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NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 Review | 118 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£45
VRAM: 4 GB
Memory bus width: 256 bit
Thermal Design Power (TDP): 145 W

NVIDIA 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.

4.7

Poor

4.2

Poor

9.1

Exceptional

3.3
Gaming
Score components:
45.0%
1.2
Floating-point performance
25.0%
1.6
VRAM
20.0%
?
Ray tracing cores / units
10.0%
7.6
PCI Express (PCIe) version
4.3
Video editing
Score components:
35.0%
7.0
AV1 encode
30.0%
1.6
VRAM
20.0%
1.2
Floating-point performance
15.0%
7.6
PCI Express (PCIe) version
2.6
1080p
Score components:
55.0%
1.2
Floating-point performance
25.0%
1.6
VRAM
10.0%
?
Ray tracing cores / units
10.0%
7.6
PCI Express (PCIe) version
2.7
1440p
Score components:
50.0%
1.2
Floating-point performance
30.0%
1.6
VRAM
15.0%
?
Ray tracing cores / units
5.0%
7.6
PCI Express (PCIe) version
3.0
4K
Score components:
40.0%
1.2
Floating-point performance
35.0%
1.6
VRAM
20.0%
?
Ray tracing cores / units
5.0%
7.6
PCI Express (PCIe) version

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Verdict

The Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 is a high-performance desktop graphics card based on the 28nm Maxwell architecture, featuring 1,664 CUDA cores, 104 texture mapping units, and a 145W–148W TDP. It typically operates with a base clock of 1050 MHz and a boost clock of 1178 MHz, offering 4 GB of GDDR5 memory on a 256-bit interface. Its primary pros include exceptional power efficiency for its era, strong 1080p gaming performance that often rivals previous flagship models, and support for modern features like DirectX 12 and HDMI 2.0 for 4K at 60Hz. However, its main con is a controversial memory design where only 3.5 GB of the VRAM runs at full speed while the final 0.5 GB operates at a significantly lower bandwidth, leading to potential stuttering in memory-intensive modern titles.

Technical Specifications of NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970

Overall score

4.7

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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.

Performance

2.4

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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

?

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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Memory

3.7

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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

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

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

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Platform & Features

6.2

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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

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

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

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

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Connectivity & Media

8.0

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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

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

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

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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Power & Cooling

7.1

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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

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

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

?

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

148 W

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Design

8.9

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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

?

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

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

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

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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NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 vs the average graphics card

Why is NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 better than the average graphics card?

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23.1% lower PSU requirement
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
32.6% lower TDP
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (145 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (145 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.145 W vs 215 W
16 mm lower card height
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 is shorter than the average graphics card (111 mm vs 127 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 127 mm.
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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 is shorter than the average graphics card (111 mm vs 127 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 127 mm.111 mm vs 127 mm
11.78x cheaper
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 is cheaper than the average graphics card (£45 vs £530).
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 is cheaper than the average graphics card (£45 vs £530).£45 vs £530
1 more DVI outputs
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.1 vs 0
14% higher user score
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a higher user score than the average graphics card (9.12 vs 8.000).
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.
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a higher user score than the average graphics card (9.12 vs 8.000).9.12 vs 8
Supports multi-GPU linking
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
0.2% faster VRAM clock
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
0.2% faster VRAM clock
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 supports multi-GPU linking, the average graphics card does not.
1 more DVI outputs
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
32.6% lower TDP
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (145 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
23.1% lower PSU requirement
NVIDIA 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.
16 mm lower card height
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 is shorter than the average graphics card (111 mm vs 127 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 127 mm.

Platform & Features

Connectivity & Media

Power & Cooling

Why is NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 worse than the average graphics card?

