Unveiling the Flaws of XFX RX 5700 XT THICC II: A Critical Tear-Down

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Overview of the RX 5700 XT XFX Version
3. XFX Thick Ultra vs. XFX Thick Ultra-2
4. Sponsorship Message from Gigabyte
5. Unboxing the XFX Thick Ultra
6. The Issue with Warranty Void Stickers
7. Disassembling the Card
8. Analysis of the Cooler Design
9. The Importance of Thermal Pads
10. Examining the VRM Cooling
11. Comparing the Performance of Thick Ultra with Other Cards
12. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will be taking a closer look at the RX 5700 XT XFX version, specifically the Thick Ultra variant. We will analyze the design, performance, and cooling capabilities of this graphics card to determine whether or not it justifies its premium price tag. Additionally, we will explore the issue of warranty void stickers and the impact they have on user experience. Let's dive into the details and find out if the Thick Ultra is worth your investment.

Overview of the RX 5700 XT XFX Version

The RX 5700 XT XFX version, also known as the Thick Ultra, is a popular choice among gamers due to its powerful performance and sleek design. However, it comes in two variants: the Thick Ultra and the Thick Ultra-2. While both versions share the same design, the Thick Ultra-2 offers a slightly higher frequency out-of-the-box. In terms of appearance, the card features a thick shroud, which gives it a bold and striking look. But does this aesthetic appeal Translate to exceptional performance? Let's find out.

XFX Thick Ultra vs. XFX Thick Ultra-2

Before we delve deeper into the Thick Ultra's performance and cooling abilities, it's important to differentiate between the two variants: the Thick Ultra and the Thick Ultra-2. The only significant difference between these two options is the slightly higher frequency of the Thick Ultra-2. This means that, in terms of performance, there is very little separating the two, making the choice between them primarily a matter of personal preference and budget.

Sponsorship Message from Gigabyte

Before we proceed, we would like to take a moment to thank our sponsor, Gigabyte, for their support. The Gigabyte 2x 570 Master Motherboard is a reliable and powerful choice for those using Ryzen 3000 CPUs. With its exceptional heat sink capabilities and overhauled BIOS, the X570 Master ensures efficient and stable performance. To get your hands on the Gigabyte X570 Master, click on the link in the description below.

Unboxing the XFX Thick Ultra

Now, let's move on to the unboxing experience of the XFX Thick Ultra. As we remove the card from its packaging, we can immediately appreciate the unique design and attention to detail. However, we must address a concerning issue with this graphics card – the presence of an unwarranted warranty void sticker.

The Issue with Warranty Void Stickers

XFX has taken the disappointing approach of using warranty void stickers, which can be found on the card. These stickers attempt to restrict users from opening their cards for maintenance or upgrades. Thankfully, XFX has publicly stated that they do not actively enforce these stickers. However, it is important to note that warranty void stickers are not only illegal but also hinder users from properly maintaining their electronics. It is essential for manufacturers to allow users to perform necessary repairs and upgrades without invalidating their warranties.

Disassembling the Card

Despite the warranty void stickers, we proceed to disassemble the XFX Thick Ultra to gain a better understanding of its internal components. As we remove the outer screws and detach the shroud, we encounter the backplate, PCB, and baseplate. This disassembly process reveals both the strengths and weaknesses of the card's design.

Analysis of the Cooler Design

One of the most critical aspects of any graphics card is its cooling system. With the XFX Thick Ultra, the cooler design plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal performance. However, our disassembly shows that the plastic shroud, while visually appealing, feels cheap and lacks functionality. The shroud's thickness adds no real value to the cooling capabilities, as it is thicker than the heatsink itself. This design flaw raises questions about the card's cooling efficiency and overall performance.

The Importance of Thermal Pads

Examining the thermal pads in the XFX Thick Ultra gives us valuable insights into the card's cooling performance. We observe thermal pads connecting a stainless steel plate to the copper nickel-plated heat pipes. While XFX's use of stainless steel is commendable, we cannot overlook the fact that the contact between the plate and heat pipes is not optimal. This imperfect contact can lead to increased GPU temperatures and potentially impact overall performance. A better thermal interface design could have significantly enhanced the thermal performance of the card.

Examining the VRM Cooling

In addition to GPU cooling, effective VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) cooling is vital for maintaining stable and reliable performance. The XFX Thick Ultra employs an aluminum plate for VRM cooling, which is a standard choice. However, the attachment method of the plate to the fin stack impacts its cooling efficiency. The contact between the plate and the bottom of the fins is minimal, resulting in potential thermal limitations for the VRM components. Manufacturers could improve VRM cooling by using larger copper plates or optimizing the attachment method for better heat dissipation.

Comparing the Performance of Thick Ultra with Other Cards

In our review, we compared the performance of the XFX Thick Ultra with other available options on the market. While the Thick Ultra is not objectively bad in terms of thermals, it falls short in performance when compared to cheaper alternatives. The card tends to be louder and less efficient than other cards in its price range. Therefore, we cannot presently recommend buying this card based on its performance and value when compared to the competition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the RX 5700 XT XFX Thick Ultra is an aesthetically appealing graphics card. However, it fails to deliver the performance and cooling capabilities that would justify its premium price tag. Despite its striking design, the Thick Ultra underperforms in comparison to cheaper alternatives. While the warranty void stickers may not be strictly enforced, it is disheartening to see such limitations placed on user maintenance and upgrades. If you are solely looking for a visually impressive card and can overlook its performance shortcomings, the Thick Ultra may be an option. However, for a more well-rounded and cost-effective choice, we recommend considering alternative graphics cards in the same price range.

Highlights:

• The RX 5700 XT XFX Thick Ultra offers an appealing design, but falls short in performance.
• Warranty void stickers restrict user maintenance and upgrades, despite being unenforceable.
• Disassembling the Thick Ultra reveals design flaws in the cooling system.
• Insufficient contact between components affects thermal efficiency.
• Comparison with other cards in the same price range highlights performance limitations.

FAQ

Q: Are warranty void stickers legal? A: Warranty void stickers are considered illegal in many countries as they restrict users from exercising their rights to repair and modify their owned products.

Q: Can I remove the warranty void stickers without voiding my warranty? A: While warranty void stickers may intimidate users, they are often unenforceable. Manufacturers cannot legally void warranties solely based on the removal of these stickers.

Q: Are there any alternative graphics cards with better performance at a similar price range? A: Yes, there are several alternatives in the market that offer better performance and value for money compared to the RX 5700 XT XFX Thick Ultra. Some recommended options include the Sapphire Pulse, Gigabyte Gaming OC, and the PowerColor Red Devil.