News

Sapphire RX 480 NITRO Pictured in Detail

Before the RX 480 reference model even launched, we were already getting some leaks of customer AIB partner models. One of those was from AMD-exclusive Sapphire who is planning a NITRO variant. To build on previous leaks, we’re now getting more detailed pictures for the card.

One major change you’ll instantly notice is the change in shroud color from silver to black. This eliminates the resemblance to a cheese grater earlier leaked units had. We’re also seeing a very nice backplate which covers the entire backside expect for right behind the GPU. The card also features a DVI port which is nice for those that still need it. There is also a button to control the LEDs to switch them between several modes.

Unfortunately for Sapphire fans, there won’t be a Vapour-X model of the RX 480. That’s because the RX 480 doesn’t require the extra cooling from the vapor chamber nor can the budget card handle the added expense. The NITRO will have to make do with 3 copper heat pipes. There remains the possibility of a Toxic variant but no guarantees. Even with only 3 heat pipes, the card will likely clock between 1325 Mhz to 1350 Mhz for a nice factory OC.

Speaking of fans, the NITRO will feature completely removable fans. While they serve a secondary purpose to make cleaning easier, the main purpose is to cut down on RMAs. Instead of having to pay to send a card both ways and be without a GPU, Sapphire will simply ship the user a replacement fan if a fan dies. It will be up to the user to install/uninstall the fan. Hopefully, there remains the option to send in the whole card for those that choose so. More details will be revealed in the coming days.

Samuel Wan

Samuel joined eTeknix in 2015 after becoming engrossed in technology and PC hardware. With his passion for gaming and hardware, tech writing was the logical step to share the latest news with the world. When he’s not busy dreaming about the latest hardware, he enjoys gaming, music, camping and reading.

Disqus Comments Loading...

Recent Posts

Still Wakes the Deep 

LIVE THE HORROR: An immersive disaster story aboard a stunningly realised North Sea oil rig,…

14 mins ago

PHILIPS 275V8LA – 27 Inch QHD Monitor

The Philips VA LED display uses an advanced multi-domain vertical alignment technology that gives you…

15 mins ago

EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro 75% Gasket-mounted Mechanical Keyboard 

【TFT Screen: The Interactive Interface】This 75% mechanical keyboard comes equipped with a TFT Screen, serving…

16 mins ago

Funko Fusion

FANDOM FUSION Play as your favorite characters and wield their unique weapons and skills. Team…

17 mins ago

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance Standard Edition

The Definitive Version of Shin Megami Tensei V - Fully evolved with stunning visuals for…

18 mins ago

Hand Warmers Rechargeable 2 Pack

【Unique Split Design】5200mAh hand warmers rechargeable together with double-sided heating function, split snap swivel design,…

20 mins ago