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MSI GeForce GTX 970 Review | 118 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£45
  • Avg. price in US: ~$55
  • VRAM: 4 GB
  • Memory bus width: 256 bit
  • Thermal Design Power (TDP): 148 W

MSI GeForce GTX 970 review. Compare 118 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among graphics cards and if it is worth buying.

4.2

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the graphics card's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best graphics cards on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.2

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
4.2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the graphics card's technical performance, covering key areas such as gaming and rendering performance, ray tracing, memory configuration, power efficiency, cooling, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare graphics cards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

44.0%

2.3

Performance

24.0%

3.7

Memory

12.0%

8.7

Power & Cooling

11.0%

5.6

Platform & Features

5.0%

6.9

Design

4.0%

7.7

Connectivity & Media

Poor
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the graphics card.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a graphics card performs in real use and how reliable it is in terms of performance, temperatures, noise, stability, and long-term ownership.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 6.4
    Gaming

    Score components:

    45.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    1.6

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 5.7
    Video editing

    Score components:

    35.0%

    7.0

    AV1 encode

    30.0%

    1.6

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    15.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 6.4
    1080p

    Score components:

    55.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    1.6

    VRAM

    10.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 6.1
    1440p

    Score components:

    50.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    30.0%

    1.6

    VRAM

    15.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 5.7
    4K

    Score components:

    40.0%

    ?

    Floating-point performance

    35.0%

    1.6

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £45

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The MSI GeForce GTX 970 is a Maxwell-architecture card featuring 1,664 CUDA cores and 4GB of GDDR5 memory on a 256-bit bus, with the Gaming Edition offering a factory-overclocked boost clock of 1,279 MHz and a base of 1,140 MHz. Built on a 28nm process with a 145W TDP, it requires one 8-pin and one 6-pin power connector and features MSI's Twin Frozr V cooling system with dual Torx fans that remain silent during low-load tasks. Main pros include its exceptional power efficiency, quiet operation under heavy gaming, and strong 1080p performance that remains viable for modern esports titles. However, the card is famously limited by a segmented VRAM configuration where only 3.5GB runs at full speed, leading to potential stuttering in high-demand scenarios, and it lacks a protective backplate on several retail models.

Technical Specifications of MSI GeForce GTX 970

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the graphics card's technical performance, covering key areas such as gaming and rendering performance, ray tracing, memory configuration, power efficiency, cooling, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare graphics cards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

44.0%

?

Performance

24.0%

?

Memory

12.0%

?

Power & Cooling

11.0%

?

Platform & Features

5.0%

?

Design

4.0%

?

Connectivity & Media

4.2
MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a technical score of 4.21 points, which is lower than that of 87.7% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the graphics card.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a graphics card performs in real use and how reliable it is in terms of performance, temperatures, noise, stability, and long-term ownership.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the graphics card.
When it matters: When you prefer a graphics card that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
1.0
MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 55.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the graphics card's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a graphics card that offers a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.2

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

5.9
MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.9 points, which is lower than 83.9% of products in this category.
3DMark Time Spy benchmark score
What it is: Benchmark result from 3DMark Time Spy, a synthetic DirectX 12 test often used as a quick gaming-performance reference.
When it matters: When you need a fast rough performance sort before digging into game-specific reviews and frame-rate data.

Importance: LOW

?
3DMark Port Royal score
What it is: Benchmark result from 3DMark Port Royal, a synthetic test focused on ray tracing performance.
When it matters: When ray tracing matters in the games you actually play and you want one quick way to separate stronger and weaker RT cards.

Importance: LOW

N/A
PassMark (G3D) result
What it is: Overall GPU performance score in PassMark G3D benchmark
When it matters: When you need one broad score to sort cards into rough performance tiers.

Importance: LOW

?
PassMark (DirectCompute) result
What it is: PassMark score for DirectCompute performance tests
When it matters: When compute workloads matter alongside gaming performance.

Importance: LOW

4,080 points
MSI GeForce GTX 970 scores 4080 points in PassMark DirectCompute, which is lower than 53.2% of graphics cards and equal to 1.1% of graphics cards.
Floating-point performance
What it is: Theoretical floating-point compute performance of the GPU.
When it matters: When rendering, AI, or heavy compute work needs strong single-precision throughput.

