Updated 29Jan2021
All of the cards listed below are fine and sufficient for good hashing/mining. But you want the best, right? Me too! Here are the qualities used to judge best cards, in this order:
Reputable manufacturer and warranty ➣ Aftermarket cooling type ➣ Less power consumption ➣ Less power connectors ➣ Form factor ➣ More fans ➣ OC benchmarks reports
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S Tier ✪✪✪✪ |
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A Tier ✪✪✪ |
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B Tier ✪✪ |
Some notes:
- It bears repeating, all of these cards are worthy miners. Subtle differences set them apart into different tiers.
- The MSI Ventus 3X is ranked SO much higher than the 2X model because, oddly, the 2X requires 2 x 8-pin connectors whereas the 3X only requires 1 x 8-pin connector. The 3X fans run SO much cooler, better, quieter.
- Models requiring only one 8-pin PCIe cable (a very good thing for multi-card rigs!): All of the S-tier, and all of the A-tier except for the Gigabyte Aorus Master (requires an 8-pin and a 6-pin).
- Particularly slim models: MSI Gaming Ventus (2 and 3X) and PNY Uprising.
- The EVGA FTW3 Ultra Gaming model is ranked so low because it runs 40 watts higher than ALL the other models. Additionally, it is a VERY THICK card, nearly 50% thicker than other models.
- The Gigabyte Eagle Windforce edition comes with inferior sleeve-bearing fans, whereas all other models use the far superior ball-bearing fans.