Gainward 8600GT Goes Like Hell

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Cost

The 8600GT Golden Sample comes in at around £90 which is 5-10 pounds more expensive than most standard 8600GT cards; though it’s £5 cheaper than the XFX Fatal1ty.

Noise and Cooling

The cooling of the Gainward 8600GT is pretty impressive; in terms of temperatures. Idleing at around 45 degrees C and fully loading at 65c isn’t too bad. However, it pays the price in noise levels; this fan is a screamer. It’s not the loudest fan you’ll have ever heard, but it’s certainly irritating enough to put many off from having it blowing full tilt 24/7. My recommendation? If you’re going with this card, make sure to invest in a fan controller or aftermarket cooler.

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