Importance: LOW

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VRAM
What it is: Total video memory available on the graphics card
When it matters: When you play at high settings, use texture mods, or work with large creative projects.

Importance: HIGH

4 GB
MSI GeForce GTX 970 has 4 GB of VRAM, which is less than 88% of graphics cards and equal to 6% of graphics cards.
Memory type
What it is: Type of graphics memory used (GDDR6, HBM2e, etc.)
When it matters: When memory technology is part of the buying decision because it affects bandwidth class, power use, and product positioning.

Importance: LOW

GDDR5
GDDR version
What it is: Generation of GDDR memory used by the graphics card.
When it matters: When you want to separate older memory generations from newer ones before comparing bandwidth, power behavior, and market tier.

Importance: LOW

?
Memory bus width
What it is: Width of the memory interface bus in bits
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance at higher resolutions, heavier texture settings, or ray-traced workloads that stress memory traffic.

Importance: HIGH

256 bit
MSI GeForce GTX 970 uses a 256 bit memory bus, which is wider than that of 49.5% of graphics cards and equal to that of 36.1% of graphics cards.
Maximum memory bandwidth
What it is: Maximum data transfer rate between GPU and its memory
When it matters: When 4K gaming, ray tracing, or creator work can choke a slower memory subsystem.

Importance: HIGH

224.4 GB/s
MSI GeForce GTX 970 reaches 224.4 GB/s memory bandwidth, which is lower than that of 83.5% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.2% of graphics cards.
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PCI Express (PCIe) version
What it is: Version of PCI Express interface supported
When it matters: When you are pairing the card with an older motherboard and want to avoid leaving bandwidth or future compatibility on the table.

Importance: LOW

3.0
MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports PCIe 3.0, which is older than on 77.6% of graphics cards and equal to 20.3% of graphics cards.
PCIe lanes
What it is: Number of PCI Express lanes used for communication
When it matters: When limited lane width could bottleneck the card in some systems.

Importance: LOW

x16
MSI GeForce GTX 970 uses x16 PCIe lanes, which is more than 31.5% of graphics cards and equal to 68.6% of graphics cards.
DirectX version
What it is: Highest supported DirectX API version
When it matters: When you play newer Windows games that depend on the latest graphics features.

Importance: LOW

?
Vulkan version
What it is: Highest supported Vulkan API version
When it matters: When modern games, emulators, or creative apps lean on Vulkan support.

Importance: LOW

1.4
MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports Vulkan 1.4, which is more advanced than on 26.6% of graphics cards and equal to 73.4% of graphics cards.
OpenGL version
What it is: Highest supported OpenGL API version
When it matters: When older games or pro apps still depend on OpenGL compatibility.

Importance: LOW

4.6
MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports OpenGL 4.6, which is more advanced than on 4.8% of graphics cards and equal to 95.2% of graphics cards.
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Max displays supported
What it is: Total number of external displays supported simultaneously
When it matters: When you run a multi-monitor desk for sim racing, trading, or editing.

Importance: LOW

4
MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports up to 4 displays, which is more than 7.8% of graphics cards and equal to 89.2% of graphics cards.
Max digital resolution
What it is: Maximum supported digital display resolution
When it matters: When you plan to drive 4K or 8K panels at their native resolution.

Importance: LOW

?
DisplayPort outputs
What it is: Number of DisplayPort video outputs
When it matters: When your setup needs several high-refresh monitors without adapters.

Importance: LOW

3
MSI GeForce GTX 970 offers 3 DisplayPort outputs, which is more than 20.9% of graphics cards and equal to 77.3% of graphics cards.
DisplayPort version
What it is: Version of DisplayPort standard supported
When it matters: When your monitor setup depends on newer DisplayPort features for higher refresh rates, higher resolution, or better cable flexibility.

Importance: LOW

1.2
MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports DisplayPort 1.2, which is older than on 93.6% of graphics cards and equal to 4.8% of graphics cards.
DisplayPort link rates
What it is: Supported data link rates for DisplayPort connections
When it matters: When you are pushing high resolution and refresh rate over DisplayPort.

Importance: LOW

?
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Thermal Design Power (TDP)
What it is: Typical power consumption under full load (TDP)
When it matters: When you need a realistic idea of power draw before choosing a PSU or case.

