Looking to get a new GPU

scottyseng · June 29, 2016

I'm thinking about upgrading my current GPU, a FirePro V7900 (Performs something like a Radeon 5850) because it runs really hot (Idles at 56C / under load, gets to 80C+..yes, I've cleaned it, even changed the thermal paste and thermal pads) and the fan noise is driving me nuts.

I mostly do content creation so I don't game at all. The GPU is probably idling most of the time since I'm usually coding or watching anime. I usually use Revit, 3DS Max, Maya, Unity, Photoshop, and Premiere Pro.

The reason I got the FirePro to begin with is because I used to use a Radeon HD4850 and I think in Revit 2008 I ran into bizarre graphical issues (Walls going through roofs when they weren't, etc). I did get another FirePro V7900 and had them in Crossfire but noticed no or very little difference in actual performance gain with Crossfire Pro enabled. So I moved the second V7900 to my server so it could have a GPU. I don't know the driver situation with current gaming GPUs and professional applications, but I hear they're good now.

I'm thinking of either getting the newer version of the FirePro V7900, which would be the W7100 ($660 new..or find one used), or a mid range gaming GPU if drivers are a lot better now (Something like a AMD 480, 390, or a 970...something below $300).

I don't need much GPU power, as I actually am okay with the single FirePro V7900, but if I can get more performance while having lower temps, that would be nice.

Budget is $700 if a Firepro, but $300 for a gaming GPU (I don't need anything as powerful as a 1070...it'd just be wasting power in my case)

Ah, I have a 1440p monitor connected with DisplayPort.

The Salt Is REAL · June 30, 2016

I'm assuming this is in US dollars, the Quadro M2000 is decent and could do some basic rendering. If you can go over your budget the Quadro M4000 offers solid performance.

scottyseng · June 30, 2016

9 minutes ago, Riki the Legendary Heropon said:

I'm assuming this is in US dollars, the Quadro M2000 is decent and could do some basic rendering. If you can go over your budget the Quadro M4000 offers solid performance.

Yeah, in USD, sorry I forgot to mention that. Hmm, I might try to see if I can get the M4000 (Or hunt for a used one). I had no idea there was a Mxxxx series for Quadros (I'm used to seeing the Kxxxx series)