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52.9% lower boost clock speed
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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.
71.1% lower texture rate
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (109 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.
80 fewer TMUs
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (104 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
82.9% lower FP32 performance
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a lower FP32 performance than the average graphics card (3.9 TFLOPS vs 22.86 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP32 performance of 22.86 TFLOPS.
8 fewer ROPs
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has fewer ROPs than the average graphics card (56 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.
83% lower compute throughput
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a lower compute throughput than the average graphics card (3.9 TFLOPS vs 23.105 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has compute throughput of 23.105 TFLOPS.
2,688 fewer FP32 units
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (4 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
63.2% slower memory speed
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (7,000 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.
50% lower memory bandwidth
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a lower memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (224 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.
94.5% smaller L2 cache
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 does not support DLSS, the average graphics card does.
No ray tracing
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 does not support ray tracing, the average graphics card does.
9 older
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 was released earlier than the average graphics card (2,014 vs 2,023).
Older PCIe version
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).
No AI upscalers
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 does not support AI upscalers, the average graphics card does.
No XeSS support
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 does not support XeSS, the average graphics card does.
No mesh shaders
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 does not support mesh shaders, the average graphics card does.
No DirectStorage support
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 does not support DirectStorage, the average graphics card does.
Older encoder generation
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 uses an older encoder generation than the average graphics card (3 vs 8). The average graphics card uses encoder generation 8.
No sampler feedback
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 does not support sampler feedback, the average graphics card does.
30.8% larger GPU die
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.
No AV1 decoding
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 does not support AV1 decoding, the average graphics card does.
No DSC support
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 does not support DSC, the average graphics card does.
Older DisplayPort version
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 supports an older DisplayPort version than the average graphics card (1.2 vs 1.4a).
Older HDMI version
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 supports an older HDMI version than the average graphics card (2 vs 2.1).
3 fewer monitors per output type
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 supports fewer monitors per output type than the average graphics card (1 vs 4). The average graphics card supports 4 monitors per output type.
Older HDCP version
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 supports an older HDCP version than the average graphics card (2.2 vs 2.3).
Lower display resolution
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 supports a lower maximum digital resolution than the average graphics card (4096x2160 vs 7680x4320). The average graphics card supports a maximum digital resolution of 7680x4320.
2 fewer fans
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (1 vs 3).
5 °C lower thermal ceiling
NVIDIA 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 RGB lighting
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 does not include RGB lighting, the average graphics card does.
52.9% lower boost clock speed
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
2 fewer fans
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (1 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (1 vs 3).1 vs 3
8 GB less VRAM
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
NVIDIA 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
71.1% lower texture rate
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (109 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.
What it is: Number of textured pixels the GPU can process per second
When it matters: When fast texture handling matters in high-refresh gaming workloads.
Importance: HIGH
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (109 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.109 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s
63.2% slower memory speed
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (7,000 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (7,000 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.7000 MHz vs 19000 MHz

Platform & Features

Connectivity & Media

Power & Cooling

Graphic comparison of NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970?

Remains a highly cost-effective option for budget 1080p gaming in 2026, often found for under $50 USD on sites like eBay.
Efficient Maxwell architecture results in lower power consumption and heat output compared to older flagship cards.
Excellent overclocking potential allows many models to approach the performance of a stock GTX 980.
Reliable for eSports titles like Fortnite, Counter-Strike, and Valorant, where it can still maintain high frame rates.
Known for quiet operation, with many partner models from ASUS and MSI featuring passive cooling during low loads.

What customers dislike about NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970?

Controversial 3.5GB + 0.5GB VRAM configuration causes performance stutters in modern games that exceed the initial 3.5GB limit.
Lacks modern features such as hardware-based Ray Tracing and DLSS, making it struggle with new AAA releases like Cyberpunk 2077 or Starfield.
Recent reports indicate that older units may suffer from fan failure or require thermal paste replacement after a decade of use.
Some older variants are prone to audible coil whine under heavy load.
Limited longevity for upcoming titles due to the aging 28nm architecture and lack of driver optimisations for new APIs.