Importance: MEDIUM

148 W
MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a TDP of 148 W, which is lower than that of 75.5% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.1% of graphics cards.
Power consumption while under peak load
What it is: Peak power draw of the graphics card under maximum load.
When it matters: When transient-heavy gaming loads could stress your power supply.

Importance: LOW

?
Recommended PSU wattage
What it is: Recommended wattage of the system power supply
When it matters: When you are checking whether your current power supply is enough.

Importance: LOW

500 W
MSI GeForce GTX 970 recommends a 500 W PSU, which is lower than that of 76.2% of graphics cards and equal to that of 9.6% of graphics cards.
Board power limit
What it is: Maximum configurable power limit for the GPU board
When it matters: When you care about how far the card can be pushed through tuning or factory power settings.

Importance: LOW

148 W
MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a board power limit of 148 W, which is lower than that of 76% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.1% of graphics cards.
PCIe power spec
What it is: PCIe power delivery specification followed
When it matters: When you are checking whether the slot and external cables match the card's intended power-delivery standard.

Importance: LOW

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Size
What it is: Physical size of the GPU card
When it matters: When you need the card to fit a compact case without blocking nearby hardware.

Importance: LOW

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Length
What it is: Physical length of the GPU card
When it matters: When front radiators or drive cages leave only limited GPU clearance.

Importance: LOW

269 mm
MSI GeForce GTX 970 is 269 mm long, which is shorter than 58.1% of graphics cards and equal in length to 0.7% of graphics cards.
Height
What it is: Physical height of the GPU card
When it matters: When side panels, brackets, or tight case layouts reduce vertical clearance.

Importance: LOW

141 mm
MSI GeForce GTX 970 is 141 mm tall, which is taller than 83.1% of graphics cards and equal in height to 1% of graphics cards.
Slot width
What it is: Number of PCIe slots occupied by the card
When it matters: When you need room for another PCIe card or better airflow under the GPU.

Importance: LOW

2 slot/s
MSI GeForce GTX 970 occupies 2 slot/s, which is slimmer than 49.2% of graphics cards and equal in width to 47.3% of graphics cards.
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the graphics card
When it matters: When sag, bracket support, or shipping stress matters in your build.

Importance: LOW

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MSI GeForce GTX 970 vs the average graphics card

  • 23.1% lower PSU requirement
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (500 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.
    What it is: Recommended wattage of the system power supply
    When it matters: When you are checking whether your current power supply is enough.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (500 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.500 W vs 650 W
  • 31.2% lower TDP
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (148 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
    What it is: Typical power consumption under full load (TDP)
    When it matters: When you need a realistic idea of power draw before choosing a PSU or case.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (148 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.148 W vs 215 W
  • 2 more DVI outputs
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (2 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
    What it is: Number of DVI display outputs available
    When it matters: When you still use an older monitor that depends on DVI.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (2 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.2 vs 0
  • 11.78x cheaper
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 is cheaper than the average graphics card (£45 vs £530).
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 is cheaper than the average graphics card (£45 vs £530).£45 vs £530
  • 32.7% lower board power limit
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower board power limit than the average graphics card (148 W vs 220 W). The average graphics card has a board power limit of 220 W.
    What it is: Maximum configurable power limit for the GPU board
    When it matters: When you care about how far the card can be pushed through tuning or factory power settings.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower board power limit than the average graphics card (148 W vs 220 W). The average graphics card has a board power limit of 220 W.148 W vs 220 W
  • Supports multi-GPU linking
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
    What it is: Supports NVIDIA SLI or AMD CrossFire multi-GPU setup
    When it matters: When you still run legacy multi-GPU gaming or rendering workflows.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
  • 0.2% faster VRAM clock
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (1,753 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
    What it is: Speed at which the GPU memory operates
    When it matters: When you want more context on how quickly the card's VRAM can move data.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (1,753 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.1753 MHz vs 1750 MHz
  • Supports NVLink
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports NVLink, the average graphics card does not.
    What it is: Supports NVIDIA NVLink or bridge connection for multi-GPU setups
    When it matters: When a professional or niche multi-GPU workflow needs a bridge connection.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports NVLink, the average graphics card does not.
  • 0.2% faster VRAM clock
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (1,753 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
  • Supports multi-GPU linking
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
  • Supports NVLink
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports NVLink, the average graphics card does not.
  • 2 more DVI outputs
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (2 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
  • 23.1% lower PSU requirement
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (500 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.
  • 31.2% lower TDP
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (148 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
  • 32.7% lower board power limit
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower board power limit than the average graphics card (148 W vs 220 W). The average graphics card has a board power limit of 220 W.

