R9 290 vs 970/980

[FlyingHelmet]

So I have one of the release 290s with the stock cooler which I was hopeing to put in crossfire but I cant put any aftermarket cooler on it because of my case. So I'm wondering if it's worth upgrading to a 970 or 980, or should I wait for cards like the 390(X)?
Thanks

 

[Thaisnang]

Are you lagging in games?

 

[VincentP]

If you already own an R9 290, it is not worth upgrading to a GTX 980 or R9 390, if that is what they call it.
Single generation upgrades are not worthwhile unless also jumping to a higher tiered card and you are already close to the top.
Tom's Hardware rule of thumb is at least three tiers on the graphics hierarchy:
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/gaming-graphics-card-review,3107-7.html
GTX 980 should slot in there with the GTX 780 Ti and Titan Black, one tier above the R9 290.

 

[ohim]

Just wait if your card runs ok.

 

[i7Baby]

What case is stopping you?

Try what Tom's did - http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/r9-290-accelero-xtreme-290,3671.html - fit a new cooler

eg http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835186097 $90