NeverBackDown
AMD Enthusiast
I actually welcome the Reference cards as it will be easier to get waterblocks for them over AIB![]()
Doesn't really matter. I don't expect any custom PCB cards. Probably not worth it to them. It'll increase cost and take away one of the major reasons to get a 480. I'm sure we might get reference PCB cards that have better components but nothing custom beyond that
Historically Nvidia have got reference coolers on point (although I'd certainly say they've never been amazing). AMD on the other hand...
Personally I think this is a bit daft of an idea, most people don't buy reference cards unless they like the looks or need the blower type cooler. That said they will probably run cooler in Crossfire than your average non blower cooler. I'd not buy a blower card if I'm only running one/using it in a case with decent airflow.
That said, if it is indeed true that the cooler is good, the non ref cards could be excellent toys. I'm building my old ITX rig into a cheap gaming PC for my younger brother and this card was what I had in mind. My 780Ti has lost performance over time rather suspiciously and I'd rather have the same performance from a card that isn't as much of a housefire.
In short, dumb idea but hopefully it doesn't cause as much of a nightmare as the 290X.
Seriously?
I don't really care what cooler it has tbh. I'm getting the 480 so long as it reviews well. I'm GPUless atm. Only thing I want to know is if AIBs improve OC potential. If not then reference it is for me, I won't wait for AIBs if I don't need to.
290X cards were amazing. Just not the reference...
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