Total
Overall
Memory
Platform & Features
Connectivity & Media
Power & Cooling
  • 52.9% lower boost clock speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,178 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.
  • 27 fewer compute units
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (13 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
  • 45.3% lower base clock speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,050 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.
  • 80 fewer TMUs
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (104 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
  • 64.4% lower pixel rate
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (58.8 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 165.2 GPixel/s.
  • 8 fewer ROPs
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer ROPs than the average graphics card (56 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.
  • 2,688 fewer FP32 units
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer FP32 units than the average graphics card (1,664 vs 4,352). The average graphics card has 4,352 FP32 units.
  • 8 GB less VRAM
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (4 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
  • 63.1% slower memory speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (7,012 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.
  • 49.9% lower memory bandwidth
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (224.4 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.
  • 94.5% smaller L2 cache
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer L2 cache than the average graphics card (1.8 MB vs 32 MB). The average graphics card has 32 MB L2 cache.
  • 62.5% smaller L1 cache
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer L1 cache than the average graphics card (48 vs 128). The average graphics card has 128 L1 cache.
  • 5.6x larger process node
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a higher process node than the average graphics card (28 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.
  • No DLSS support
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 does not support DLSS, the average graphics card does.
  • 9 older
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 was released earlier than the average graphics card (2,014 vs 2,023).
  • Older PCIe version
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).
  • No mesh shaders
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 does not support mesh shaders, the average graphics card does.
  • Older OpenCL version
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports an older OpenCL version than the average graphics card (1.2 vs 3.0).
  • No sampler feedback
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 does not support sampler feedback, the average graphics card does.
  • 30.8% larger GPU die
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a higher GPU die size than the average graphics card (398 mm² vs 304.25 mm²). The average graphics card has a GPU die size of 304.25 mm².
  • 76.3% fewer transistors
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer transistors than the average graphics card (5,200 million vs 21,900 million). The average graphics card has 21,900 million transistors.
  • No AV1 encoding
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No AV1 decoding
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 does not support AV1 decoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No DSC support
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 does not support DSC, the average graphics card does.
  • Older DisplayPort version
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports an older DisplayPort version than the average graphics card (1.2 vs 1.4a).
  • Older HDCP version
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 supports an older HDCP version than the average graphics card (2.2 vs 2.3).
  • Older NVDEC generation
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower NVDEC generation than the average graphics card (1 vs 6). The average graphics card offers NVDEC generation 6.
  • 1 fewer fans
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).
  • 5 °C lower thermal ceiling
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower thermal ceiling than the average graphics card (98 °C vs 93 °C). The average graphics card has a thermal ceiling of 93 °C.
  • No backplate
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 does not include a backplate, the average graphics card does.
  • No RGB lighting
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 does not include RGB lighting, the average graphics card does.
  • 14 mm higher card profile
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 is taller than the average graphics card (141 mm vs 127 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 127 mm.
  • 52.9% lower boost clock speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,178 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.
    What it is: Maximum boost frequency the GPU can reach under load
    When it matters: When you want a rough idea of peak advertised frequency, while knowing real sustained clocks still depend on cooling and power limits.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,178 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.1178 MHz vs 2500 MHz
  • 5.6x larger process node
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a higher process node than the average graphics card (28 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.
    What it is: Size of the manufacturing process in nanometers
    When it matters: When process node differences may affect power, heat, and overall efficiency.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a higher process node than the average graphics card (28 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.28 nm vs 5 nm
  • 27 fewer compute units
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (13 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
    What it is: Total number of shader multiprocessors or compute units
    When it matters: When you want a better sense of the GPU's overall parallel hardware resources before relying on game benchmarks alone.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (13 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.13 vs 40
  • 8 GB less VRAM
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (4 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
    What it is: Total video memory available on the graphics card
    When it matters: When you play at high settings, use texture mods, or work with large creative projects.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (4 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.4 GB vs 12 GB
  • 45.3% lower base clock speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,050 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.
    What it is: Base operating frequency of the GPU core under standard conditions
    When it matters: When you want to understand the card's guaranteed starting frequency instead of looking only at optimistic boost figures.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,050 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.1050 MHz vs 1920 MHz
  • 1 fewer fans
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).
    What it is: Total number of cooling fans
    When it matters: When you compare cooler designs and want one more clue about thermal potential.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (2 vs 3).2 vs 3
  • 63.1% slower memory speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (7,012 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.
    What it is: Effective memory data rate combining clock and bus width
    When it matters: When you compare how quickly each card can push data through its memory subsystem.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (7,012 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.7012 MHz vs 19000 MHz
  • 80 fewer TMUs
    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (104 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
    What it is: Total count of texture mapping units on the GPU
    When it matters: When texture-heavy gaming performance matters and you want extra hardware context behind texture-rate claims.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GTX 970 has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (104 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.104 vs 184
Total
Overall
Performance
Memory
Platform & Features
Connectivity & Media
Power & Cooling
Design

