Whats the difference between reference and non reference cards (5850)

[paradigmGT]

I have a few options at buying a used HD 5850 1gb ddr5 card for $50.

One seller has a reference Sapphire HD 5850 as well as a reference Asus HD 5850 for $50 each.

Another seller has a PowerColor HD5850 also for $50.

Which card would be the better one to go with? What is the difference between reference and non reference?

 

[Norlag]

A reference card has the gpu manufacturer's cooler and a stock clock. If the powercolor card is not reference, it will likely be cooler, but this may not be so. I have never had a powercolor card, but I know that sapphire generally makes quality parts.