Expert reviews

technuovo.com

29/10/2024

Can A GTX970Go to product viewer dialogue for this item. Keep Up With Modern Games In 2024? Digital Foundry +8

The MSI GTX 970 remains a surprisingly capable budget option for 1080p gaming, successfully launching and running almost every modern 2024 title tested. On the positive side, esports and well-optimized titles perform exceptionally well on medium settings; Counter-Strike 2 achieves an average of 147 FPS, Overwatch 2 climbs to 140 FPS, and FC25 maintains a locked 60 FPS. Even...Read more

gamesradar.com

16/04/2024

I bought this Nvidia GTX 970 graphics card 10 years ago, here's how it holds up in 2024

Nvidia GTX 970 Performance Ten years after its 2014 launch, the Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 remains a surprisingly capable budget contender for patient gamers willing to sacrifice visual fidelity. When tested at 1080p resolution with low graphical settings, the legacy card achieved respectable frame rates across several modern titles, averaging 95 fps in Total War: Warhammer 3, 85 fps in...Read more

techspot.com

09/04/2019

Five Years Later: Revisiting the GeForce GTX 970

A TechSpot re-review five years post-launch reveals that the performance gap between the Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 and AMD Radeon R9 290 has closed, with both cards offering viable 1080p gaming performance. The GTX 970 boasts superior power efficiency and lower temperatures, but is hindered by its infamous 3.5GB memory configuration. Conversely, the R9 290’s full 4GB VRAM and wider bus...Read more

trustedreviews.com

17/03/2015

Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 – Performance Analysis and Verdict

The Trusted Reviews analysis identifies the Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 as a premier graphics card for 1080p and 1440p gaming, praised for its Maxwell architecture, which offers high speed and excellent energy efficiency. Key advantages include cool, quiet operation and superior performance over the AMD Radeon R9 290 in demanding titles. Despite its strengths, the review notes the card...Read more

kitguru.net

19/09/2014

MSI GTX 970 Gaming 4G Review

The MSI GTX 970 Gaming 4G review by KitGuru awards the graphics card an impressive 9.5 out of 10 rating, highly praising its performance and architectural efficiency. Built on Nvidia's 28nm Maxwell architecture, this modified card features 1,664 CUDA cores and is factory overclocked to a base clock of 1,140MHz, up from the reference 1,050MHz. It includes 4GB of GDDR5 memory running...Read more

bit-tech.net

19/09/2014

Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 Review Roundup: feat. ASUS, EVGA and MSI

The bit-tech review evaluates Nvidia's Maxwell-based GeForce GTX 970 through three highly-customised partner boards: the ASUS Strix, EVGA Superclocked (SC) ACX2, and MSI Gaming 4G. Priced starting at a competitive £259 inc VAT, the GTX 970 features a cut-down version of the GM204 GPU found in the flagship GTX 980. It retains a full 4GB GDDR5 frame buffer and a 256-bit bus, using...Read more

tomshardware.com

19/09/2014

Gigabyte GeForce GTX 970 WindForce OC - Tom's Hardware Would you like a comparison of modern performance benchmarks or more details on the VRAM specif...

The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 970 WindForce OC is evaluated as a highly appealing, value-focused graphics card that utilizes graphics processing units (GPUs) specifically binned for enhanced overclocking potential and lower power consumption. It features an updated, thin WindForce cooler equipped with advanced rotor blades that efficiently direct waste heat vertically away from storage...Read more

techpowerup.com

18/09/2014

NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 SLIGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. Review

The TechPowerUp review of the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 SLI highlights a compelling, high-value, multi-GPU configuration that delivers exceptional performance scaling (often exceeding 70%) in demanding titles, making 4K gaming more accessible. Priced at a combined $660 at launch, this setup outperforms flagship cards like the GTX 780 Ti, supported by an efficient 155W TDP per card that...Read more

digitalfoundry.net

18/10/2015

Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 Revisited | Digital Foundry

