I'm planning to buy a 9070 XT and was initially leaning towards the XFX Swift, which is currently priced around $680 to $730 on sites like NewEgg and Amazon. However, I've noticed that the XFX Mercury is on sale for $730 (normally around $800) if I order from Amazon through Fennec Inc. My main question is whether it's worth the additional $60 to get the Mercury over the Swift. I've seen some reviews pointing out that the Swift has higher VRM temperatures compared to other models, and I'm not sure if that's a significant concern or if I'm just worrying too much. By the way, I'm looking at the Mercury OC version since I'm intending to use the PC for 1440p gaming.
2 Answers
Both the XFX Mercury and the Sapphire Nitro+ are known for their good overclocking capabilities, and the Mercury tends to run cooler than some other models. The differences in performance between these cards are usually only about 5%, which is negligible for most games. If you're really concerned about VRM temps on the Swift, it might be worth investing in the Mercury for better cooling.
Just keep in mind that the Nitro+ has that 12-pin connector issue, so it might not be the best choice if you’re worried about potential melting.
Make sure you're comparing the right versions—there are big differences between the regular Mercury and the OC version. If you're talking about the OC, then sure, it's more suited for gaming at 1440p and probably gives you that extra oomph you’re looking for. Just ensure you're getting the right model!
Yeah, the OC version provides better performance, so if that's what you're after, definitely consider it. Just be sure it fits your power supply setup.
I agree, running cooler can help in the long run. Plus, aesthetics matter too! If you like the look of the Mercury better, that can be a bonus.