How can I verify a used RX 6800 XT before paying?

If you can test it before paying, connect it to a working PC and run GPU-Z to confirm the model, VRAM amount, memory type, BIOS information, and other specifications. Then run a demanding game or benchmark for around 10–15 minutes. Watch the temperature, fan behavior, clock speeds, power draw, and whether the display shows artifacts, crashes, or driver errors.

During the test, verify that the card is actually using the expected amount of VRAM and performing roughly like a normal RX 6800 XT. Use GPU-Z and a benchmark, then monitor it with HWiNFO. A card that displays an image but reports strange specifications, has missing memory, severe thermal problems, unstable clocks, or visible artifacts should be rejected.

A genuine card should at least produce a display and identify correctly in the operating system. A benchmark such as 3DMark or a demanding game can reveal instability, but a courier may not have the equipment or time to perform a thorough test. Ideally, buy locally and test it in your own system, or use a seller with a strong return or buyer-protection policy.

Fake graphics cards exist, but they are much more commonly made by disguising low-end cards as older popular models. At €185, the bigger concern is usually a faulty, heavily used, repaired, or mining card rather than a completely fake RX 6800 XT. Check the cooler, screws, connectors, fans, and PCB for unusual damage or signs of tampering, and be suspicious if the seller refuses a proper test.