Question At What Size/Weight does Video Card Sag?

[test_123]

I need to upgrade my video card. I'm considering a 7900xt or 4070Ti. The problem is my case setup prevents me from using a support beam. I'm not concerned of about sag in terms of cosmetics. I'm a little concerned about damage or anything that would interfere with the functionality of the video card. What should I look for when searching for card without sag? The smallest cards are 2.5 slots. Does the 7900xt sag? Is there a weight threshold that I should look for? Thank you.

 

[drea.drechsler]

I don't know that there are any defined parameters since even a short card can start to sag if really heavy...or a lighter card that's really long. You really have to install it in your system to see if it's going to be prone to sagging. But i'd expect any of the current models of latest cards will be.

Once installed, if you see it's hanging really heavy then get a GPU support brace to help support it. They come in a variety of types and styles, some even come with additional RGB lighting. The simpler ones are cheaper and small enough to blend in and become almost invisible. I use one like a threaded jack stand for my RX 6800 XT so it can be adjusted to fit perfectly with my MATX case. Other people have used carefully chosen anime figurines to do double-duty as GPU support and case decoration.

But in any case and with any type of bracing take the card completely out if you're going to move the system very far.

 

[DRagor]

It all really depends on how the card is built. JayzTwoCents discussed the topic in one of his videos - properly built card will not sag no mater how heavy it is.

 

[drea.drechsler]

It all really depends on how the card is built. JayzTwoCents discussed the topic in one of his videos - properly built card will not sag no mater how heavy it is.
...

Hah..yeah, my 6800 XT (MSI Gaming Z Trio) is a lot longer than what he's using and has the built-in bracing like he's showing. That alone, though, doesn't do enough but it also includes an additional cantilevered brace that attaches to more of the I/O cover screws, also like he shows. It would support along 1/2-2/3 the length of the card and looks like it might work - but it won't fit in an MATX case with no room below the GPU with a modern 2.5 or 3 wide cards.

So point is, some cards may include some means of bracing them that may not work for you.

 

[test_123]

It all really depends on how the card is built. JayzTwoCents discussed the topic in one of his videos - properly built card will not sag no mater how heavy it is.

Great video! Thank you.