Verdict and Conclusion

I really like the fact that this card offers great bang for the buck performance. You get the same settings and details that are on top of the line cards, but without spending the money to get the huge framerates.

This card would be perfect to me if it wasn't for a couple of flaws. One of which is the fact that the heatsink is mediocre at best. Once you actually start pushing the card temperatures skyrocket to over 100*C. If you want to keep your card at stock clocks you will be fine, but if you want to push the card to its limits you will need to pony up and buy an aftermarket heatsink.

The other downside I see is that his card is about $100 more than the 7850. You are paying about $350 for a 7870 compared to $250 on the 7850. To me, the performance to price difference isn't there. If the 7870 was dropped to about $300-325 it would not be off too much. But as-is it needs a pricedrop.

On the plus side the fact that this card has voltage control instantly makes me love it. For people like me who like to benchmark cards it is a godsend.

Performance is great and you can max games out without spending top dollar for a video card.

Currently this card goes for around $350. While I cannot find this exact model available, very similar HIS cards go for that price. But if you plan on overclocking to the cards limits look to spend an extra $50 for a better heatsink.

Final words.

The HIS Radeon 7870 hits a nice bang for the buck mark even if the price could be a little lower. Overclocking is good, but the card could be so much better with a proper heatsink. Overall I love the Radeon 7870 and suggest it if you want to max out your games without breaking the bank, but still want added performance over something like a 7850.

Good:

• Case-Sticker (I'm a sucker for them)
• Quiet
• Solid overclocking
• Hangs with high-end cards
• Voltage Control

Bad:

• Could be a little cheaper
• Mediocre heatsink

SCORE
8.4/10

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