New test results with Gigabyte R9 290X Windforce 3X

That test results become outdated over time is not something new. Updated drivers and new versions of firmware to hardware often mean changes, although in many cases there are minor differences.

Sometimes, however, there are bigger problems than usual, partly due to defective test specimens. The latter is what applies to the Gigabyte Radeon R9 290X Windforce 3X, which initially failed to impress the editors.

According to information, something went wrong in the production of the first copies earmarked for media, which means poor contact between the radiator and the graphics processor. Unfortunately, the information about this never reached SweClocker’s editorial office, probably due to holidays around the Chinese New Year.

With a new graphics card from the same generation as the store copies, the differences are clear. In performance mode, the model is not only cooler, but also slightly quieter compared to before.

The improved heat dissipation also affects the clock frequency in the silent mode. From the previous level well below the gigahertz line, the graphics card now holds the flag much closer to the top, which of course means better performance.

All tests have been run and the results have been updated as needed. Note that this only means performance ceiling differences in the silent mode, where the heat development previously held back the clock frequency.

With the new numbers in the back, the editors choose to give the Gigabyte Radeon R9 290X Windforce 3X OC the award “Good product”. The model is a solid upgrade from the reference design that only costs a few hundred bucks extra.

► The review of the R9 290X with Asus DirectCU II and Gigabyte Windforce 3X