Best GTX 970 for Watercooling and Overclocking

[t24revl]

Hey all, thanks in advance for responding to my thread.

 

I plan to upgrade my gpu this holiday season, and am torn from the Asus Strix GTX 970 DC2OC-4GD5 and the MSI GTX 970 Gaming 4G gpus. I plan to overclock these cards and watercool them down the road. That being said, I know that the msi 970 is better for overclocking because of the additional 6-pin power connecter and that it has a higher factory voltage.

 

So what do you think is better for the higher overclock and to watercool? I would also like to add a second one of these cards in a year or so. Thanks again!

 

 

[olback]

a higher voltage is not always a good thing, keep that in mind

[warmmilk]

I think you answered your own question.  Since MSi overclocks better, as long as someone makes a waterblock for it, thats the card to get.  

 

As far as which is better for watercooling, the only brand that stands out from the rest is EVGA since their warranty specifically states it covers watercooled cards, just put the stock cooler back on when sending it to them.  And from the feedback I've heard about EVGA service, lots of times they'll still cover the damage even if its not their fault.  I've dealt with EVGA service once (card died after a few mins of use, not my fault).  But it was still the best service I've ever received in any field.

 

Whatever card you do go with, test it (including playing a game, not just boot test) on air before putting a waterblock on it.

[t24revl]

I would definitely test the card before hand, and I don't plan to water until the summer of next year. Has anyone dealt with MSI, ASUS, or EVGA's customer service? I heard EVGA's is the best, but what about the others? Thanks for responding so quickly.