Unboxing and Review: Sapphire Nitro+ 7800 XT

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Specifications of the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT
3. Design and Build Quality
4. Performance Benchmarks
   1. Borderlands 3
   2. The Callisto Protocol
   3. Cyberpunk 2077
   4. Shadow of the Tomb Raider
   5. Fire Strike
5. Temperature and Noise Levels
6. Trix Boost Technology
7. Verdict on the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT
8. Compatibility with Linux
9. Conclusion

Article

Introduction

In this article, we will be taking an in-depth look at the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT, which is considered one of the most exciting GPU launches in recent times. This graphics card belongs to the rdna3 family and offers an impressive 16 gigabytes of VRAM. The Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT aims to provide a long-lasting and affordable solution for gamers, with a focus on delivering excellent performance per dollar.

Specifications of the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT

Before diving into the details, let's take a closer look at the specifications of this powerful graphics card. The Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT features a three-slot design and comes with a massive 16 gigabytes of VRAM. It offers a great balance between power and affordability, making it suitable for a wide range of gamers. Additionally, the card includes features such as a metal backplate, an RGB out header, and a fan in header for enhanced cooling.

Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT are impressive, reflecting its position as a top-tier card. With its three-slot bracket, it may require special consideration when fitting it into certain cases. However, Sapphire has made accommodations by recessing the power connector, allowing for a more flexible fit. The card also includes a metal backplate and an anti-sag support bracket, ensuring stability and durability.

Performance Benchmarks

Now let's move on to the performance benchmarks of the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT. We will be testing its capabilities in some popular games to assess its performance at different resolutions.

Borderlands 3

At 4K resolution, the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT demonstrates a slight lead over the reference edition, with higher average frame rates and impressive one percent lows. However, at 1080P resolution, there seems to be a system-specific issue causing lower one percent lows. This anomaly was not observed in other games and is likely unrelated to the hardware.

The Callisto Protocol

In The Callisto Protocol, the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT performs remarkably well, achieving over 100 FPS at 4K resolution and 221 FPS at 1080P. The one percent lows remain consistent and satisfactory, making this card an excellent choice for gaming at these resolutions.

Cyberpunk 2077

In Cyberpunk 2077, the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT delivers a respectable 84 FPS at 4K resolution, showcasing a performance boost compared to the reference editions. This improvement can be attributed to the increased clock speed of the Nitro+ version. With the option for overclocking, even higher performance can be achieved.

Shadow of the Tomb Raider

Shadow of the Tomb Raider showcases a similar trend, with the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT performing closely to the reference edition at 4K resolution. However, at 1080P resolution, there is a notable uplift in performance outside the margin of error. These improvements can be attributed to the enhancements made by Sapphire to optimize their card's performance.

Fire Strike

The differences in performance become more apparent when running the Fire Strike benchmark. The Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT achieves an overall score of 49,000, surpassing the reference edition by a notable margin. These improvements further validate Sapphire's efforts in optimizing their card for superior performance.

Temperature and Noise Levels

The Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT boasts significant improvements in temperature management compared to the reference version. On average, it offers a 15-degree Celsius improvement, providing a cooler gaming experience. The fan noise levels are also impressively low, making it quieter and less noticeable during gameplay.

Trix Boost Technology

Sapphire introduces a unique software feature called Trix Boost, which allows users to render a portion of the game at a lower resolution for enhanced performance. Although not a traditional resolution scaling method, Trix Boost offers benefits in specific games, although side effects may occur. This technology demonstrates Sapphire's commitment to providing additional value and flexibility to their users.

Verdict on the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT

Overall, the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT proves to be a well-designed and highly capable graphics card. It offers a superior cooling solution and an impressive overclock out of the box. With its performance at higher resolutions, it is an excellent choice for gamers looking to experience smooth gameplay at 4K resolution or above. Additionally, the card carries a reasonable price tag, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious enthusiasts.

Compatibility with Linux

Sapphire has always been known for its solid hardware engineering, which also extends to their compatibility with Linux. The Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT is no exception, making it an excellent choice for Linux workstations. The superb cooling capabilities ensure that the GPU remains cool during extended gaming Sessions, giving Linux users a reliable and high-performing graphics card option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT is an impressive offering in the GPU market. With its powerful performance, superior build quality, and thoughtful design choices, it stands out as a reliable and future-proof choice for gamers. The card's affordable price point further enhances its appeal, making it an excellent option for both enthusiasts and budget-oriented individuals. Whether it's for gaming or professional use, the Sapphire Nitro+ RX 7800 XT proves to be a worthy investment that delivers high-quality performance for years to come.