Graphic comparison of MSI GeForce GTX 970 and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about MSI GeForce GTX 970?

  • Excellent 1080p performance for its era and remains capable for budget 1080p gaming today
  • MSI Twin Frozr V cooler provides very quiet operation and remains 'virtually inaudible' under load
  • Exceptional thermal management, often keeping the GPU below 65°C during intensive tasks
  • High energy efficiency with relatively low power consumption for its performance class
  • Strong overclocking potential, with some users reaching over 1500 MHz on air cooling
  • Zero Frozr technology stops fans completely during idle or low-load states for silent operation
  • Solid build quality and an attractive red-and-black aesthetic typical of MSI's Gaming series

What customers dislike about MSI GeForce GTX 970?

  • Controversial VRAM configuration where only 3.5GB of the 4GB total runs at full speed, causing potential stuttering if the final 512MB is used
  • Lack of a backplate on several standard MSI Gaming 4G models, which can lead to PCB sag or exposed components
  • Limited display connectivity, specifically featuring only one DisplayPort, restricting multi-G-Sync monitor setups
  • Physical size is quite large and tall, which may cause clearance issues in smaller Mini-ITX cases
  • Older architecture lacks support for modern features like hardware ray tracing and DLSS
  • Some reports of coil whine issues, though less prevalent than on reference or competitor designs
  • Limited long-term 'future-proofing' as modern AAA titles often require more than 3.5GB of fast VRAM

Expert reviews

E
expertreviews.co.uk
23/11/2014
MSI GTX 970 Gaming 4G Review

The MSI GTX 970 Gaming 4G is a highly efficient, factory-overclocked graphics card that delivers strong performance for its price point. Built on Nvidia’s second-generation Maxwell architecture, the card operates at a base clock speed of 1,140MHz and a boost speed of 1,279MHz, outperforming the reference design while utilizing a generous 4GB of GDDR5 memory. In benchmark tests, it...Read more

K
kitguru.net
19/09/2014
MSI GTX 970 Gaming 4GGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. Review - KitGuru

The KitGuru review of the MSI GTX 970 Gaming 4G highly praises the graphics card, awarding it an impressive 9.5 out of 10 rating. Based on Nvidia's highly efficient 28nm Maxwell architecture (GM204 GPU), the card ships with a factory-overclocked core base clock of 1,140 MHz (up from the 1,050 MHz reference speed) and includes 4GB of GDDR5 memory pushing a bandwidth of 224 GB/s. The...Read more

G
guru3d.com
19/09/2014
MSI GeForce GTX 970 Gaming OC review

The MSI GeForce GTX 970 Gaming OC edition features the Maxwell-based GM204-200 GPU, boasting a factory-overclocked core frequency of 1140 MHz and a boost frequency of 1279 MHz. Built on a custom PCB with Military Class components, this model utilizes a twin power configuration consisting of one 6-pin and one 8-pin power feed to drive its 4 GB of graphics memory. The card relies...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
17/12/2014
MSI GeForce GTX 970 Gaming 4 GB Review Would you like me to look up performance metrics, overclocking results, or thermal data extracted directly from...

