Reference R9 290 for ethereum, avoid at all costs?

[YIz]

I'm seen some really cheap 290s around, but they're all reference models. about 150 bucks per card.

Should I avoid the reference cooler at all costs? I've heard it's really bad, noisy and doesn't cool well. on the other hand, I'm willing to undervolt for anything that would give me more than 25Mh.

What do you think?

[1715192559]

1715192559

[1715192559]

1715192559

[1715192559]

1715192559

[1715192559]

1715192559

[Tmdz]

I love my 290's, they are built like tanks and run stable.  Small oc and you can get 29 mh easy

They are not that power efficient and are a bit loud but I have mine in the shop.  If you have cheap power costs then they can be a good option, with a undervolt they consume about 220 watts at the wall.  Reapply the crusty thermal grease and use a custom fan profile and they will run at decent temps.

[YIz]

I love my 290's, they are built like tanks and run stable.  Small oc and you can get 29 mh easy

They are not that power efficient and are a bit loud but I have mine in the shop.  If you have cheap power costs then they can be a good option, with a undervolt they consume about 220 watts at the wall.  Reapply the crusty thermal grease and use a custom fan profile and they will run at decent temps.

Thanks for your reply. I am currently using a few Hawaiis, but they are all aftermarket cooled. do you own reference cards?

[Tmdz]

All reference 290 refurb units I got at newegg a few months back when they had the sale.

[YIz]

All reference 290 refurb units I got at newegg a few months back when they had the sale.

Alright thanks, I'll get a card or two then. turns out they're not bad like their reputation.

[EnacDomains]

These cards are the best

[adaseb]

They are the best cards unless you got a wife who doesn't like noise.

[Mzie]

They are good cards but noisy and power hungry , if you don't mind all that