I'm faced with a decision between two graphics cards: my friend is selling a used 3070 that he mined Ethereum with for $250, while Walmart has a new 5070 available for $550. I'm wondering, is that extra $300 worth it for the new card, considering the potential risks and performance differences?
5 Answers
Honestly, I wouldn't go for a mined card. Sure, I’ve bought them before without issues, but recent experiences haven’t been great; they can fail pretty quickly. The 5070 is a solid investment—newer, faster, and comes with a warranty, which gives you peace of mind. I'd spend the extra cash for reliability.
True, mining cards can be okay because they're usually run at lower power, but a 3070 has likely been working hard for a while. I'd be cautious!
It really depends on what games you play. The 5070 is faster and has more capabilities, but the 3070 is still decent for some titles. However, with the 3070 being older and used, I wouldn't risk it; go for the 5070 for peace of mind.
I’ve heard some people say that mined cards can be okay if maintained well, but it’s hard to tell. Just go with the new one for more security.
Exactly, it really boils down to how much you care about performance versus saving a few bucks.
If you're gaming at 1080p or 1440p, the 3070 could still hold up for a bit, but if you're looking for longevity and performance, the 5070 is the way to go. The price difference is worth it for a significant boost in performance.
Definitely go for the 5070! Relying on a card that's been used for mining just isn't a good idea. You’re better off with a brand new card that’s never been pushed to the limits.
For sure, get the 5070. Paying $250 for a 3070 that’s been mined on isn't really saving you much in the long run. New tech comes with new drivers and better performance—all that good stuff. You'll thank yourself later for not cheaping out.
Exactly! Just look at it as investment for the future, especially since the 3070 is pretty outdated.
I’d grab a mined card if it was free, but paying for one? No thanks.