA 5 design doesn’t automatically mean weak performance. Custom console GPUs often include targeted optimizations that matter more for real-world gaming workloads than raw architectural purity.

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The post PS6 Reportedly Won’t Use Full RDNA 5 GPU Architecture appeared first on Gizmochina.