New PC Mini ITX Build : Not sure if I should go with a ASUS GTX970 Turbo reference model or the STRIX non-reference model.

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  klaw81 on 07/07/2016 - 11:29

  +1

  The Prodigy isn't really a very small case - it's surprisingly large for Mini ITX. You won't need to make any real concessions for cooling in a case that big - you can use whatever will fit. Go for the Strix, which will be quieter and has slightly better performance.

  If you were doing this build in a tiny case like the Sugo SG13, which is about a quarter of the size, you'd have cause for concern and a blower-style card would definitely be a wise move.

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    Elite on 07/07/2016 - 12:13

    Thanks heaps klaw81 :)

    One more question I currently have the ASUS TURBO-GTX970-OC-4GD5 in my hands & have asked if I can swap it over & pay a little extra for the ASUS STRIX GeForce GTX 970 Overclocked 4 GB DDR5. Do I go ahead and build with the TURBO or wait to swap it for the STRIX ?

    I'm tempted just to leave it as is but if the STRIX is really that much better I can wait ;) I've been waiting for so long anyways ;)

    Thanks again & Cheers ;D

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      klaw81 on 07/07/2016 - 12:28

      If you install it, they probably won't give you a direct exchange because it's "used" and there's a risk you have damaged it. So you should choose now, or you may regret it.

      They're both factory-overclocked cards, so the performance difference is very small - maybe 1 or 2 frames per second in a typical AAA game at 1440p. So I doubt this will sway you either way.

      In terms of sound output, the Strix has the advantage of silent cooling under light loads - the fans don't start up unless the GPU goes over 67 degrees. Also, it's one of the quietest high performance GPUs available. I believe the ASUS has a constant fan noise, and it's almost certainly louder as well. But you won't care if you're always using headphones.

      Up to you - it's a tough call.

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        Elite on 07/07/2016 - 12:38

        It is a tough call. Really want it to last & looking at the customer & professional reviews for both I am swayed more towards the STRIX so I think I'm going to have to do the swap & wait ;)

        Thanks again mate :)