What graphics card to choose?

[Alec Laflamme]

Hey, i currently have two options available. i Either get a zotac gtx 780 amp edition for 300$, or an XFX R9290AENFC Radeon R9 290 for 250$. I came across something interesting, and noticed that this R9 can be unlocked to a 290x. Is the 780 still worth the extra 50$? and will it perform the same as the R9 290?

 

[TNT27]

r9 290 will be better, you can grab them about 230-250$ right now. However if you are looking at 300$ you can get a gtx 970 just a little bit more than that.

 

[Alec Laflamme]

Does anyone know anything about this model specifically, i think it might be a reference design and I've heard some mixed reviews.

 

[madmatt30]

Yep mate ,looks like a single fan ref type model.
I'd be dubious on that unless you have very very good case cooling.
They ref type designs can hit 95c or so - a good price though.

 

[bignastyid]

That model of 290 uses the reference cooler and should be avoided unless you plan on replacing it with a full coverage water block, or an after market cooler. Either of which will cost more than the $50 price difference. If those 2 cards where my only 2 options i'd get the 780. Performance wise the cards are close, but the 780 uses less power and runs cooler.

 

[TNT27]

Oh, I did not know you were talking about stock reference cooling on the 290. Yeah get the 780, or a 970 then. r9 290 is a beast of a card, but you have to get it with an aftermarket cooler from gigabyte, msi, sapphire, etc. Or it will run very hot, and will have no room to OC.