The Digital Foundry article by Richard Leadbetter re-evaluates the Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 following a class-action lawsuit regarding its controversial segmented memory configuration. While advertised as a standard 4GB card, it actually features 3.5GB of high-speed GDDR5 RAM running at 196GB/s and a slower 512MB partition running at a drastically reduced 28GB/s. Testing customized...Read more

expertreviews.co.uk

27/03/2015

Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 review

The Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 is a highly capable graphics card, delivering robust performance for the vast majority of mainstream gaming setups. The underlying GM204 Maxwell architecture gives the card exceptional power efficiency, requiring only 145W during demanding gameplay. Third-party variations like the Asus STRIX and Zotac AMP! Extreme offer aggressive factory overclocks that...Read more

techpowerup.com

18/09/2014

EVGA GTX 970 SC ACX 4 GBGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. Review

The TechPowerUp review of the EVGA GTX 970 SuperClocked ACX highlights a fast, factory-overclocked card based on NVIDIA’s efficient Maxwell architecture, capable of high-performance gaming at resolutions up to 2560x1600. Key pros include high power efficiency, significant overclocking headroom, and versatile display output options. Conversely, the review notes significant cons,...Read more

techpowerup.com

18/09/2014

ASUS Strix GTX 970 OC 4 GB Review

The TechPowerUp review of the ASUS GTX 970 Strix OC highlights a highly efficient, factory-overclocked card offering excellent 1440p gaming value at $350. Key pros include the silent, semi-passive DirectCU II cooler, a robust backplate, and HDMI 2.0 support. Cons include a lack of factory-overclocked memory and a modest 2% performance gain over reference cards, with power...Read more

techpowerup.com

17/12/2014

MSI GeForce GTX 970 Gaming 4 GB Review

The TechPowerUp review highlights the MSI GeForce GTX 970 Gaming as a highly efficient, factory-overclocked card, delivering exceptional 1080p/1440p performance and superior energy efficiency. Its standout TwinFrozr cooler offers nearly silent operation through a passive fan profile, alongside excellent manual overclocking capabilities. Key cons include the lack of a protective...Read more

tomshardware.com

19/09/2014

Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 And 980 Review: Maximum Maxwell

The Nvidia GeForce GTX 980 and 970 review introduces the performance-oriented 28nm "GM204" Maxwell architecture, scaling up the historic energy efficiency seen in previous entry-level cards to enthusiast-grade gaming rigs. The flagship GTX 980 features 2,048 CUDA cores, 64 ROPs, and a 165W TDP, while the highly cost-effective GTX 970 delivers 1,664 CUDA cores at an even lower 145W...Read more

digitalfoundry.net

18/10/2014

Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 review - Digital Foundry(anandtech.com) | 26 September 2014 | The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 Review: Featuring EVGA

The Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 is described as a "genuine game-changer" that disrupted the high-end GPU market by offering exceptional performance at a mid-range price of £260. Based on the Maxwell architecture, it delivers a high performance-per-pound ratio, rendering competing cards like AMD’s R9 290 and 290X—and even Nvidia’s own GTX 780—effectively obsolete due to its superior...Read more

hardwareluxx.de

29/11/2015

Gigabyte GeForce GTX 970 Xtreme Gaming im Test

for the Gigabyte GeForce GTX 970 Xtreme Gaming graphics card: Review Summary The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 970 Xtreme Gaming is a highly premium, factory-overclocked take on NVIDIA’s Maxwell-based GM204 GPU, targeted at demanding mid-range setups. Gigabyte significantly pushes the performance envelope by raising the base clock from the stock 1,050 MHz to 1,190 MHz, and the boost clock...Read more

tomshardware.fr

14/09/2019

GeForce GTX 980 et GeForce GTX 970 : les Maxwell pour joueurs arrivent

The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980 and GTX 970 mark the arrival of the Maxwell architecture for high-end gamers, delivering an exceptional performance-per-watt ratio by dynamically adapting power consumption to real-time workload fluctuations. The GTX 980 features a fully enabled GM204 core with 2,048 CUDA cores, 64 ROPs, and clock speeds of 1126/1216 MHz, whereas the more affordable GTX...Read more

noticias3d.com

03/07/2021

GeForce GTX 970Go to product viewer dialog for this item. frente a GTX 1650 con GDDR6 en 2021