The TechPowerUp review of the MSI GeForce GTX 970 Gaming 4 GB ($350) highlights it as a quiet, power-efficient, and high-performance option based on the 28nm Maxwell architecture. Featuring an out-of-the-box factory overclock, the card boasts the TwinFrozr V cooler, which provides excellent thermal performance with a silent passive mode and nearly inaudible fans under full load. Key...Read more

V
vortez.net
14/12/2014
MSI GTX 970 GAMING 4G Review - Test Setup & Methodology

The MSI GTX 970 GAMING 4G graphics card is reviewed by Vortez as a superb, highly competitive hardware option that earns the site's Silver award. Tested on a high-end X99 test bench featuring an Intel Core i7-5960X processor, the card features a custom Twin Frozr V cooling system with aggressively angled Torx fans, a factory-overclocked Maxwell core running at 1140MHz, and premium...Read more

B
bit-tech.net
19/09/2014
Nvidia GeForce GTX 970Go to product viewer dialogue for this item. Review Roundup: feat. ASUS, EVGA and MSI

The MSI GeForce GTX 970 Gaming 4G is highlighted by bit-tech.net as the standout performer in its three-way graphics card roundup, offering excellent value at its reviewed price of £281.99. It features a customized 6 phase power delivery system built with Military Class 4 components, a factory-overclocked base clock of 1,140MHz (a 9% gain over stock), and a boost frequency of...Read more

V
vortez.net
14/12/2014
MSI GTX 970 GAMING 4G Review - First Look - Vortez

The MSI GTX 970 GAMING 4G features a red and black custom design driven by the Twin Frozr V cooling system, matching seamlessly with MSI's gaming ecosystem. Measuring 275mm long and 115mm wide, the card maintains a dual-slot footprint. Major pros highlighted in the review include the proprietary Torx fans, which are aggressively angled to maximize targeted airflow while maintaining...Read more

G
gamestar.de
19/09/2014
Nvidia Geforce GTX 970Go to product viewer dialogue for this item. - Viel günstiger und fast so schnell wie die GTX 980

The Nvidia Geforce GTX 970 is highlighted as a high-performance Maxwell-architecture graphics card that offers excellent value, positioning itself near the top-tier GTX 980 at a much lower retail price of around €330. Tested via the factory-overclocked MSI Geforce GTX 970 Gaming 4G variant, the card features 1,664 shader units, 104 texture units, 64 ROPs, and a 4.0 GB GDDR5 VRAM...Read more

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C
cowcotland.com
19/09/2014
Carte graphique MSI GTX 970 Twin Frozr V

The Cowcotland review of the MSI GTX 970 Twin Frozr V highlights a highly efficient, factory-overclocked card based on NVIDIA’s Maxwell architecture, featuring a 1140 MHz base/1279 MHz boost clock. It features the Twin Frozr V cooling system with dual 100mm Torx fans, offering excellent thermal performance and semi-passive, silent operation in a 26.5 cm dual-slot design. Key...Read more

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G
geeknetic.es
25/10/2014
MSI Geforce GTX 970 Gaming 4G - Geeknetic Si deseas complementar esta búsqueda con análisis en otros idiomas o comparar este modelo con otras variante...

summary of the review: Review Summary The MSI GeForce GTX 970 Gaming 4G is a highly efficient, custom-designed graphics card that features 1,664 CUDA cores, a turbo boost clock speed of 1,279 MHz, and 4GB of GDDR5 memory on a 256-bit bus. Based on Nvidia's Maxwell architecture, it incorporates advanced technologies like Dynamic Super Resolution (DSR) for 4K rendering on 1080p...Read more

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A
akihabarablues.com
30/03/2015
Análisis de la tarjeta gráfica MSI Geforce GTX 970 - Akihabara Blues

The Akihabarablues review describes the MSI GeForce GTX 970 as a high-performance, mid-range graphics card featuring exceptional thermal management and robust connectivity with support for four displays. It delivers strong gaming results in benchmarks and, while fully compatible with technologies like DirectX 12 and PhysX, the card is often limited by the 3.5GB/0.5GB split memory...Read more

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