Summary: In this article, we explore the latest benchmarks of Intel Arc B-Series graphics cards on Linux, specifically focusing on the B580 and B570 models. With improvements in the Intel open-source graphics driver stack, we examine how performance has evolved since their launch on platforms like Ubuntu 25.04. This comprehensive guide will enhance your understanding of the Intel Battlemage’s capabilities for gaming on Linux.
Introduction to Intel Arc B-Series Graphics on Linux
Recent inquiries from Phoronix readers have highlighted the desire for updated Linux graphics and gaming benchmarks specifically for the Intel Arc B-Series “Battlemage” graphics cards. In this article, we provide an in-depth analysis of the Arc Graphics B580 and B570 on Ubuntu 25.04, showcasing the performance improvements facilitated by the open-source Intel Linux graphics driver stack since their initial release.
Performance Optimizations and Features
Since the launch of the Intel Arc B580 in December and the B570 in January, remarkable advancements have been made in the Intel Battlemage Linux graphics driver support. Numerous performance optimizations and new features have been documented through various Phoronix articles over the past months, significantly enhancing the overall user experience on Linux systems.
Out-of-the-Box Experience with Modern Linux Distributions
With the arrival of significant Linux distributions such as Ubuntu 25.04 and Fedora Workstation 42, users can enjoy a seamless out-of-the-box experience with Intel Arc B-Series graphics cards. This setup now requires no additional updates for the Linux kernel, firmware, or Mesa components, making the installation and experience straightforward and user-friendly.
Benchmarking: Comparing Performance Over Time
Today’s benchmarks include a comparison of the original launch metrics for the Arc B570/B580 against the performance metrics recorded in May 2025. Additionally, the Intel Arc A770 was re-tested to highlight advancements in driver support during the same period. This comparative analysis showcases both Battlemage-specific optimizations and broader Intel graphics driver enhancements, alongside general system performance improvements resulting from subsequent updates.
The testing conducted at the end of 2024 utilized Ubuntu 24.10 alongside Linux 6.13 Git and Mesa 25.0-devel Git for the essential Battlemage support. For this recent evaluation in May 2025, the benchmarks were conducted using Ubuntu 25.04 with the Linux 6.14 kernel and Mesa 25.2-devel Git to support Intel Iris Gallium3D (OpenGL) and Intel ANV Vulkan driver specifications. For reproducibility, the Mesa 25.2-devel Git state was sourced directly from the ubuntu/mesaaco PPA.
Consistent Hardware Across Tests
The testing environment remained consistent throughout all evaluations, utilizing the same Intel Core Ultra 9 285K Arrow Lake system hardware. This approach ensures that the comparisons between the launch testing and recent assessments for the Arc A770, B570, and B580 graphics cards accurately reflect the advancements made in driver support and overall performance.
Conclusion
As the Intel Arc B-Series graphics cards continue to mature in terms of driver support and performance on Linux, users can look forward to an enhanced gaming experience. The developments in the open-source driver stack signify a promising future for graphics performance on Linux platforms.
FAQs
1. What are the Intel Arc B-Series graphics cards?
The Intel Arc B-Series graphics cards are part of Intel’s line of dedicated GPUs aimed at enhancing gaming and graphics performance on various platforms, including Linux.
2. How do Linux graphics drivers affect gaming performance?
Linux graphics drivers are crucial for optimizing hardware compatibility and performance, often determining frame rates and overall gaming experience. Improved drivers lead to better performance and stability in games.
3. What Linux distributions support Intel Arc graphics cards?
Modern distributions like Ubuntu 25.04 and Fedora Workstation 42 offer out-of-the-box support for Intel Arc graphics cards, making them accessible for gamers and power users alike.