Performance Comparison Summary The GeForce GTX 1650 (GDDR6 variant) generally outperforms the GeForce GTX 970 due to architectural advancements and superior driver support. On average, the GTX 1650 achieves 60 FPS with a 38 FPS minimum, compared to the GTX 970's 54 FPS average and 31 FPS minimum. While both graphics cards deliver similar results in titles like Hitman 3 and...Read more

geeknetic.es

25/10/2014

MSI Geforce GTX 970 Gaming 4G [Análisis Completo en Español]

This review evaluates the MSI GeForce GTX 970 Gaming 4G graphics card, highlighting its strong focus on power efficiency and high potential for overclocking. The card is built on Nvidia's Maxwell architecture, featuring 1,644 CUDA cores and 4GB of GDDR5 memory with a 256-bit bus. While its baseline performance is noted as good but not extraordinary compared to older rivals, the...Read more

tomshw.it

05/11/2014

Recensione Zotac GeForce GTX 970 AMP! Omega Edition

The Tom's Hardware Italia review highlights the Zotac GeForce GTX 970 AMP! Omega Edition as a highly customised, factory-overclocked graphics card that delivers top-tier performance for its price point. Built on Nvidia’s efficient 28nm Maxwell architecture (specifically the GM204 GPU), the card features 1,664 CUDA cores and 4 GB of GDDR5 memory. Zotac pushes performance beyond the...Read more

hwupgrade.it

12/12/2014

3 schede GeForce GTX 970 a confronto: Gigabyte Inno3D e MSI

This Hardware Upgrade Review compares three factory-overclocked NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 graphics cards equipped with custom cooling systems: the Gigabyte G1 Gaming, Inno3D iChill Ultra, and MSI Gaming 4G. The evaluation focuses tightly on how their unique technical designs influence power consumption, thermal efficiency, and acoustic performance. The MSI Gaming 4G stands out for its...Read more

tomshw.it

22/09/2014

GeForce GTX 980 e GeForce GTX 970: prestazioni delle top di gamma Nvidia

The GeForce GTX 980 and GTX 970 introduce Nvidia’s Maxwell architecture (GM204 GPU) to the high-end desktop market, prioritizing exceptional energy efficiency and performance-per-watt inherited from mobile SoC advancements. Built on a 28nm process, the flagship GTX 980 features 2048 CUDA core, 128 texture units, and clocks in at 1126 MHz (1216 MHz Boost), while the scaled-down GTX...Read more

hwupgrade.it

29/09/2014

Asus GeForce GTX 970 Strix: Maxwell alla seconda prova

The Asus GeForce GTX 970 Strix is a highly efficient graphics card based on NVIDIA’s Maxwell architecture (GM204 GPU). It features 1,664 CUDA cores and comes factory-overclocked by approximately 6% compared to the reference design, delivering a notable performance boost. In benchmark tests, the card proves to be roughly 33% faster than the previous-generation GeForce GTX 770. It...Read more

nexthardware.com

30/09/2014

GIGABYTE GTX 970 G1 Gaming | Recensione - Nexthardware

The NextHardware review highlights the Gigabyte GTX 970 G1 Gaming as a highly capable, factory-overclocked card based on the 28nm Maxwell GM204 architecture, featuring a robust 6 phase power design and 4GB of GDDR5 memory. It features a customized PCB, a rigid backplate, and the WindForce 3X cooler, which delivers excellent thermal performance with a 1178 MHz base clock. Key...Read more

tweakers.net

07/10/2014

Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 Round-up: vier zuinige Maxwells vergeleken

This review provides a comprehensive breakdown of four Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 aftermarket graphics cards—the Asus Strix, EVGA Superclocked ACX 2.0, Gigabyte G1 Gaming, and MSI Gaming 4G—tested on an Intel Core i7-4960X testbed running Windows 8.1. Built on the energy-efficient 28nm Maxwell architecture with 1,664 Cuda cores and 4GB of GDDR5 memory, these GPUs were evaluated to see...Read more

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