Which 7970 to get?

[mfj1985]

As it stands now sapphire OC for the 7950 seems a pretty obvious choice given the reviews, I'm not sure about the 7970s though. Anyone can recommend one which runs cool and quiet, but doesn't cost a ton extra?

With the relative small price difference between the 7970 and 7950, I'm really leaning towards the 7970. Yes a 7950 can OC above 7970 stock, but if u oc the 7970 as well, it will still be about 15-20% ahead.

So any suggestions? :d

 

[Surveyor]

Aren't all the current HD 7970's at OcUK reference designs, with reference coolers, apart from the XFX ATI Radeon HD 7970 "Double DD Black Edition" or the one with a water block?

Presumably they all run at the same temperatures and with the same amount of noise.

 

[zoomee]

yes, only difference is warranty - some have only 2 years where others have 3

 

[Surveyor]

yes, only difference is warranty - some have only 2 years where others have 3

And the Asus one has a modified BIOS, but that's also got nothing to do with the OP's question

 

[mfj1985]

Alright, guess not too many custom cards out yet, any idea if there are some decent ones inc ? like the oc sapphire for the 7950, else I'll just go with reference I guess, just heard they are quite loud?

 

[thezakarum]

Does anyone know of any that come with a matt black pcb?

 

[zoomee]

Idling they make no noise at all mate. Under load there is a bit of noise but bearable. Start overclocking and thats when it gets noisy.

Warranty was the only differentiating factor I looked at when purchasing mine (along with price of course lol!) - So I went for the Sapphire. If your intending on overclocking obviously the Asus is the one to go for but probably at a price premium.

 

[Nightglow]

If your not in a hurry, then wait a few weeks, which is what I'm going to do, & see what other 7970, 7950 cards appear.