It seriously is disappointing that we’re getting to review the same old products again, only with different names. We’ve probably hit that point in time where both GPU makers want to focus on other things or just take it slow. Regardless, if it results in better products in the future then its definitely alright… I repeat, only alright if they maker BETTER products. For now, its like we’re being given the same pair of boots but with different shoelaces. And those shoelaces cost you extra. Anyways, let’s break down our scores.
- Performance. Its like the GTX680 vs. HD7970 all over again with our GTX770 and R9 280X reviews and as before, the results are neck to neck. AMD optimized games will benefit well from improved driver support NVIDIA’s raw power just gives it a run for its money. In the case of the ASUS Radeon R9 280X DirectCUII TOP, the card manages to gain some great scores but finds itself playing 2nd best to the GTX770.
- Build Quality. As we’ve mentioned before, ASUS has an eye for detail and their products show that. They may occasionally screw-up on their boards but their GPUs are always pretty much spot-on. The ASUS Radeon R9 280X DirectCUII TOP is another example of how good ASUS is at designing GPUs.
- Functionality. The R9 280X is well-suited for many of today’s games and if you find yourself shying away from the Hawaii R9 290/X then a pair of R9 280X might just be your thing. By itself, it will crunch any game at 1080p and will happily cruise at higher resolutions.ÂÂ
- Bundle. Standard fare here. Nothing special.
- Value. Coming in at ₱17,900, it surely is a bit steep considering how much the HD7970 has dropped in prices in the last few months. This makes this product a tough call.
Wrapping things up, we have a tried and tested product in ASUS’ Radeon R9 280X DirectCUII TOP but as it stands, ASUS is asking way too much for this card. The ASUS Radeon R9 280X DirectCUII TOP delivers as an HD7970 Ghz should but with the price going head to head against rivalling GTX770’s you’re better off would the NVIDIA variant. We recommend going for lower-priced options at this point in time until ASUS settles its pricing to a much competitive level. If it featured the Matrix Platinum heatsink, its a different story though.
ASUS backs the ASUS Radeon R9 280X DirectCUII TOP with a 3-year warranty.
